CHOOSING STEM: AN ESSENTIAL GUIDE FOR PARENTS

Malcolm X, a prominent black Muslim leader and civil rights activist said as I quote, ‘Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for the future’. This is all we need to understand. STEM is not just a geeky interest in the subject; it is literally the future in which us and our generations are going to live in. In this era of smartphones, innumerable social websites & apps, and more importantly Artificial Intelligence, it can be a bit overwhelming to choose the right path for children. Press enter or click to view image in full size

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF STEM

STEM education is a diverse, heterogenous idea; it is technical, creative, and life-changing. It cultivates problem-solving and critical thinking. It builds a challenge for students to have concrete knowledge about their field, to manage and execute projects. For example, in school we sit through the monotonous lectures of geometry and are forced to make shapes. However, STEM makes it interesting. It takes you hands-on, minds-on. It teaches you geometry through a multidimensional level because it is not just feeding you a lecture but actually going deeper to unmask your curiosity at an intrinsic level. STEM is everywhere. From using smartphones (technology) to using math in baking, science is all around.

The world has evolved rapidly in the past 50 years, which is why we need to train ourselves and our kids as such. Here’s the gist.

1. STEM promotes logical and analytical thinking.
2. Conducting experiments.
3. Increasing resilience and problem-solving.
4. Teaches literacy, life, and learning skills.
5. Promoting tech-driven careers.

WHY SHOULD PARENTS HAVE AN INVOLVEMENT IN STEM?

When you are focused on your child’s education and career, it means that you care about how they carry themselves in the world. Their learning experience starts from you. You as a parent, are the first teacher, first role model. They get their first influence, life lessons, and basic knowledge from you. They value the life advice coming from you and hold your opinion on a pedestal.

When your child succeeds in STEM; building their first software program or treating a genetic disease, the first impact in the back of their minds comes from you. Having parents learn about STEM and be more invested in their child’s STEM learning, will increase their ability and drive to learn.

HOW TO ENGAGE YOUR CHILD IN STEM?

There are endless possibilities for your child to get their STEM education; your home, their school, obviously the online academies specifically for STEM, and your local community.

AT HOME.

• Explore your child’s interests, no matter how different they might be from your preferences. Give them a chance to explore and discover. • Ask them questions. • Answer their questions. • Talk to them about their topic of interest.

AT SCHOOL.

• Keep a close eye on your child’s grades in STEM subjects. • Get more involved in your meetings with their teacher. • Encourage your child to pay attention in STEM.

THE INTERNET.

• Scour the educational websites. There is a variety out there.; code.org, SCRATCH, and KHAN ACADEMY. • You as a parent or a student can take a free STEM session in order to explore what sort of learning pathway you could opt for your children. • Choose an age-appropriate website. • Balance their online & offline learning.

YOUR COMMUNITY.

• Take them outside. • Get more in tune with your surroundings. • Show them real life examples of STEM, such as the cars being designed by engineers or the genetically modified food that we consume. • Ask them ‘what do you think?’ • Give their opinions importance and relevance. • The STEM Educators are working to empower students and parents alike. Their online community is giving hands-on experience to teach children the skills of moving along the ever-changing world. You find them and connect through WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

TIPS FOR PARENTS.

1. Explore your child’s interests; school and home. See which subject they excel on or need improvement. Check out their school’s STEM programs or activities.
2. Be supportive. Children are naturally curious creatures. They want to know the ‘why’ of everything that they come across. Converse with them, learn with them; even if it is just about a ladybird.
3. Get extra coaching for your child if necessary.
4. Help your children develop a positive, growing mindset. Set them up for victories but also prepare them for loss.
5. Believe in your children and encourage them to have confidence in themselves.

AN ADVICE FROM A FELLOW PARENT FROM OUR COMMUNITY MEMBER

Mubasher Pasha is a professor with a background in Computer Science. Along with his teaching background, he is also dedicated in promoting STEM among children, and promoting the right pathway for them to induce progress. His motto is quite simple, ‘Parents should and need to get involved in their children’s education’. Because of his esteem in teaching and mentoring, he was invited on The STEM Educator’s podcast to share his views and give advice to fellow parents.

Parents, guardians, caregivers, we all have our strengths. Suppose you excel at cooking and baking. It might not seem fashionable but it’s a life skill, and it’s your strength. Transfer your strong suits to your children. Why should we do that? Because you are the version 1.0, and your children are the updated version. They should be your better version.

Mr. Pasha believes that the first thing you can do, the first step, is to bring discovery and exposure in their life. According to him, you can help them by introducing a concept to them whether it be an art subject, science subject or any other according to the kids’ interests. If they lean towards it, show interest, and are curious about it then you can encourage your child to pursue it.

Furthermore into the discussion, he accentuated the following points.

1. Give your child exposure. From house chores, to reading and writing, to computer skills.
2. Then observe their interests, their passion.
3. Suppose, they want to learn about genetic engineering or social media marketing. Get your information on it. Find the courses being taught at various institutions.
4. When you find the appropriate course, contact that organization. Ask for their curriculum. Talk to them about your expectations. Then consider if you would want to move forward with it.
5. Take your child’s opinion. Their outlook matters. Moreover, it has a positive effect on their personality.
6. Last but not the least, his discussion comes down to one thing: a parent has to get involved in their child’s education.

CONCLUSION

Give your child the opportunity to daydream and promote their creativity, whether it be robotics, AI, gaming, programming, and graphic designing. Teach problem-solving early on. Promote a healthy mindset. Choose a STEM pathway for your child, which increases their aptitude, talent, and ambition.