5 ways to spark your child’s interest in STEM

(StatePoint) 3M Sponsored Content.
The past year has revealed many things, and among them is the extent to which we rely on science to solve problems that impact our everyday lives. Scientists everywhere are making science cool and are an inspiration to kids. Children represent the future and are tomorrow’s scientists, so it’s in all our interests that they develop a love of science.
As kids continue to learn virtually, however, the lack of connection to their teachers and peers can make it challenging for parents to find new and exciting ways to keep kids engaged.
These challenges come at a time when it’s never been more important to encourage kids to lean-in to science. According to an independent research study, the 3M State of Science Index, 74% of people are more inclined to believe that the world needs more people to pursue STEM-related careers to benefit our future society.
To get there, kids need a strong STEM foundation. Here are five tips to help you inspire initial interest in science in your children that can bloom right in your own home:
One opportunity on the horizon is the 3M Young Scientist Challenge, held in partnership with Discovery Education, a premier national science competition for grades 5 through 8 that asks students to identify a problem impacting their school, community, or worldwide, and come up with a unique innovation to solve it. Young inventors have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work one-on-one with a 3M scientist, compete for $25,000, and earn the title of “America’s Top Young Scientist.”
Last year’s winner, Anika Chebrolu, 14, collaborated with nine other finalists to solve problems collectively in a series of fun, group challenges as part of the competition. Anika’s individual innovation used molecular research to show how science could reduce the invasion and spread of COVID-19 in the body.
Encourage your budding scientist to get involved and start exploring! To learn more about this year’s competition or to enter, visit www.youngscientistlab.com.
The next big invention or discovery could be anywhere. Ignite that spark of passion for science and unleash your child’s curiosity.