First, you may be wondering, “What is a STEAM camp?” STEM is an acronym that is used to describe science, technology, engineering, and math. These four fields share an emphasis on innovation, problem-solving, and critical thinking—all important skills for kids to practice in their day-to-day lives! Recently, the National Bureau of Economic Research found that there is a growing demand within these fields for people with soft skills, such as teamwork, creativity, cooperation and adaptation to change. As a result, education professionals have developed the acronym STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) to include the important creative and soft skills of the arts.

So, why is it important for kids to participate in summer camps and after-school programs that place an emphasis on STEAM? STEAM camps help curious and creative learner develop skills like:

• Taking thoughtful risks
• Becoming resilient problem solvers
• Working through the creative process
• Embracing and appreciating collaboration

Learning these skills at an early age helps to prepare kids for challenges they may face later in life. At its core, STEAM learning is interdisciplinary. Not only is this approach more reflective of how these disciplines interact in real life, but also of how the STEAM fields work in real life—preparing children for what will be expected of them once they graduate school.

Now, if you’re looking at your 5-year-old and wondering how they can already be preparing to graduate already, you’re not alone! It may seem far away but beginning to build these essential skills now is what benefits children later as they grow. Even better, the STEAM camps listed on Blueprint4’s search platform engage kids in a fun, hands-on way that builds confidence and self-esteem.

Do you think your child could benefit from a STEAM education? Check out some of the many programs we have listed and find the perfect fit for your child!