Making and Tinkering with STEM: Solving Design Challenges with Young Children, Second Edition
Format:Paperback
Publisher:National Association for the Education of Young Children
Publishing:8th Jan '26
£22.99
This title is due to be published on 8th January, and will be despatched as soon as possible.
Picture Books + Problem Solving = Joyful STEM Learning
What could you create with a cardboard box? Can you build a troll-proof bridge for the three billy goats to cross? How might you change what your shadow looks like?
In the first edition of this bestselling book, author Cate Heroman made teaching and learning science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) concepts more accessible and fun through the maker movement—a hands-on learning approach rooted in designing, building, and inventing things. Using picture books as the springboard, teachers challenge and delight children by inviting them to use everyday materials and tools to create solutions to problems faced by book characters.
This updated and expanded second edition features
- A collection of 35 design challenges appropriate for children ages 3 through 8, including revised favorites and all-new additions
- A list of 140 picture books that encourage STEM-rich exploration and reflect the diverse experiences, interests, and identities of young children
- More foundational information for educators, including clearer connections among tinkering, making, and engineering; updated language that reflects current thinking about how children learn; and guidance on how to observe, document, and assess children’s learning during these experiences
- A planning template to create your own design challenges (available online)
With this practical resource, you can build on the curiosity and creativity inherent in young children’s play to nurture meaningful STEM exploration and learning.
Grounded in current research and knowledge of child development, learning science, and motivation, Making and Tinkering with STEM offers field-tested design challenges linked with high-quality children’s books to spark children’s imaginations and tinkering skills. This must-have resource for anyone working with young children invites teachers and caregivers to step into children’s play—not only to deepen children’s learning, but also to rediscover their own joy of discovery. —Jennifer Baumgartner, Professor of Early Childhood Education, Louisiana State University
As someone who had the immense honor of piloting many of the design challenges in this book, my biggest takeaway is that tinkering is a place where everyone belongs. This book inspires deep critical thinking without any barriers. Above all else, it shows children the immense power they have when they combine their hands and their brains. —Kylie Altier, First Grade Teacher, McKinley Elementary School, and 2024 Louisiana State Teacher of the Year
This inspiring book grounds STEM in developmentally appropriate practice and a deep knowledge of children. It offers invaluable guidance on creating an environment that supports playful learning, integrating the arts and literacy, and making every design challenge appropriate for children ages 3 to 8. —Diane Trister Dodge, Early Childhood Educator and Founder, Teaching Strategies
Brilliant descriptions of STEM in action with young children entice readers to jump in with both feet. The design challenges illustrate rich learning experiences for every child, inspiring endless possibilities! Cate’s passion as a lifelong tinkerer shines through. —Monica McCarthy-Aton, Program Manager, Partnership for Children of Lincoln and Gaston Counties
ISBN: 9781952331428
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: unknown
176 pages
2nd New edition