Mobile apps can be a great tool to help kids get more exposure to STEM concepts. When choosing one to download, it’s important to think about your goals. Does your child need help mastering math facts? Or were you looking for a fun intro to coding concepts? There’s an app for each of these things!
Other STEM apps, such as the ones offering virtual construction and physics concepts, do come with their pros and cons. Yes, hands-on is always the ideal, but there’s still some benefit in working with these apps.
STEM apps give kids a chance to get comfortable with using technology tools to solve problems and as a creative outlet. Not to mention, getting exposure and practice through a different means can only help young learners connect the dots and broaden their understanding of STEM concepts. This can help them master STEM concepts in school, and is one step toward preparing them for the jobs of the future.
“People will create the jobs of the future, not simply train for them, and technology is already central,” says Jonathan Gruden, Principal Researcher at Microsoft, in a Pew Research report, “The Future of Jobs and Jobs Training.” “It will undoubtedly play a greater role in the years ahead.”
Here are 5 kid-tested, parent-approved STEM apps that are worth a download.
Bedtime Math: How many LEGO Bricks would it take to build your house? At last, an app that knows the questions your kids ask, and it helps you discover the answers together using real-life math. In fact, that’s the premise: If kids learn to love numbers, “they can handle the math in real life.” We love how the concept reminds us the importance of a well-rounded education. We’re pretty good at remembering to sit down and read a bedtime story. But do we sit down for a session of bedtime math?
Block Craft 3-D: City Designs: This building simulator is a great companion to any LEGO Bricks-crazed student. There’s no cost, and no zombies, just a blank slate to create cities, neighborhoods and worlds from digital blocks, and create an avatar they can move around these virtual worlds. Plus, they can visit other players’ creations for ideas and inspiration. It’s a great tool for kids to unleash their inner architects!
Simple Machines: Kids will love the quirky and fantastical characters they maneuver around the stylized, dreamy landscape. Parents will cheer for the pleasantly muted mechanical sounds. But best of all, this game lets kids manipulate simple machines, wheels, pulleys and levers, to discover how their forces can be worked and manipulated to successfully complete a task. It’s a fun introduction to physics concepts. If kids get stuck, ask questions to help them get to the next step. Bonus: You can download a free handbook from the Simple Machines website!
Trainyard: The premise of the game — get the train to the station — is deceptively simple, but it lets them flex their strategic thinking muscles. As they progress through the levels, the challenges get trickier. For a chance to create your own puzzles, download Trainyard Express.
Kodable: Taught by lovable furry alien avatars, kids from ages 5-10 can get their first taste of computer programming. With dozens of lessons, video tutorials, challenges and the ability to level up, this teaching game covers JavaScript to problem solving. Kids can work independently or learn alongside siblings and parents.
Of course, everyone who spends time with kids knows how much they treasure their screen time, so you can’t go wrong by experimenting with some of these great apps that give kids some free-time practice with science, technology, engineering and math.
For more hands-on STEM fun and learning for your kids, discover the cool camps, classes and after-school sessions taking place right in your community from Bricks 4 Kidz.