Technology beyond screens
Technology in early years is not simply about digital devices. It is about understanding how people use ideas and tools to solve problems.
One way to show children the power of technology is to introduce biomimicry, the concept of learning from nature. Children are fascinated to discover that beaver dams can inspire reservoirs, sycamore seeds influenced helicopter designs, and whales helped engineers think about submarines. These examples demonstrate that creative thinking often begins with careful observation of the natural world.
Engineering through play
Engineering is one of the easiest STEM areas to develop outdoors because most children naturally enjoy building and creating. Open-ended resources such as sticks, logs, crates and recycled materials provide endless possibilities. Children might build bridges for insects to cross water, create dens, construct habitats for wildlife or work together to solve building challenges. As they test ideas, adapt designs and overcome setbacks, they develop problem-solving skills and learn the value of perseverance.
Bringing maths to life
Outdoor environments create authentic opportunities for mathematical thinking. Rather than completing set tasks, children use maths for a purpose. They count natural objects, compare sizes, measure plant growth, estimate quantities and identify patterns in leaves, flowers and bark. Mathematics becomes embedded within play, helping children build confidence and understanding through real experiences.
Outdoor STEM learning is about much more than preparing children for future careers - it’s about inspiring a love of learning. By embracing outdoor learning, we help children become active explorers who feel empowered to make discoveries and understand that they can make a positive difference in the world.
About Amanda
With more than 30 years of experience in early years education, Amanda’s career has been dedicated to supporting young children to learn, grow and thrive. A passionate advocate for outdoor learning, Amanda believes that meaningful play and a strong connection with nature are fundamental to children’s development, wellbeing and lifelong learning.
Top tips for outdoor STEM success 1. Start with children’s interests and questions.
2. Provide open-ended materials that can be used in different ways.
3. Encourage investigation rather than focusing on right answers.
4. Use natural and recycled resources wherever possible. 5. Allow time for experimentation and redesign. 6. Connect activities to real-world scenarios 7. Celebrate curiosity, creativity and perseverance.
Shop Little Learners products and more at
ypo.co.uk/earlyyears
19
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32
