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Idaho Boosts Early STEM Learning with KIBO Robots and Book Clubs

Idaho's innovative approach to early STEM learning is connecting children to engaging tools like KIBO robots. Book clubs focused on 'Coding as a Playground' are encouraging parents and teachers to make STEM learning accessible daily.

This is a collage image and here we can see kids and one of them is holding toys. In the...
This is a collage image and here we can see kids and one of them is holding toys. In the background, we can see trolleys. At the bottom, there is some text.

Idaho Boosts Early STEM Learning with KIBO Robots and Book Clubs

Early childhood educators and parents are teaming up to foster young learners' curiosity and growth in STEM subjects. The University of Idaho, along with the Idaho Commission for Libraries and the Idaho STEM Action Center, is driving these initiatives statewide.

The author, an early childhood educator, believes children are inherently eager to learn and thrive with responsive, caring adults. Their play, even when it seems like failure, is a path of discovery, especially in STEM activities. To support this, the University of Idaho has collaborated to distribute KIBO robots to selected libraries and early education centers in Idaho. These robots connect children to deeper engagement in literacy and improve language skills.

However, lack of foundational knowledge and access to opportunities can hinder children's exploration of STEM subjects. To overcome this, the Idaho STEM Action Center has partnered with libraries to host book clubs focused on Dr. Marina Umaschi Bers' 'Coding as a Playground'. This initiative aims to overcome STEM hesitancy and encourage parents, teachers, and librarians to make STEM tools free and accessible for learning through daily routines.

By partnering with parents and providing accessible tools like KIBO robots, Idaho is fostering a love for learning in STEM subjects among young children. These initiatives are bridging gaps in access and knowledge, empowering children to explore and succeed in STEM fields.

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