Had the pleasure of introducing 40 early childhood educators of First Methodist Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana Early Learning Center to science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) practices and content during a day-long teacher training workshop held at the Early Learning Center. 

During the day-long workshop early childhood educators were introduced to STEAM practices and content via conducting hands-on-minds-on STEAM-based explorations. Additionally, teachers were introduced to teaching via inquiry-based methods, creating and providing learning experiences that develop and strengthen 21st century skills: critical thinking, creativity, communication and collaboration. Teachers were also introduced to incorporating STEAM-based early childhood literature, and journaling practices in the early childhood classroom.

Teachers had the opportunity to use a wide-array of age-appropriate low-cost and meaningful technology such as: rulers, levels, magnifying lenses, eye loupes, digital microscopes, Fisher Price Code-A Pillar, and more. The teachers had a great time as they engaged in hands-on, age-appropriate and meaningful STEAM-based experiences, from block building, materials science, reverse engineering, building structures with recycled materials, and more. 

In addition to conducting the day-long STEAM training for the staff of the First Methodist Church, Early Learning Center Dr. Diana Wehrell-Grabowski also provided Makerspace consultation. The Early Learning Center is in the process of establishing a Makerspace/ TinkerLab to be used by the 4 and 5 year-old students. Kudos to the administration and staff of the Early Learning Center for having the vision to create and establish a Makerspace/TinkerLab for their students.

Below is a sample of photos taken during the day-long STEAM training, as well as a few photos of the soon to be Makerspace/TinkerLab. For more information about the STEM and STEAM teacher training workshops/professional staff development Dr. Diana Wehrell-Grabowski conducts worldwide complete the form on the contact page.