When my children were in their formative years, there was a big push for a solid STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) education. The focus was on hard sciences. Although I eventually became a lawyer, I’d started college at UCI as a Biological Science major. I loved scientific concepts and wanted to foster an interest in the scientific field in my children. We read the Magic School Bus book series, watched the television show, and signed up for their monthly deliveries of scientific paraphernalia. We visited the Science Center in Balboa Park and played with their interactive exhibits. We amassed an assortment of Science Kits from Imaginarium and transformed into mad scientists. We even hosted Mad Science birthday parties. They were fun family activities, and we learned something along the way.
The current trend in education is shifting toward STEAM (STEM + Arts) to enhance creativity and critical thinking. STEAM integrates arts to make technical subjects more engaging and foster innovation. Studies show that arts education is linked to improved focus and enhanced problem-solving skills. The value of incorporating the arts into the educational system has been recognized.
Our grandkids have taken advantage of fabulous opportunities that exist within their school system. We just attended our granddaughter’s sixth grade play—a performance of the Disney musical Moana. She had a speaking part and sang onstage for the first time. It opened up “a whole new world” (a phrase from Little Mermaid, another Disney show). It was a wonderful growth experience for the cast and crew.
My oldest granddaughter just returned from a trip to Italy with her high school chamber orchestra. They performed concerts in Rome, Florence, and Venice. The kids developed social skills, gained an appreciation of other cultures, and learned about ancient history. It was a memorable educational adventure.
A tip of the hat to the educators who help shape our children…and our future.
