STEM: What is it, and Why is it Important?

January 12, 2024

“STEM” has become such a buzz word in recent years, but it can still be a little confusing for some parents. What exactly is STEM? STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. It is important because it pervades every aspect of our lives: science is in everything around us; technology is constantly growing and expanding into every area of our lives; engineering encompasses not only building and innovating, but also ways to keep the earth sustainable; and mathematics is in every occupation and aspect of our lives. Studies have shown that STEM-related jobs (jobs within these fields) have increased at 24% in recent years! 

So, what does this look like in practice? Here at KCS, students are given opportunities to learn in hands-on ways. In 2nd grade, for example, students were tasked to build the tallest standing tower only using toothpicks and styrofoam packing peanuts. They were encouraged to start with a firm foundation, but were given free reign to explore, build, experiment, learn from their mistakes, and work as a team. These kinds of skills are invaluable as they continue to grow. In Middle School, the students’ end-of-the-year project was to build a water bottle rocket. They were required to engineer a bottle rocket design; mathematically determine how far they needed their rocket to go using the appropriate equations and formulas; test out their rockets and make adjustments to their design; and then market their product to be “sold” to the public. This project taught them not only how to build, test, and modify their rockets, but it also taught them some real-world skills about marketing. 

These are just some of the STEM-related projects that our KCS students work on throughout the school year. As teachers, we understand the value that STEM education gives to our students, and are always seeking ways to incorporate it into our curriculum. 


 There are ways to incorporate STEM learning at home, as well! STEM learning doesn’t need to be as complicated as doing science projects; it can be as simple as playing with toys! When you’re playing, ask questions of your child: “What can we build with these Legos?” “If I drop these two different items, which do you think will hit the ground first?” “How can we organize these different toys into groups?” “How can I help you with your work, and how can you help me?”


Another way to incorporate STEM at home is by taking more walks. As you are outside, talk about what you are observing around you. Not only can you help your child develop an interest in the nature around you, you are also teaching them to ask questions and to observe what is going on around them. You may be surprised at the things they pick up on.



Reading still remains one of the best ways for children to learn, and reading STEM-related books can help them be exposed to even more science topics and opportunities. There are even some for toddlers that teach some basics of coding! It’s never too early to start exposing your children to science and things around them. Some good books to check out include: 


  • All About Weather: A First Weather Book for Kids by Huda Harajli (2-5 year olds)
  • Just Like Rube Goldberg by Sarah Aronson (3-8 year olds)
  • Emma Ren: Robot Engineer by (8-12 year olds)
  • Everyday STEM Technology: Machines by Jenny Jacoby (9-12 year olds)



These are just some of the ways you can help your child develop critical thinking skills and a love for learning and innovating. What more could a parent ask for? If you have more questions about STEM, or are looking for more opportunities to incorporate these activities into your home, our KCS Computer teacher, Mrs. Salguero, specializes in STEM activities!

5 Black History Month Picture Books

By Aubrey DeJesus • February 12, 2025
This is a subtitle for your new postFebruary is known for two major events: Valentine’s Day and Black History Month. This is a great opportunity to check out some picture books detailing the accomplishments of Black Americans both past and present. I’ve rounded up 5 picture books you can read with your kids or students this month to give them a better understanding of why it is important to celebrate these accomplishments. These books should be a stepping point to further conversations about inclusion, acceptance, and empathy. We were all made in the Lord’s image and deserve respect and acceptance by all. I’ve also made sure to include books that reach beyond just slavery and civil rights movements since Black History Month extends beyond that.

How to Help Your Kids Set (and Keep) New Year's Resolutions

By Aubrey De Jesus • January 7, 2025
There’s something so exciting and invigorating about starting a new year. It is full of promise and the opportunity to grow. During this time, many adults make new year’s resolutions and goals to help set their year on the right path, so why can’t our kids set goals, too?

What is “Overconsumption Core”?

By Aubrey De Jesus • December 13, 2024
I’ve been seeing a new term popping up on social media lately: overconsumption core . But what does it mean? “Overconsumption core" is a term used to describe the social media phenomenon of excessive consumption of goods and services; it is driven by the idea that owning more makes one happier or more successful.

Thankfulness Scriptures - Phone Wallpapers

By Aubrey De Jesus • November 6, 2024
It’s officially November, and what better way to celebrate this month of thankfulness than to count our many blessings from this year and make sure our hearts are directed towards gratitude. One of the best ways to cultivate a heart of gratitude is to memorize Scriptures that remind you of what you’re thankful for, and most importantly, to whom you’re thankful.

Pumpkin Picture Books to Read this Fall in Your Classroom

By Aubrey De Jesus • October 7, 2024
As a teacher and school librarian for many years, from preschool to middle school, I have found one thing to be true across the board: Children of all ages love to be read to. It doesn’t matter the age, kids love listening to a good story and become easily entranced by a good read aloud.

Should Your Child Participate in After School Activities?

By Aubrey DeJesus • September 12, 2024
According to the 2014 Census, 57% of children between the ages of 6 and 17 participate in after school activities. Most of this percentage refers to sports (35%), but also includes clubs or lessons (like music, dance, or languages). Like everything, after school activities have both pros and cons, and while some children may thrive on these extracurricular activities, others may get worn down and it ends up being more of a drawback. Let’s look at some of the pros and cons of a child participating in after school activities.

5 Back to School Picture Books

By Aubrey De Jesus • August 16, 2024
A new school year is on our doorstep, and for most kids (mine included), the new school year can be both exciting and intimidating. There’s a new teacher, new classmates, harder coursework, more homework. Plus, we are mourning the end of summer and all the fun we had.

Internet Safety Tips for Teens and Parents

By Aubrey De Jesus • July 16, 2024
Technology is everywhere , and with it comes multiple threats, from cyberbullying to predators. As parents, we need our teens to be careful online since they spend so much of their time on social media. How do we keep them safe? First , you need to have an honest conversation about what dangers social media can bring to them. Second , come up with a plan of action.

How to Tackle Summer Reading

By Aubrey DeJesus • June 18, 2024
Even for kids who love to read, there’s just something about books that are required that have less appeal. However, almost all schools require summer reading (including here at KCS starting in 2nd grade). Usually these books will be centered around a project or assignment once your child returns to school. Aside from preparing your child for one of their first projects or tests of the year, the goal for summer reading is to keep your kids from backsliding too much and losing their reading growth. It also helps them keep those reading fluency and comprehension skills honed. Here are a few ways to help tackle that summer reading to make it as painless and fun as possible!

Book Recommendations: Middle Grade Books

By Aubrey DeJesus • May 13, 2024
Middle Grade books are books designed for children ages 8-12 years old, or in 3rd through 6th grades. These books are designed for children who have outgrown chapter books, but are not yet ready for the heavier materials in Young Adult books (ages 12-18). Middle grade fiction tends to focus on pre-teens who are experiencing things that most children their age experience - making friends, moving to a new house/school, and sibling interactions. Summer is quickly approaching, and if you’re looking for some books to keep your middle grade child engaged in reading till school starts back up, here are some recommendations to get you started.
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