Curious Minds: Nurturing STEM Skills in the Nursery Years

The early years of a child’s life are rich with discovery, exploration, and learning. Long before they enter a formal classroom, children begin forming ideas about how the world works.

This natural curiosity is the perfect foundation for STEM—Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics—learning in nursery settings. Far from being advanced concepts reserved for older students, STEM principles can and should be gently introduced during the formative nursery years.

Through playful, hands-on experiences, nursery schools are uniquely positioned to encourage exploration, build foundational skills, and develop a lifelong love of learning. STEM in early childhood isn’t about formal instruction; it’s about encouraging questions, experimenting freely, and celebrating curiosity.

Science Through Exploration

Children are instinctive scientists. They notice shadows, watch insects crawl, observe raindrops on windows, and ask endless questions about what they see.

In a quality nursery environment, these moments are treated as teachable opportunities. Educators might set up simple experiments, like watching what floats and sinks, or encourage children to observe how plants grow over time.

In the context of Nursery admissions Wembley, many schools are now emphasising how their early years programs include inquiry-based learning to nurture these natural investigative instincts.

Technology as a Tool for Engagement

In nursery settings, technology doesn’t just mean screens. It refers to a variety of tools that help children explore and understand the world. From magnifying glasses to child-friendly robots that follow commands, early exposure to appropriate technology enhances cognitive skills.

When guided by an adult, these tools can introduce problem-solving and sequencing skills. For example, using a basic coding toy to follow a map allows children to plan, test, and revise their approach—developing their logic and reasoning through playful challenges.

Engineering Through Construction and Play

Building blocks, magnetic tiles, cardboard tubes—these are more than toys. They are the tools of young engineers. Whether constructing towers, bridges, or imaginary worlds, children engage in trial-and-error thinking, spatial awareness, and collaboration.

This type of constructive play encourages children to persevere through failure, think critically, and develop fine motor coordination. Educators scaffold these activities by asking reflective questions: “What could make this stronger?” or “What would happen if you changed the shape?”

Nurseries that actively foster these experiences stand out. When looking for the best nursery Wembley, parents often seek places where children are encouraged to tinker, test, and try again—developing essential skills in the process.

Maths in Everyday Routines

Early mathematical thinking is woven into the fabric of daily nursery life. From counting out snacks and recognising patterns to measuring water during playtime, children begin to understand numbers, order, and spatial relationships through authentic contexts.

Singing number songs, sorting coloured buttons, or playing matching games all help develop numeracy skills. These early experiences with maths build confidence and prepare children for more formal learning in primary school.

The Educator’s Role in STEM Development

The success of STEM in nursery depends largely on how it is introduced. Educators act as guides, setting up purposeful play environments, posing open-ended questions, and allowing children the freedom to explore their own ideas.

Rather than giving direct answers, teachers model curiosity and investigation. They might say, “I wonder what will happen if we add more blocks here,” or “Let’s see what we can find under this rock.” These prompts encourage children to think critically and follow their interests with intention.

Lifelong Learning Begins Early

Nurturing STEM skills in the nursery years isn’t about preparing children for a specific job or test. It’s about encouraging them to observe closely, ask thoughtful questions, and not be afraid to try new things. These traits serve children throughout their school years and into adulthood.

By supporting STEM thinking from the very beginning, nurseries lay the groundwork for problem-solving, creativity, and resilience. The joy of discovery—and the confidence that comes with it—can shape a child’s learning journey for years to come.