Stemming from Preparation
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Mission: How to prepare your child for STEM studies in college.
Introduction: Perhaps your child loves STEM subjects with their whole heart. Maybe they even have said that they want to go to college for a STEM area of study. Well, now is the time to prepare them. What can you do as the parent to help them along this path?
Substance/Implementation: First of all, you don’t have to do this alone. If you’re looking for free STEM programs for your child, use your local library as a resource. Often, local libraries are home for STEM resources. The library might host STEM classes or even have STEM kits. Of course, the library will have an array of books and virtual media on the subjects of STEM. I’d suggest even approaching the library staff to help you. They might know of outside STEM resources that can help your child.Â
Continuing, use social media to your advantage. Join STEM Facebook groups or search for STEM reels on Instagram. Perhaps you can find crafty ideas on Instagram or Pinterest. If you’re struggling to teach STEM, maybe the Facebook groups are just what you need.Â
Also, please utilize YouTube. You have access to a plethora of videos and ideas because of the platform. You can learn how to teach your child or even let them learn on their own through the videos.Â
Next, if you’re willing to spend some money, there are wonderful STEM curriculums out there. These programs were designed to help you, the homeschool parent. Search for programs that best suit your child’s learning needs. I’ve included links to some curriculums at the end of this resource. You might want to consider programs like Sonlight, IXL Learning, Brighterly, Apologia, Khan Academy, or Math-U-See. Please see our full Curriculum Database for more recommendations.Â
Vitally, we must discuss college preparation in regards to STEM programs. Help your child become a good student, who has good grades and good studying skills. Also, it’s important that your child LOVES STEM and is passionate about all four subjects. Let your child work independently as this is a key for success in college. Next, they must be ambitious and driven. This will help them push through the hard days of college. As a former dual enrollment student, I’d suggest having your child enroll in college courses while still in high school. Personally, this gave me practice in college academics and I learned how to achieve good grades. I also found my perfect-fit-major, so this might help your child decide on a STEM path.Â
Continuing, you should start preparing your child for collegiate STEM programs through homeschool learning now. An article by Cornell suggests the following:Â
- Take high school math courses (high-level is recommended).Â
- Take high school science courses (high-level is recommended).Â
- Take part in STEM classes or groups. Remember the library idea.Â
- Be a good student.Â
- Prepare your transcripts and/or resumes.
- Take the SATS or placement tests (if needed).Â
- Talk to a college counselor/advisor (if needed).
Conclusion/Motivation: In conclusion, you, as the parent, can set your child up to achieve their dreams. Help them prepare for university-level STEM programs with all the tips and tricks that we have suggested. Best wishes to you and your child as you embark upon this exciting journey!
Helpful Links:
Home School STEM – Home School STEM – Computer Science and STEM Classes for Teens
High School Classes for STEM | Tips to Prepare for College | STEM Girls Network
10 Top STEM Homeschool Curriculum Options [2024]
Homeschool Science Classes & Labs Online
6 Tips to Help Prepare You for College-Level STEM Courses | Cornell College
STEM Course Prep Home | STEM Course Prep
