![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() “This missed opportunity is detrimental for these children,” Megan Vinh, an Advanced Technical Assistance Specialist at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute, explained in an article on the matter. This rate is significantly higher than that of the general student population (22.8 percent).īut despite their penchant for science and tech, youth with disabilities are often excluded from STEM activities in educational settings due to mistaken assumptions about their learning capacity. One such study found that over a third of young adults with an autism spectrum disorder (34.1 percent) chose a STEM major in college. Past research indicates that many of these children gravitate toward science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) once exposed to the disciplines. But for countless children with autism, opportunities to explore such interests are often frustratingly few and far between.Īccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 17 percent of children between the ages of 3 and 17 have one or more developmental disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). They can start small and advance with three different modes as their interest grows.In an ideal world, any child who has a passion for science and the will to pursue it would be able to do so. ![]() It’s easy to use, but offers endless challenges for kids to solve. Matatalab Lite is a seemingly simple toy that’s ideal for getting autistic kids interested in STEM early on. These toys also teach fine motor skills as they put things together, something autistic kids sometimes struggle with. Finding local events is a great way to further boost their social skills. Kids interacting with their toys often improve communication skills and socialize with others learning the same things. It’s not just about reaching a demographic that’s often overlooked in STEM fields. STEM toys teach valuable life skills. It is important for parents and teachers to encourage them and interact with them to keep them interested at first. Instead of just learning from a book, special toys let them learn at their own pace and in their own way. Kids can put things together, solve problems, test out theories and more. STEM Toys Let Austic Kids Focus On StrengthsĪs the STEM3 Academy in Los Angeles has discovered, autistic kids learn best when the education plays to their strengths. They can use a hands-on approach to better understand concepts. Depending on the child’s preferences, kids can play with others or on their own. One of the biggest learning challenges with autism is finding something that peaks a child’s interest. STEM toys usually offer multiple ways to interact, meaning kids with autism are likely to find them highly engaging, no matter what their preferred learning style might be. This can limit how well they learn unless parents and educators turn to learning methods that match their style. Kids with autism typically rely on one main learning style. Most people learn well in two different styles, such as auditory and visual. Starting them early helps build their confidence and aids them in learning even more. These toys help them learn valuable skills that help in their daily lives and even help prepare them for a successful future. ![]()
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