Building the Foundation for STEM in Toddler Classrooms: Practical Strategies for Novice Teachers

Authors

• Melissa L. Johnson, Louisiana State UniversityFollow

DOI

10.31390/spark.2.1.03

Abstract

Young children are natural explorers, and even in the toddler years, they demonstrate the inquiry behaviors foundational to later science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) learning. However, early STEM experiences are often underutilized in toddler classrooms, primarily due to misconceptions about children's capabilities and a lack of developmentally appropriate resources. This article, written for novice educators, offers practical strategies and examples to help integrate STEM into toddler classrooms. Drawing on current research, national standards, and classroom-based implementation strategies, this piece outlines how to create engaging environments that support toddlers' curiosity and emerging STEM thinking across science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Recommended Citation

Johnson, Melissa L. (2026) "Building the Foundation for STEM in Toddler Classrooms: Practical Strategies for Novice Teachers," Spark! Innovations in Early Childhood Education: A Research-to-Practice Journal for Educators: Vol. 2: Iss. 1, Article 3.
DOI: 10.31390/spark.2.1.03
Available at: https://repository.lsu.edu/spark/vol2/iss1/3