Kiddies Hut at Diamond Beach has celebrated becoming a ‘little scientists house’.
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The early learning group was awarded the national title by demonstrating commitment to the ‘little scientists’ inquiry-based science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programs through the early childhood service the hut supplies.
The Kiddies Hut entered the little scientists early STEM program and was selected prior to the program awards because of its simple yet innovative and child-led project exploring how water travels through pipes.
To achieve the title, the hut also had to demonstrate the students engaged in inquiry-based scientific research every day. Documentation of the children’s progress was also required, alongside ongoing attendance at little scientists workshops.
Lead educator, Sarah Smith said for the hut to have become a little scientists house was a huge achievement and one she was very proud of.
“Incorporating STEM experiences is a passion of mine,” she added.
“It is exciting to work alongside children as they discover, experiment and investigate the happenings in their environment.
“To set this as a professional goal of mine almost six years ago and to achieve it by becoming a recognised little scientists house based on our project work is so rewarding.”
Not only is the little scientists house plaque now displayed proudly for all to see, but two educators have the opportunity to attend two free workshops, which will extend their skills in delivering STEM experiences to the children attending their service.
“What makes me feel so proud of Sarah and our team is that this achievement sees us become the first little scientists house on the Mid North Coast,” director, Natalie Wilson said.
“I encourage all of our educators to find and nurture a particular passion they may have.
“Sarah’s passion has long been science, which later expanded into STEM.
“It is exciting to watch these experiences unfold and develop.
“I feel that this is something that makes us unique.”
Children attending little scientist houses are provided with daily opportunities to discover the world and scientific phenomena, and engage in innovative activities relating to science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
They are encouraged to have fun and explore different topics with their educators, who have participated in Little Scientists workshops on a variety of topics like water, engineering and optics.
The learning, problem solving, exploration and research is done through hands-on and meaningful experiences whereby the educators are the learning facilitators.
