The Importance of STEAM in Early Childhood

STEAM — Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics — plays a crucial role in early childhood education. Introducing young children to STEAM concepts builds a strong foundation for future learning and prepares them for a rapidly changing world. Early experiences with STEAM nurture curiosity, critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity — skills that are essential across all areas of life.

  • Develops Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills: STEAM activities encourage children to ask questions, explore how things work, test ideas, and find solutions.

  • Builds Language and Communication Skills: As children engage in STEAM, they learn to describe what they observe, explain their thinking, and collaborate with others, strengthening both academic vocabulary and social interaction.

  • Promotes Curiosity and Innovation: STEAM learning taps into children's natural sense of wonder, encouraging exploration and the desire to discover new things.

  • Fosters Early Math and Science Readiness: Through hands-on activities such as counting, measuring, sorting, and experimenting, children develop a solid understanding of core concepts that support later academic success.

What does STEAM look like at Trinity?

We offer STEAM as an afternoon program for young 4-year-olds (born by November 30th), 4-year-olds, young 5-year-olds (TK), and Kindergarten.

Mrs. Kristi Tempestini teaches our program. She holds a master’s degree in STEM education and bases the curriculum on the children’s interests. Additionally, she uses the Early childhood Illinois State Standards and the NACE (National Association of Colleges and Employers) career-readiness competencies.

Both half-day and full-day early childhood students are eligible to participate.

There is a fee for the STEAM program, which is a self-sustaining enrichment opportunity. The collected fee will directly support the program's operations, covering staff salaries, materials, and curriculum expenses.

Half-day students - $525 per quarter per two-day session; this includes lunch bunch. Full-day students - $400 per quarter per two-day session.

Registration for the 2026-2027 STEAM program will be available soon.