Smart Ways to Engage Young Learners Through Reading

While our world is driven by evolving technologies and diverse forms of entertainment, reading remains a timeless way for people of all ages to engage with stories and information. From the moment a child grabs their first picture book to the days when intricate novels transport teens to complex realms, the journey of reading is a guiding force through every child’s developmental years.

For young learners, STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) subjects often are celebrated for nurturing innovation, critical thinking and problem solving, but there is immeasurable value in engaging children in the humanities – or literature, language and arts – as well. When a love of reading is fostered alongside an excitement for STEM learning, kids become well-rounded thinkers who can express their curiosity and creativity. Moreover, when children learn about the stories of great inventors, creators, scientists, entrepreneurs and more, they find new role models and are encouraged to question problems and seek answers themselves.

As the Department of Defense STEM observes, weaving literacy into STEM helps children develop reading comprehension skills as they gain a deeper understanding of STEM concepts through storytelling. When we engage kids in reading, we not only help them build foundational literacy, but we also support their cognitive, emotional and social development.

Read on to learn how you can encourage connections between reading and STEM!

Share STEM-Themed Books With Kids

To help take the guesswork out of choosing books that bridge reading and STEM for kids, here are a few resources providing recommendations that will help you introduce new, exciting and inspiring topics:

• 7 Books That Will Get Any Child Interested in STEM 
   
• 10 Books to Help Children Celebrate Diversity in STEM 
   
• 5 Great Children’s Books That Explore Neurodivergence

Spark Discussion With Adolescent Readers

As growing kids explore more books with new topics, you can help guide fun and meaningful discussions about the stories they’re experiencing. Below is a list of questions you can use to start the conversation:

• Why do you think this book has this title? 
   
• What was your favorite part of the book? 
   
• What is one thing you learned from reading this book? 
   
• How did the main character solve their problem? 
   
• If you could be friends with any character from this book, who would it be and why? 
   
• What do you think the author is trying to tell the reader of this story? 
   
• Is there anything in this book you are interested in learning more about?

Uncover New Ways to Ignite Curiosity

For more reading suggestions and tips for engaging kids in fun and educational ways, visit our blog.