What is STEM?

Smart Steps monkey and giraffe thinking about STEM

STEM is science, technology, engineering and mathematics based learning.

STEM Framework

Based on the Toy Industry Association's Toy Assessment Framework for "STEAM".

The Toy Industry Association's Framework does not start until Two Years.

Smart Steps team worked internally to measure each Smart Steps toy based on the following criteria introduced by the Toy Industry Association's Framework:

  • Characteristics of a Good Toy

    Four indicators that each toy must be measured by.

    Smart Steps toy must rate Good to Excellent in all four indicators.

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  • The Prime STEAM Attributes

    There are five attributes that each toy must be measured by.

    Smart Steps toy must rate Good to Excellent in four of the five attributes.

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  • STEM Categories

    Smart Steps toy must support two of the four STEM categories.

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Framework Checklist

Poor

Good

Excellent
Characteristis of a Good Toy

Fun and Engaging

Easy to Use

Supports Skill Development

Inclusive

Poor

Good

Excellent
Prime STEM Attributes (Support 4 of the 5)

Real World Relevance

Active Involvement

Logical Thinking

Free Exploration

Supports Step-by-Steps Learning

None

Minor

Moderate

High
STEM Categories (Must support 2 of the 4)

Science

Technology

Engineering

Math

Introducing your child to STEM early on can set your child on the right path for academic growth, cognitive development, and thinking skills. Smart Steps products support STEM learning by integrating skills such as cause and effect, problem solving, hand-eye coordination, sensory development, and much more!

Within our toys, STEM is represented by sequencing, logic, movement and language.