Creativity is a natural part of childhood. It is even more amazing when children are provided free-range to explore, construct, and create endless possibilities—from 3-D models to art masterpieces.
We have a place just for this here at First Church: an arena where science, technology, engineering, art, and math (S.T.E.A.M.) are met head-on by an energetic group of children who attend our on-site preschool, Wonder Years. On any given day in Maker’s Studio, we see a glimpse of what God might have in store for the future. We have the privilege of bearing witness to children erecting symmetrical buildings with the exceptional detail found in adult engineers. We see helicopter construction with working propellers and train systems with bridges that develop teamwork skills as the children negotiate the intricate details of unbridled creativity.
It is not all engineering and math. Over 40 bins of different raw materials and an endless supply of mediums, such as paper and paint, allow our young artists the freedom to create. Most recently, we saw students designing playgrounds with various paper tubes and detailed paper dolls.
Students who participate in our S.T.E.A.M. Enrichment Program have taken it a step further by delving into the art of language—teaching Spanish to fellow students and teachers.
It is a blessing to be able to offer a S.T.E.A.M. classroom that focuses on the individual creativity of children, allowing them to explore and discover, develop problem-solving skills and teamwork, but most importantly, to shine a light on the gifts and talents God has given them.
by Sheila Sierts
Director of Family Ministries
