Studies show that Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) are the current drivers of the global economy; as well as the primary source of innovation. The motivation we give our children today will shape the future. As various technology and fields of STEM arise, so is the upcoming generation. Therefore, we should shape our students and children to prepare for this rapidly changing world.

Research has demonstrated that the drive to explore, interact, and observe in humans begins in early childhood, long before middle and high school, and even before elementary school. At the same time, the nation’s economy is moving toward technologically based industries, creating growth in demand for workers proficient in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

In order to cultivate a generation of adults that is prepared to thrive in the 21st-century economy, we have to begin recruiting and training them to serve in early childhood education capacities. Despite overwhelming evidence in support of this approach, high-quality STEM programming has not yet been incorporated into early childhood education.

In a March 2018 report, the Institution of Engineers of Ireland noted that discovery and exploration are key tenets of early childhood education that “overlap” with “core engineering traits/behaviors.” Engineers Ireland (EI) suggests fostering “critical thinking and problem solving from a young age” in a primary curriculum. It has indicated that providing a STEM curriculum from primary through secondary education may eventually help avoid downturns in the number of engineering apprentices.

According to a report from King's College London, “Most young people’s science aspirations and views of science are formed during the primary years and solidified by the age of 14.” It notes research supporting the efficacy of a “sustained, longer-term program” for building information about science careers into the science curriculum.

Broadening access to a high-quality STEM curriculum is also likely to improve the United States from a STEM deficient nation to a STEM abundant nation.