Introduction

“Engineering is never static and is always changing as new ways to discover things are being used. It is through engineering that people develop understanding and explanations of the world” (Irving & Carter, 2019, p.271). Being aware of how engineering is used around children at all times sensitises them to the world, enabling them to make informed personal and societal decisions in the future (Irving & Carter, 2019). Educators play an important role in creating learning environments that act as examples of the interconnectedness of engineering, humanity and society. Educators who have a good understanding of science and engineering are more likely to have a positive attitude towards supporting children’s learning (Irving & Carter, 2019).

Resources, Materials, and Digital Technologies

To engage children in engineering activities, educators can use a variety of resources:

• Building blocks and construction toys for hands-on projects.
• Natural materials such as sticks, rocks, and sand for creative construction.
• Tools like child-safe screwdrivers and hammers for taking apart and assembling objects.
• Digital technologies such as tablets with engineering apps and interactive whiteboards for virtual design and construction activities.
• Recyclable materials for sustainable engineering projects.

Learning Experiences by Age Group

Ages 0-2

Block Play: Provide various sizes and shapes of blocks for stacking and building.

Sand Play: Encourage building simple structures with sand and water.

Exploration Toys: Use toys that can be taken apart and reassembled to understand how things work.

Ages 2-3

Building Towers: Challenge children to build the tallest tower with blocks, exploring stability and balance.

Nature Construction: Use sticks and stones to create simple structures in outdoor play.

Basic Puzzles: Introduce puzzles that require fitting pieces together to complete a picture or structure.

Ages 3-5

Simple Machines: Explore levers, pulleys, and wheels with hands-on activities and toys.

Recyclable Engineering: Use cardboard boxes and tubes to build creative structures.

Interactive Apps: Engage with digital tools that allow virtual construction and problem-solving.

Ages 6-8

Bridge Building: Use various materials to design and construct bridges, testing their strength and stability.

Robotics Kits: Introduce basic robotics kits to build simple robots and understand mechanical functions.

Team Projects: Encourage group projects that require collaboration to design and build larger structures.

Pedagogical Practices and Teaching Strategies

Cooperative and Constructive Learning:

Educators can model ways of finding out about engineering, increasing their own knowledge and using constructive teaching strategies (Irving & Carter, 2019).

Hands-On Activities:

Provide practical experiences that involve building and problem-solving.

Collaborative Learning:

Foster teamwork by involving children in group projects where they must communicate and cooperate.

Reflective Practice:

Encourage children to reflect on their experiences, analyse what worked and what didn’t, and plan improvements.

Scaffolded Learning:

Support children’s efforts with guidance that gradually reduces as they become more confident and capable.

Integration of Digital Technologies:

Use technology to enhance learning experiences and offer new avenues for creative exploration.

Conclusion

Incorporating engineering into early childhood education enhances creativity and problem-solving skills, preparing children for future academic and career success. By providing appropriate resources and fostering an environment of inquiry and collaboration, educators can inspire young minds to explore the world of engineering. This approach not only aligns with NQS and EYLF standards but also promotes a lifelong love of learning and innovation (Irving & Carter, 2019).