At Holy Family Catholic Academy (HFCA) in Inverness, the youngest learners are discovering the world around them through play — a key method of learning that also introduces them to the wonders of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). As the only International Baccalaureate World School in the northwest suburbs, HFCA believes that play is more than just fun. It’s a powerful tool for exploring, building relationships, and developing critical thinking.
Preschoolers, known for their natural curiosity, ask questions, explore, and make exciting discoveries. HFCA nurtures this curiosity, seeing it as a catalyst for learning.
The school’s dedication to STEM education is further strengthened by its partnership with the Museum of Science and Industry’s Leadership Initiative. This collaboration provides access to resources from top science educators, helping HFCA create a comprehensive and engaging science program for nearly 500 students, from preschool to eighth grade.
Every month, HFCA’s 3- and 4-year-old preschoolers take part in “in-house field trips,” where they engage in hands-on science experiments in a real lab setting, wearing lab coats like true scientists. The school also taps into its talented parent community, many of whom are STEM professionals or educators, to support classroom teachers and deliver fun, age-appropriate lessons.
For many volunteers, the experience is just as rewarding as it is for the students.
Kathy Ladd, a preschool teacher, shared, “My favorite part of teaching Preschool STEM is seeing the look of wonder on students’ faces when they witness something amazing about science and realize how capable they are.”
Kaylin Arendt, a parent volunteer and STEM professional, added, “The play-based experiments designed by scientific educators teach foundational concepts that foster critical thinking and confidence. These young learners begin asking questions and seeking answers like real scientists.”
The benefits of STEM at HFCA go beyond the classroom. Hands-on experiences teach problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration—skills that will help the students throughout their lives.
Whether they’re making rain with droppers and shaving cream to learn about weather, or using vinegar and baking soda to inflate a balloon and explore chemical reactions, HFCA’s play-based approach makes STEM both fun and accessible.
Principal Kate O’Brien emphasized, “We believe learning should be as engaging as it is educational. Through play-based learning and storytelling, we make STEM enjoyable and accessible for even our youngest students.”
HFCA’s Preschool STEM program not only introduces science but also lays the foundation for lifelong learning. By blending play and discovery, the school prepares its preschoolers to confidently explore, question, and solve problems, building the skills needed for success in kindergarten and beyond.
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