Embracing diverse perspectives and exploring various disciplines can promote creativity – both in teams and in individuals. Branching out and exploring new fields of study or artistic expression enhances our potential to innovate.
We believe that a holistic approach to learning and discovery – through subjects like math, engineering, technology, art, and science – promotes the most interesting, meaningful ideas. It is through a multidisciplinary lens that Milliken celebrates 150 years as a company. As we look toward the future of innovation, it’s critical to support the development of these skills in children through STEAM education: “STEAM = Science & Technology interpreted through Engineering & the Arts, all based in Mathematical elements.”
This holiday season, consider giving gifts that help children and adults alike go full STEAM ahead into the New Year.
Architecture-Inspired:
- Magna-Tiles, colorful, translucent geometric shapes, are a great alternative to basic building blocks. Both children and adults can embark on a variety of projects and explore their inner architects.
- These Laser Pegs have been dubbed “Legos with flair.” The building blocks, which are compatible with Lego bricks, include pieces that light up when connected.
- Combine a love of architecture with a love a history through these stunning Lego® Architecture kits. You can build the Louvre, the Flatiron building, the Lincoln Memorial, and much more.
Tech-Inspired:
- For small children, consider LeapFrog’s My Robot Friend App. The app can be downloaded on a phone or tablet and invites kids to get a jumpstart on computer programming. Look for it in the App Store.
- Little Bits kits allow kids and teens to snap pieces together and create their very own circuits. The connections are magnetic, delivering safe and reliable inventing.
Lab-Inspired:
- Lab Test Games present both children and adults with various chemistry-inspired challenges. Take the wooden particle apart and then try to rebuild it without looking at the solution.
- Brainstrings is a 3-D puzzle that consists of elastic bands and colored buttons. The challenge: Group the buttons by color without getting tied up in knots.
Art-Inspired:
- The Cube® brings 3-D printing to your very own home. The small printer gives you the power to make everything from toys to jewelry and home décor.
- On a smaller scale, the 3-D Printing Pen allows you to create three-dimensional plastic drawings.
