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Education

Paper Folding and Cognitive Development

Developing spatial skills is an important part of STEAM education.

Key points

  • Paper folding improves cognitive development and can increase STEAM skills in children.
  • Research shows that paper folding emerges when children are about 2 and becomes more accurate with age.
Tricia Striano Inc.
Source: Tricia Striano Inc.

Paper folding is an engaging and fun activity for the whole family that can increase STEAM skills in children. STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics and refers to a range of skills needed to be successful in today's world.

Developing spatial skills is an important part of STEAM education, as it enables students to think spatially and manipulate objects with their hands. Research shows that paper folding emerges when children are about 2 years old and becomes more accurate with age. Parents can foster these developmentally important STEAM skills by engaging children in paper folding activities. Paper folding can be done at home or on holidays or birthdays; it is a great way to keep children off media devices and strengthen their creative thinking and problem solving abilities. It also provides opportunities for families to work together, helping them bond and become closer as a unit.

When engaging in paper folding activities, children can learn to recognize and identify shapes and patterns as well as develop problem-solving skills. This can help them understand concepts of geometry, physics, and engineering that are used in everyday life. In addition, it helps them to think more critically and creatively while improving their hand-eye coordination. It's also a great way for parents to encourage creative self-expression in young children by allowing them to explore the limitless possibilities of paper folding art.

Paper folding activities are fun for the whole family. Not only will they foster STEAM skills in your child, but they also provide an opportunity for you all to share quality time together. So why not give it a try? You and your child will be amazed at the possibilities. With a few simple materials, such as paper and scissors, you can enjoy this creative activity while building STEAM skills in your children. So don't hesitate—get folding today.

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More from Maithri Sivaraman, Ph.D., and Tricia Striano Skoler Ph.D.
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