Inquiry-Based STEM Projects Through Educator Experiences

What turns a child’s question into a powerful learning journey? It’s the educator’s ability to notice that spark of curiosity — from a discovery, an observation, or a simple conversation — and nurture it into a sustained STEM project.  

An inquiry-based STEM project is a child-led approach where learning unfolds over weeks or months, creating space for children to explore their ideas and develop agency, while educators take on the role of guide and co-learner. It starts with selecting a single research question raised by your children, for example “Where does water go?”, and then progresses through the project inquiry cycle (a step-by-step framework).  

For educators, inquiry-based STEM projects are an ideal way to embed STEM meaningfully into everyday practice, while deepening relationships with children through co-construction and sustained shared thinking. 

In this practical, interactive two-hour Online Workshop, you’ll learn to: 

• Plan, co-develop, and sustain an inquiry-based STEM project with your children. 

• Distinguish a project and an open-ended exploration. 

• Apply practical tools and strategies to extend children’s thinking and investigations. 

• Navigate the evolving roles of educators and children in co-constructed environments. 

• Engage all young children in project work, including those with limited verbal or physical skills. 

• Identify and overcome common project challenges. 

• Strengthen engagement with children, families, and your wider community. 

• Draw inspiration from real-world examples from Little Scientists’ national network of educators. 

Whether you’re new to projects or looking to deepen your practice, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge, tools, and inspiration to confidently co-develop your children’s next great STEM project — while supporting your professional goals like working towards Little Scientist House certification or preparing for the 2026 Early STEM Education Awards. 

This Online Workshop recording is suitable for educators and teachers of children 0-8 years old. It is aligned with the EYLF 2.0.

After you purchase a recording, you can view it for 30 days before the link expires.