When we think of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), we often imagine high school students in labs or coding on computers. But did you know that STEM learning begins long before that, even in preschool?
At Cressy Road Early Learning in Ryde, we proudly implement the ELSA (Early Learning STEM Australia) program to spark curiosity, creativity, and confidence in our youngest learners. Designed specifically for children aged 4 to 6, ELSA makes STEM concepts fun, relatable, and age-appropriate.
Let’s explore how the ELSA program works, and why introducing STEM early is one of the best gifts you can give your child.
Why STEM in Early Childhood Matters
In today’s fast-changing world, STEM skills aren’t just for scientists and engineers, they’re essential life skills that encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and resilience.
By introducing STEM concepts early:
- Children develop a strong foundation for future learning
- They become confident in asking questions and exploring how things work
- They learn through discovery, play, and collaboration
- They gain the tools to navigate an increasingly digital world
And most importantly? They have fun doing it.
What is the ELSA Program?
Early Learning STEM Australia (ELSA) is a government-funded program designed to introduce STEM thinking in a playful, meaningful way. Delivered via tablets and hands-on activities, ELSA encourages preschoolers to explore the world around them through four key themes:
- Patterns and Relationships
- Location and Arrangement
- Representations
- Investigating and Predicting
It’s not about memorising facts, it’s about nurturing a mindset of curiosity and exploration.
How ELSA Works at Cressy Road Early Learning
At Cressy Road, we integrate ELSA into our daily routine using guided play, group activities, and intentional teaching moments. Here’s how children experience STEM with us:
- Exploring patterns by sorting blocks or recognising shapes in nature
- Learning about location through games involving direction, mapping, and space
- Creating digital representations using simple drawing apps and storytelling tools
- Making predictions during hands-on experiments like growing plants or mixing colours
Our educators guide each activity with open-ended questions like “What do you think will happen?” or “How could we do that differently?”, encouraging children to think like little scientists.
The Benefits of ELSA for Your Child
The ELSA program is designed with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) in mind, making it a powerful addition to your child’s holistic development.
Cognitive Growth
ELSA strengthens logic, memory, spatial awareness, and number sense, all crucial for school readiness.
Social & Emotional Skills
Group activities foster teamwork, communication, and resilience when things don’t go as planned.
Creativity & Confidence
Children learn that there’s more than one way to solve a problem, and that their ideas matter.
A Love of Learning
By making STEM engaging and age-appropriate, ELSA builds enthusiasm for learning that lasts well beyond preschool.
Final Thoughts: Building Tomorrow’s Thinkers, Today
STEM learning doesn’t start in a science lab, it starts when your child builds a tower, follows a treasure map, or wonders why the leaves fall from trees.
At Cressy Road Early Learning, the ELSA program helps us nurture the next generation of curious thinkers by turning everyday play into powerful learning opportunities. Through guided exploration, engaging activities, and joyful discovery, we show children that learning is fun, and that the world is full of exciting questions waiting to be explored.
Want to learn more about ELSA or book a centre tour? We’d love to show you how your child can start their STEM journey with us.