Engineering, as defined by Encyclopedia Britannica, is the application of science to the optimum conversion of the resources of nature to the uses of humankind. That's a whole lot of big words for most small kids. So what is the best way to explain engineering? Engineering is using science to solve problems around us.

Of course it is more complicated than that. Your little one will have a million follow-up questions to be sure, so let's start at the beginning. Almost everything human-made was created by an engineer. They may have already heard of an engineer and have heard of people who are engineers. However, the word “engineering” is a broad term and covers a wide range of career paths and skills. 

Start with a Video

Youtube is your friend my friend. Yes I said it! There are so many great videos already out there that can simplify engineering for all ages. It is a great way to get the idea out there and start the conversation. 

Don't know where to start?
Check out this great video by Crash Course Kids: What’s An Engineer?
Another fun one is The Engineer Song by Hopscotch.

Peak their Interests

Whatever concepts grab your child’s attention, I’m sure an engineer is behind it in some way shape or form. Try asking your child what they like or what interests them in school or the world around them. Then, ask them, “How does this connect to engineering? Did an engineer make that or help solve that problem?” Brainstorm some objects you and your child like to use everyday and discuss how an engineer helped design it.

Make it a Game

There are so many types of engineers that it’s hard to keep track. Try to brainstorm some with your child, and tell them the proper name if they can’t come up with it. Some common types of engineers include: Civil, Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, and Material Scientist. But there are way more than just that. Explore all the different types of engineers and what each of them do at EnggWeb.com. Ask your child which one they like the best and why.

Think like One

Engineers can think through complex problems, collaborate with others, communicate human-needs, and persevere through failures. These important skills are developed through engineering education and one big part of that is the Engineering Design Process. The Engineering Design Process is a step-by-step process that engineers use to solve complex problems. Helping your child understand each stage of the process and its purpose will help them see exactly how engineers do what they do. 

TeachEngineering.org is a great resource that explains in detail the Engineering Design Process, as well as provides great activities and lesson plans for children of all ages.

Don't Stop There

Get your kids engaged with STEM education in a fun and effective way. There are so many amazing resources out there that will give your child the opportunity to take the reigns and live the life of an engineer. Here is a list of some great programs and resources to check out:

Engineering for Kids
"At Engineering For Kids, we inspire kids ages 4 to 14 to build on their innate desire for answers by exploring engineering concepts in a fun, hands-on way. We offer afterschool programs, evening classes, camps, birthday parties, and special events designed to present kids with challenging yet accessible engineering activities from which they can learn and grow."

STEM at Home
"Interesting, informative and illuminating STEM-based learning resources to help your child soar. Get the latest space news and fun resources guaranteeing an out-of-this-world memory."

Young Engineers
"Founded in 2008, Young Engineers operates Engineering after-school activities in over 50 countries. Our mission is to prepare 4-15 year-old students for the changing demands of the 21st-century workforce. With over 30,000 happy students globally, Young Engineers has been recognized by the Harvard School of Education and the European Union Commission."

STEM Village
"STEM Village is a supplemental education and career guidance program, created to help equip our youth for careers in the new knowledge economy. The program uses online education tools to assess, educate, guide, and motivate students to improve their skills in critical STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) areas and ultimately succeed."

Exploring with our children, such as discussing engineering and STEM-related careers, is a great way to open their minds about how the world works and how their school subjects are related to everyday life. We don't have to wait until they are teenagers to develop problem-solving skills and opportunities for them to grow. Learning engineering from a young age can help to build skills in other subjects, such as science and math. Knowledge is power. Empower your children by giving them the confidence to learn more and more everyday.