The National STEM Association is pleased to introduce its prestigious STEM certification program. With a dedicated mission to foster a love for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) among young minds, the association offers a coveted certification to creators and manufacturers of toys, books, and games that embody these principles. This certification serves as a mark of excellence, ensuring that products not only entertain but also educate, inspiring the next generation of thinkers and innovators.
Get your toy, book, or game officially STEAM Certified.
Certifications for toys, books, and games meeting STEAM standards.
Official STEAM Certification
For Toys, Books, and Games
STEAM Certification Badge shown with watermark.
In light of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ projection that STEM job opportunities will exceed 9 million by 2022, parents are actively seeking creative approaches to introduce their children to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
The National STEM Association has embarked on a substantial, multi-year effort aimed at bringing greater clarity to the burgeoning STEM movement. This movement, which now includes “A” for the arts, encompasses science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.
Our comprehensive reports serve as valuable resources to guide manufacturers in creating products that facilitate STEM exploration and learning. Furthermore, we have introduced a new STEM Certification Program to provide toy, book, and game companies with an independent, third-party product review, offering them an official “stamp of approval.
Certification Criteria
To earn the National STEM Association’s STEM certification, your product must meet the following requirements:
1. Educational Value
Your product should demonstrate a clear educational purpose related to STEM subjects. It should promote learning, exploration, and skill development in one or more of these areas.
2. Age-Appropriate Design
The content and design of your product must be suitable for the intended age group. It should align with the cognitive and developmental stages of the target audience.
3. Safety and Quality
Safety is paramount. Your product must adhere to stringent safety standards and regulations. Additionally, it should be well-constructed and durable.
4. Innovation and Creativity
Products should encourage innovation and creativity, fostering independent thinking and problem-solving skills. They should inspire curiosity and exploration.
5. Engaging and Fun
Learning is most effective when it’s enjoyable. Your product should be engaging and fun, capturing the attention and imagination of its users.
6. Inclusivity
Products should be inclusive and diverse, promoting equal access and opportunities for children of all backgrounds and abilities.
7. Teacher/Parent Resources
Where applicable, your product should include resources for educators and parents to support its effective use as a learning tool.
The Certification Process
To apply for STEM certification from the National STEM Association, please follow these steps:
- Submit an application, including a detailed description of your product and its alignment with the criteria mentioned above.
- Provide samples of your product for review. A shipping address will be provided in the form submission email confirmation.
- Our expert panel will evaluate your product against the criteria.
- If your product meets all requirements, you will receive STEM certification.
Displaying the Certification
Once certified, you can proudly display the National STEM Association’s STEM certification logo on your product packaging and marketing materials.
Join us in promoting STEM education and ensuring that children have access to quality educational products that inspire their imagination and spark their curiosity. Together, we can make a difference in shaping the future of learning and innovation.
STEM Certification Submission Fees
$250 per product submission
Our thorough product review generally takes 3 to 4 weeks to complete. Please check your email after submission regularly for updates from the National STEM Association.
Submit your toy, book, or game for official STEAM certification through the National Steam Association. Only use this submission for products which have an emphasis in science, technology, engineering, arts, or mathematics. Each certified product will receive our official STEAM Badge of Approval to use on packaging, websites, printed material and throughout all digital and traditional marketing platforms.
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Navigating the Path to Excellence: Applying for STEAM Accreditation for Your Toy, Book, or Game
In the ever-evolving landscape of educational products, securing STEAM accreditation is a badge of honor, signaling that your creation has met rigorous standards in promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) education. Whether you’ve crafted an innovative toy, an engaging book, or a brain-teasing game, the process of seeking accreditation is a strategic step towards recognition and impact. In this guide, we’ll embark on the journey of understanding how to apply for STEAM accreditation for your unique creation, unlocking doors to a world of educational possibilities.
Step 1: Embrace STEAM Principles in Your Creation
Before delving into the application process, ensure that your toy, book, or game authentically integrates STEAM principles. Reflect on how it stimulates curiosity, critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving—core elements of STEAM education. Familiarize yourself with the specific criteria set by accreditation bodies, such as the National STEAM Association, to tailor your creation accordingly.
Step 2: Research Accreditation Criteria for Each Category
Different types of products may have unique criteria for STEAM accreditation. For toys, consider factors like interactive learning, problem-solving engagement, and overall educational impact. Books may be evaluated on storytelling, content depth, and how they integrate STEAM concepts into narratives. Games might be scrutinized for their ability to challenge players cognitively while seamlessly infusing STEAM principles into gameplay. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for a successful application.
Step 3: Prepare a Compelling Application
Craft an application that serves as a compelling narrative for your product. Clearly articulate how your creation aligns with STEAM principles and goes beyond mere entertainment to foster educational growth. Include evidence such as prototypes, excerpts, or gameplay demos to substantiate your claims. Clearly communicate the learning outcomes your product aims to achieve and how it contributes to the broader STEAM educational landscape.
Step 4: Showcase Impact and User Testimonials
Demonstrate the real-world impact of your creation by sharing success stories, testimonials, or case studies. Highlight how users, whether they be children, educators, or parents, have benefited from the educational features embedded in your toy, book, or game. This firsthand feedback can be a powerful testament to the efficacy of your STEAM-focused product.
Step 5: Stay Informed and Be Patient
After submitting your application, stay informed about the accreditation process timeline. Recognize that these evaluations are thorough and may take time. Be patient and responsive to any additional requests or queries from the accrediting body, demonstrating your commitment to transparency and collaboration.
Step 6: Celebrate Your Accreditation
Once accredited, celebrate the recognition of your hard work and dedication to STEAM education. Leverage the accreditation to amplify your product’s visibility, connecting with educators, parents, and enthusiasts eager for STEAM-focused experiences.
In conclusion, applying for STEAM accreditation is a strategic move to position your toy, book, or game at the forefront of educational innovation. By carefully navigating the application process and showcasing the unique educational value of your creation, you open doors to a world of possibilities where learning meets play in the realm of STEAM.