Andrew Learns about Engineers: Career Book for Kids
#3 of 8 in Career Books for Kids Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Andrew Learns about Engineers is a STEM children's book that introduces young kids to the career of an engineer through the story of Andrew, who imagines a new toy and is compared to an engineer by his father. The book is part of the Andrew's Career Day series and includes phonetic assistance, a glossary, and diverse images of engineering pioneers. It aims to inspire children to consider a career in engineering and highlights the importance of engineers in society. The book is ideal for National Engineers Week, World Engineering Day, and other celebrations of engineering.
Discussion points
What do you think an engineer does?
Can you imagine a machine you would want to invent? What would it do?
Why do you think engineering is important in our world?
How do you feel when you build or create something new?
If you were an engineer for a day, what problem would you like to solve?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use relatable examples of engineering in everyday life to make concepts more tangible for the child.
Encourage your child to think creatively by asking them to draw or describe an invention they would make.
Discuss the various types of engineers and their roles to broaden your child’s understanding of the profession.
Highlight the problem-solving aspect of engineering to help the child see the practical and impactful side of the field.
Share stories or examples of famous or local engineers to inspire and provide real-life context.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: Andrew's journey in the book showcases his curious nature as he explores different engineering fields. Each chapter presents a new aspect of engineering, sparking curiosity in young readers.
Real-World Application: Children can adopt a curious mindset in their day-to-day activities, exploring how and why things work, and applying this curiosity to their studies and problem-solving tasks.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, Andrew encounters various challenges that engineers face. He learns from the engineers how to approach problems methodically and create effective solutions.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to tackle their own problems, whether homework or interpersonal issues, with a calm, analytical approach, mirroring the problem-solving skills of engineers.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Andrew learns that engineers often work in teams to achieve their goals. The book highlights collaboration and the sharing of ideas to accomplish complex tasks.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to work cooperatively in group settings such as in school projects or sports, understanding that teamwork can lead to achieving great results and learning from one another.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: In one chapter, Andrew learns about the trial and error process that engineers use to refine their designs. This teaches the value of perseverance through failure.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to persist in their efforts regardless of setbacks, understanding that failure is often a stepping stone to success.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: The book demonstrates how engineers use creativity to innovate and solve problems in new ways. Andrew is inspired by the creativity of the engineers he meets.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to use their imagination to come up with unique solutions in their play or schoolwork, understanding that creativity is valuable in many aspects of life.