The process of teaching and learning science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) offers youth opportunities to make sense of the world they live in and prepare them for the future workforce. High-quality STEM opportunities help youth develop critical-thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills; enhance creativity; and engage in an investigative process.

Family Literacy Day

November

Even though our legislators and government don't always appear to see the importance of out-of-school time (OST) programs, those of us who have worked in the field or have children who attend these programs, know that they make a huge difference in the lives of children and families. Why are they so effective in supporting youth success?

Computer Learning Month 

Month of October

Recently, STEAM has caught on as a buzzword in K-12 and afterschool learning. Short for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math, STEAM is more than a subject area. It is meant to be an interdisciplinary way to develop creative problem-solving skills in youth.

The arts have a profound impact on youth, educators, and educational environments (Fiske, 1999). In fact, the arts have the ability to:

Read a New Book Month

Month of September

It's read a new book month! The perfect time to add a few books to your STEM afterschool program! Here are four titles I love that take on STEM topics and practices.

Everyone wants to get new employees onboard and working effectively with youth as quickly as possible. What does it really take to prepare a new employee to work in out-of-school time programs?

Across the country, August can be a time of transition and stress. Starting the school year is a change for the whole family. Here are some tips to share with the families in your summer programs to help them prepare for these changes.