Grow with STEM

About the Program

Category: Children and Youth (Best in Category)

Year: 2016

Grow with STEM is a free program created by OC Public Libraries that offers a series of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) based programs for elementary school-aged children in two economically challenged communities in Orange County. The goal of the Grow with STEM program is to provide instruction, accessibility and high-quality programming in the areas of STEM outside of the classroom setting. Educational opportunities in the STEM fields support children’s academic growth, development of early critical thinking and reasoning skills and encourages interest in STEM study and careers. Since the inception of this program, nearly 70 children have explored electricity, circuitry, computer coding and engineering basics through hands-on activities. These learning opportunities help children become creative thinkers, and problem solvers. OC Public Libraries’ staff have attended STEM workshops and created STEM kits to implement their own programs for Orange County residents.