Full STEAM Ahead

Add some STEAM to your 4-H Programming and achieve a high level of energy and enthusiasm for STEM projects by adding the "A" for Arts and creating STEAM. As youth reach middle school, their enthusiasm in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) decreases, especially with girls by age 15. Over 50% of Americans do not pursue STEM careers because they perceive it to be too difficult. Adding the Art element can add creativity to existing STEM programs, encourage creativity, self expression, and confidence to explore and gain skills while thinking "outside of the box." STEAM programs can engage less confident learners across a variety of venues, economic levels and back grounds—in schools, home school groups and low income afterschool groups. Youth who feel intimidated by science, technology and math can gain new mastery of skills and above all, have fun while learning. These approaches can start with Cloverbuds (ages 5-8) and engage older youth through and beyond middle school