Are you ready to dive into the exciting world of STEM? National STEM Day is the perfect occasion to explore science, technology, engineering and math in fun and engaging ways. Whether you are a budding scientist, a tech whiz or an aspiring engineer, there are countless opportunities to learn and discover.
At Boys & Girls Clubs of America, we work with exciting STEM companies like Crown Castle to provide more pathways in STEM for kids and teens. Crown Castle relies on employees with STEM education because it operates cell phone towers and fiber optic cables that connect you to your friends, family, job, school, and emergency services.
Here are seven ways you can explore STEM at home, at school and beyond!
1. Ask Questions
Every great scientist starts with a question. What are you curious about? Maybe you’ve wondered why the sky is blue, how airplanes stay in the air or why some plants grow faster than others. Asking questions is the first step in your STEM journey. Keep a journal to write down your thoughts and questions. This can be your personal exploration log, where you note down ideas, discoveries and insights. Challenge yourself to find answers through research, experiments or discussions with friends and family.
“As you explore more, you build your own STEM confidence, which will open your eyes to careers – and ways you can leave your mark on the world – down the road,” said Phil West, Head of Corporate Communications for Crown Castle.
2. Get Hands-On with Experiments
STEM isn’t just about reading books or listening to lectures; it’s about doing! The best way to learn is through hands-on activities that allow you to experiment and explore. Here are some fun experiments you can try at home (with parent supervision, of course!):
- DIY Volcano: Mix baking soda and vinegar in a container to create a mini eruption. This fun chemistry experiment shows you how acids and bases react. You can even add food coloring for a colorful explosion!
- Build a Bridge: Use straws, popsicle sticks or even dry spaghetti noodles to construct a bridge. Test its strength by adding weights (like coins or small toys) and see how many it can hold before collapsing. This activity introduces engineering concepts in a fun way and teaches you about structures and stability.
- Kitchen Science: Use ingredients like salt, sugar and food coloring to learn about solutions and chemical reactions. You can create colorful sugar crystals by dissolving sugar in hot water and letting it cool.
Nature Exploration: Go outside and observe plants, insects or weather patterns. You can start a nature journal to record your findings and thoughts. Take note of different plants you see and research what they need to grow. This connects biology with environmental science.
3. Explore Coding
Coding is an essential skill in today’s tech-driven world and it’s easier than ever to start learning. There are plenty of free resources and platforms available for young learners. Websites like Scratch, Code.org and Khan Academy offer interactive lessons that teach you how to create games, animations and websites. These platforms use a visual programming language that is beginner-friendly and allows you to see immediate results. Coding is like learning a new language that lets you communicate with computers and bring your ideas to life.
Try creating your own simple game on Scratch or design an interactive story. The possibilities are endless!
4. Connect with STEM Role Models
Finding inspiration in people who work in STEM fields can motivate you on your journey. Look for videos, podcasts or books about scientists, engineers and inventors. Many professionals share their stories online, discussing their careers, challenges and successes. You can also explore virtual events, webinars or local STEM fairs where you can meet professionals in person.
Consider reaching out to local STEM professionals for interviews or virtual Q&A sessions. They can provide valuable insights into the world of STEM careers and share their experiences. Learning from others can help you see the many paths available in science and technology.
5. Take Advanced Math and Science Courses at School
Make sure you enroll in STEM classes to get a foundation of knowledge you can build on throughout your life. If you are interested in a career that requires college, medical school or more, make sure you are enrolled in advanced courses— AP Math and Science, IB, Dual Enrollment or honors classes, depending on what your school offers.
“Taking Algebra 1 in junior high will make a difference and keep options open later,” said West. West began his career as a NASA engineer and has spoken to teachers around the U.S. on how math and science are used in the space program.
And don’t forget English! To be successful in any STEM career, you still have to be able to write and communicate with others.
6. Join After School Programs
After school programs in general can be an excellent way for you to pursue your STEM interests in a more structured environment. They can also allow you to dig deeper in the area of STEM you are most excited about. For example, if you are interested in software engineering, a coding or robotics club allows them to get hands-on skills and experience in that STEM field. If your school doesn’t offer a specific club, consider starting one! This will allow you to pursue something you are passionate about while building valuable leadership skills.
In programs like DIY STEM and Computer Science Pathway, Boys & Girls Club members get to participate in all kinds of STEM activities for kids. Teens can even jumpstart their STEM careers with work-based learning opportunities such as interning at the Club, where they can support staff in leading a youth robotics team or STEM activities.
If you’re interested in joining a Boys & Girls Club near you, head to www.bgca.org.
7. Compete in Local, State and National STEM Competitions
There are so many STEM-related competitions for young people! They provide opportunities for you to flex your knowledge, have fun with peers and gain confidence in your understanding and application of STEM principles.
For teens interested in a STEM career path that requires a college degree, like a doctor or biomedical engineer, national competitions like the Physics Bowl, National Science Bowl or American Mathematics Contest are highly recommended.
Many schools and communities have local STEM-related contests, too. From building balsa wood bridges to creating a floatation device using only cardboard, these events can be just as fun to watch as they are to participate. Ask a parent to help you seek out these events and cheer you on—they may even learn a few new things!
Crown Castle and Boys & Girls Clubs of America: Partners in STEM Education
Crown Castle has partnered with over 60 Boys & Girls Clubs across the country to invest in STEM programs for youth and create volunteer opportunities for staff. Together, Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Crown Castle are preparing more young people with the skill sets and experiences to thrive in 21st-Century STEM careers.
On National STEM Day, take the time to celebrate your curiosity and passion for learning. Share your favorite STEM activities with friends or family and encourage others to join you in exploring the wonders of science, technology, engineering and math. The more you learn, the more you can create and innovate, shaping the future of STEM. Embrace the adventure of discovery and who knows where it might lead you? The journey of exploration is just as important as the destination!
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