Category: Cooperative Extension
A Day to Celebrate! S.T.E.M./S.T.E.A.M.
November 07, 2024 Written by Twila Parish-Short, Extension Agent, 4-H STEM Education
National S.T.E.M./S.T.E.A.M. Day is celebrated every year on November 8th and calls for full S.T.E.A.M. ahead! This day inspires kids to explore and pursue their interests in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math.
Why S.T.E.M./S.T.E.A.M.
S.T.E.M./S.T.E.A.M. is all around us and shapes our everyday experiences. Of the U.S. Labor Department's projected 10 fastest-growing occupations, nearly all are S.T.E.M./S.T.E.A.M. careers. Cultivating an interest in S.T.E.M./S.T.E.A.M. early on can lead to future success. However, the U.S. has fallen behind other nations in science and math education. It's essential to motivate young children to pursue these subjects to keep pace with the rest of the world.
Moreover, we must close the gender gap in S.T.E.M./S.T.E.A.M.-related careers. Encouraging interest in girls is crucial for their future earning potential.
How 4-H STEAM Team is celebrating
The 4-H STEAM team celebrates S.T.E.A.M. with every program they offer across Delaware. This dynamic team of eight youth ambassadors works with the director to deliver engaging lessons to youth aged 5-17. Whether at local schools, 4-H clubs, food banks, or museums, they create meaningful, memorable experiences that ignite young minds' interest in S.T.E.A.M. fields.
As we program throughout the state, we are always eager to create lessons around Agricultural Science, teaching youth the importance of knowing where their food comes from, the science behind growing it, and how they can make informed food choices. We consistently incorporate the advancements in agricultural technology and highlight how far we've come in understanding the importance of healthy eating. Our lessons emphasize how our bodies need the right nutrients to grow strong and stay healthy. Agriculture science is one of many important STEAM topics we teach our Delaware youth.
If you're not familiar with the STEAM team, reach out with questions! We are happy to provide the information you need to join the team or participate in one of our programs and discover something new.
S.T.E.A.M. is an essential part of our daily lives. We need more adults to help foster youth interest in these fields and offer opportunities for them to explore careers that align with their talents and passions, paving the way for future innovators.