Here's a sampling of the club’s activities.

Small Group Challenges

In the first half of the year, the children practice their problem-solving and cooperation skills in small groups. The goal is to introduce Design Thinking, develop team building, and prepare them to compete in the end-of-year STEAM-mania competition. Each meeting introduces a new STEAM-based concept and allows them to practice their problem-solving and collaboration skills. 

Student-Led Learning Activities

We embrace student-led learning. While still focusing on our learning objectives of cooperation, problem-solving, and critical thinking, we can engage the children with creative lesson plans. Some favorites over the past two years include a forensic science-based, Clue-themed mystery of who bird-napped Big Blue; a mathematical and cryptology-based, Harry Potter-themed escape room; and a literary-inspired science fair. 

FIELD TRIPS (Optional)

The club also organizes field trips for additional STEAM learning and team-building opportunities. These are optional and usually planned after school on half days. Past field trips have included a reptile day at Maymont and a simple machines discussion paired with a high ropes course at Peak Experiences. We are already planning some fabulous trips for this school year. Fliers and sign-ups will be sent to club members during the year. These field trips cost extra, typically in the $15-$25 per child range. 

STEAM-mania Competition

RETURNING FOR 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR!

Students work together in the small groups they have been practicing with all year to solve STEAM-inspired challenges. They are scored on their teamwork, design thinking, and creative problem-solving abilities. The half-day event will occur on Saturday, May 4th, at Bettie Weaver Elementary - more details to come.