The Green STEMS Project is a unique sustainability outreach program designed to engage children and families with early science and engineering concepts while building empathy around issues of sustainability. Created by faculty members from the School of Teaching and Learning at Illinois State University, the program offers interactive and hands-on experiences outside of the classroom, usually at community events.
The goal of the Green STEMS Project is to provide nature and STEMS-based explorations that promote environmental awareness and encourage participants to think about solutions to environmental challenges. By engaging families and adults in these activities, the program aims to foster a sense of curiosity and care for the environment in both children and their caregivers.
One of the key aspects of the Green STEMS Project is the variety of interactive stations and exhibits that participants can explore. For example, the “Colors in Nature” program uses light boxes to demonstrate the difference between colors from pigment and structural colors found in bird feathers and butterfly wings. This activity not only educates children about the natural world but also sparks conversations about sustainability and the impact of toxic dyes in the clothing industry.
Another exhibit, “Textures in Nature,” encourages children to use their senses to explore natural objects like tree bark, wood shavings, and rocks. By engaging with the environment in a hands-on way, participants develop a deeper appreciation for nature and the importance of sustainability.
The Green STEMS Project also includes stations like “Weather Technology,” where participants can gather and upload weather data to understand how different factors like sun, shade, and water impact temperature. By introducing children to tools like thermometers, barometers, and rain gauges, the program helps them learn about weather patterns and the importance of monitoring environmental changes.
In addition to these hands-on activities, the Green STEMS Project also offers Wonder Walks at local parks and forests, where children can use magnifying glasses to explore the environment and learn about biodiversity. Through scavenger hunts and coding activities, participants discover interesting facts about nature and insects while developing a deeper connection to the natural world.
The Green STEMS Project partners with community organizations, employers, and schools to present programs at various events. Financial support for the project has been provided by organizations like Ameren, Casey’s Garden Shop & Florist, and Rivian’s foundation, Many Futures. The team welcomes students interested in getting involved and offers opportunities to participate in upcoming events.
Overall, the Green STEMS Project is a valuable initiative that not only educates children about sustainability and environmental issues but also fosters a sense of wonder and curiosity about the natural world. By engaging families in interactive and playful activities, the program helps to instill a sense of responsibility and care for the environment in future generations.