Full STEAM Ahead: STEAM Programming and Resources for Children

Children are natural born scientists and engineers. They are full of curiosity and love to experiment. Engaging children with math and science early in life helps them to develop an interest in these subjects. For my capstone project, I created and provided STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) programming for children at the Buda Public Library. I planned and presented five STEAM themed storytimes for preschoolers, and one STEAM family program. In addition to creating and presenting programs, I selected STEAM themed fiction and non-fiction children's books to add to the library's collection. I also researched and selected books, resources, and activities, so that the Buda Library could begin circulating interactive STEAM kits for children. I researched the benefits of STEAM learning for children, and wrote an elevator speech for Buda Library staff members to explain to patrons why the library offers STEAM programs for preschoolers. Finally, I wrote a proposal of how to conduct an outcome-based evaluation of the STEAM programs offered at the Buda Public Library. Overall, completing this capstone project allowed me to gain familiarity with the daily activities and overall character of a children's area in a public library, as well as gave me the confidence and knowledge to provide services to children and their families.