🎓 Youth STEM Opportunities in January
At STEM from Scratch, we are dedicated to igniting enthusiasm for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) by presenting thrilling opportunities for youth every month. These initiatives foster creativity, problem-solving abilities, and innovation — all vital competencies for the upcoming cohort of scientists, designers, and technology pioneers. Whether your child is beginning their STEM path or is already enthusiastic about coding or engineering, this compilation of January STEM opportunities has something for every interest!
Here are five enriching programs for January that showcase how youth can engage in STEM:
1. I-STEM Program (Halton District School Board – Ontario, Canada)
The I-STEM program is an extensive four-year high school initiative aimed at cultivating leadership, innovation, and technical expertise in students, equipping them for a future in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Key Features:
– Locations: Aldershot High School (Burlington), T.A. Blakelock High School (Oakville), and Elsie MacGill Secondary School (Milton), Ontario
– Application: Grade 8 students are required to apply; entrance is determined by random selection
– Curriculum Focus: Focus on STEM-related courses such as I-STEM Math and Integrated Project-Based Learning
– Skill Development: Engineering design principles, critical/creative thinking, cooperative problem-solving
– Cost: Annual fee of $200
Why It’s Great:
This serves as an excellent entry point for students seeking a solid grounding in applied sciences and engineering within their public school system.
More info: I-STEM Program
2. Halton Hills Public Library STEM and Arts Programs
Local libraries are gems for informal, budget-friendly STEM education. The Halton Hills Public Library provides scheduled programs that encourage curiosity and technical skill development.
Program Highlights:
– Variety of options: Ranging from animation and programming to robotics
– Frequency: Programs span 8 weeks and are offered four times a year
– Accessibility: Designed for various age groups and skill levels
– Cost: Most programs are free or low-cost
– Tip: Don’t forget to explore your local public library as many across Canada offer similar STEM-related opportunities.
Why It’s Great:
Ideal for younger students and novices, these sessions introduce kids to hands-on science and creativity in community-centric settings.
3. Chamelea Science Centre (Toronto, Ontario)
Delivering immersive STEM experiences for kids aged 3 to 12, this science centre focuses on engaging, practical learning.
Program Details:
– Age Range: 3–12 years old
– Location: Toronto (easily reachable from Vaughn and Markham)
– Structure: 8-week sessions, 1 hour each week
– Flexible Scheduling: Select a session that works for your family’s timetable
– Cost: $100–$300 based on the program
– Activities: Workshops in chemistry, robotics, biology, and engineering — with children taking home their projects!
Why It’s Great:
Fun, interactive, and led by qualified educators, the Chamelea Science Centre enables children to view science as an avenue for creativity and hands-on exploration.
4. Carnegie Mellon University’s Open Learning Initiative (OLI)
For those seeking flexible online learning, OLI by Carnegie Mellon is a self-paced program ideal for high school students interested in subjects such as Computer Science, Biology, and Math.
Details:
– Target Audience: High school students
– Cost: Most courses are offered for $25 (varying from $10 to $80)
– Learning Style: Online featuring interactive activities, diagnostic assessments, and multimedia resources
– Course Variety: Programming, Logic, Life Sciences, and beyond
– Application: Required; availability and deadlines vary by course
Why It’s Great:
Students can explore university-level STEM subjects and study at their convenience — making it fantastic for driven learners and homeschool students.
Link: Carnegie Mellon Open Learning
5. Girls Who Code – Clubs & Summer Programs (Virtual, Global)
Girls Who Code is a global nonprofit organization committed to bridging the gender divide in computing. Their programs empower young girls and nonbinary youth with essential tech and coding proficiencies.
Program Options:
Clubs Program:
– Grades: 3–12, organized by age-appropriate groups (3–5 & 6–12)
– Skill Level: From total beginners to experienced learners
– Time Commitment: 1–2 hours weekly during the academic year
– Cost: Free
– Format: Virtual, available after school or weekends
Summer Programs:
– Grades: 9–12
– Level: Beginner to intermediate
– Delivery: Entirely online
– Tailored: Adaptable schedules to accommodate summer activities
– Scholarships/Grants: Available for U.S.-based participants
Why It’s Great:
With a global, inclusive vision, Girls Who Code is an empowering initiative to support the next generation of women and marginalized groups in tech through free, accessible education and mentorship.
Enroll here: Girls Who Code Programs