Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics
Through Stories
The Nebraska 4-H STEM Reading Connections Program
We are here to help you develop children and youth’s love for STEM through storybook guides!
This program provides all caregivers (early childhood professionals and parents) with books, guided questions, and expanded learning resources to support literacy development, enhance relationships, and to make a connection with your local library. Each year the theme changes, but, the story guides always include the following:
- Conversation Starters
- STEM Connections
- Related Readings
- Activity Ideas
- Story Extensions
- Benefits of Reading Aloud
2020 Summer Reading Program Imagine Your Story
Join us this summer exploring fairy tales.
Fairy tales provide an excellent springboard that encourages children to generate ideas and problem solve. The following books have been selected and paired with activities that can be adapted based children’s ages.
Goldilocks
STEM Challenge: Decide which materials are “just right” for you in this sensory experiment.
Little Mermaid
STEM Challenge: Examine the difference between salt and fresh water and why some items float and some sink.
Three Billy Goats Gruff
STEM Challenge: Help the Three Billy Goats Gruff build a raft to float by the grumpy old troll.
Three Little Pigs
STEM Challenge: Discover how weight affects how far and object will travel by huffing and puffing.
Thumbelina
STEM Challenge: Incorporate art with science by painting with the green pigments from plant leaves.
4-H STEM Reading Connections Summer Presentations
This program is available to youth development and early childhood professionals, afterschool clubs, summer school and camps, libraries, and parents. Program staff will provide engaging learning opportunities to spark an interest in STEM concepts and skills.
We will adhere to a high-quality lesson plan that includes:
- Introduction
- Learning objectives
- Opening questions
- Activities
- Physical fitness ideas
- Material list
- Book suggestions
Lesson plans are also adjusted to have early childhood components.
Watch Reading Connection Summer Presentation Videos
No endorsement of products or services by 4-H is intended or implied.
Want to request this program? Please contact us.
Jackie Steffen
Nebraska Extension in Cedar County
The Learning Child
jsteffen2@unl.edu
Sarah Roberts
Nebraska Extension in Dixon County
The Learning Child
sarah.roberts@unl.edu