Early Childhood STEM & Literacy Program
Kid Spark’s Pre-K–1st Grade STEM & Literacy Program helps children see themselves as capable learners from the very start. By combining STEM exploration with literacy development, the program gives every child the chance to learn, test ideas, and invent with confidence.
Program at a Glance
The Pre-K–1st Grade STEM & Literacy Program is a complete solution that works in both classrooms and afterschool settings. It combines hands-on materials, engaging lessons, and strong educator supports so every child has the opportunity to explore STEM and literacy in meaningful ways.
Early Inventors STEM Lab
A hands-on kit of durable, reusable engineering materials designed for young learners. Each lab serves one to two children and is built for accessibility so every child can participate and invent.
Curriculum
A robust curriculum of over 60 lessons, complete with lesson plans, guides, and slide companions. It gives any teacher the tools to easily lead hands-on STEM and literacy learning for all students.
Storybooks
A set of 36 children’s books that introduce lesson themes, strengthens literacy skills, and inspire creative STEM exploration.
Professional Learning
Training and ongoing support that give educators the confidence to deliver engaging, high-quality STEM and literacy instruction.
Why Early STEM and Literacy Matter
The earliest years are when children begin to see themselves as learners. By connecting STEM and literacy from the start, we give young students the tools to ask questions, make sense of their world, and build confidence in their ability to learn.
Research shows that by 3rd grade, one in three children already believe STEM is “not for them.” The Pre-K–1st Grade STEM & Literacy Program helps change that story by introducing STEM concepts through engaging, age-appropriate lessons that also strengthen vocabulary, comprehension, and problem-solving.
Building Foundations in STEM & Literacy
The program includes a curriculum of more than 60 lessons that build early STEM fluencies and literacy development. Designed with the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), the lessons make STEM and literacy accessible and engaging for all learners.
Lesson Types:
STEM Foundations Lessons
Build the core knowledge and skills that lay the groundwork for all future STEM learning. Introduce children to early math, problem-solving, and engineering concepts through hands-on exploration.
Storytime Inventing Lessons
Connect children’s books with hands-on STEM themes that deepen comprehension and vocabulary while inviting students to test ideas, explore concepts, and invent creative solutions.
All lessons are aligned with national standards, including NGSS, Common Core, Head Start, and CASEL, ensuring the program is both developmentally appropriate and educationally rigorous.
A Partnership with Purpose
As part of the program, Kid Spark partnered with Special Olympics of Washington to develop 12 Storytime Inventing lessons that highlight the values of empathy, teamwork, and perseverance. These co-branded lessons draw connections between sport, literacy, and invention—helping students see the importance of inclusion both in the classroom and beyond.
This collaboration ensures that the program not only strengthens STEM and literacy skills, but also supports social-emotional growth and celebrates the unique abilities of every learner.
Supported by the Early Inventors STEM Lab
The Pre-K–1st Grade STEM & Literacy Program is supported by the Early Inventors STEM Lab. The lab includes durable, reusable engineering materials that allow young learners to learn, explore, test ideas, and invent in meaningful, hands-on ways.
Each lab is designed for 1 to 2 students, encouraging teamwork and collaboration while ensuring every child can actively participate in the learning process.
A Strong Foundation for Head Start Learners
Our partnership with Head Start shows what is possible when early educators are supported with hands on materials, curriculum, and training. Children gain the early STEM skills and knowledge that prepare them for what comes next, wherever they begin their learning journey.
The Power of STEM + Literacy
When literacy and STEM are integrated, young learners strengthen academic skills while also building confidence as problem-solvers. The Early Inventors STEM Lab promotes growth in both areas by helping children:
- Build vocabulary and comprehension
- Strengthen problem-solving and design thinking
- Develop spatial awareness and fine motor skills
- Practice perseverance and collaboration
- Foster early STEM identity and confidence
Did you know: By 3rd grade, one in three children already believe STEM is “not for them.” The Early Inventors STEM Lab helps change that story by fostering confidence early.
How to Get Started
Ready to bring Kid Spark’s Early STEM & Literacy Program to your school or afterschool program?
Here is what you will need:
Early Inventors STEM Lab
Each lab includes all of the engineering materials students need to build and invent. One lab serves one or two children and is used in every lesson.
Storytime Inventing Books
A collection of 36 children’s books used throughout the Storytime Inventing lessons. Each story introduces a real problem or idea that students explore through hands-on building.
Professional Learning
We provide hands-on training and partner with you to build an implementation plan tailored to your school or program, ensuring your team is ready to confidently launch the program.
Need help funding the program?
We know budgets can be a barrier. That’s why Kid Spark offers several ways to help schools & organizations secure funding for the Early STEM & Literacy Program.
Want to learn more or speak with a specialist?
We’re happy to help you explore the program, answer questions, and build a plan that works for your school or organization