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.

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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.

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Early Inventors STEM Lab

Durable, reusable engineering materials designed for young learners to explore, build, and invent.

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Curriculum

Over 60 project-based lessons that build early STEM skills and connect children’s books with hands-on invention.

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Storybooks

A set of 36 children’s books that introduce lesson themes, strengthens literacy skills, and inspire creative STEM exploration.

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Professional Learning

Training and ongoing support that give educators the confidence to deliver engaging, high-quality STEM and literacy instruction.

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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.

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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.

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Lesson Types:

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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.

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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.

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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.

Learn more about this collaboration here >

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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.

How to Get Started

Bring the Pre-K–1st Grade STEM & Literacy Program to your school or afterschool program.

 

Purchase the Early Inventors STEM Lab

Purchase Recommended Storybooks

Meet with a Program Specialist

Apply for a Program Grant