Stronger through Stem
Thanks to support from the 2025-2026 Challenge Grant, the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children expanded learning beyond the home by providing families with exciting, hands-on STEM experiences that fostered school readiness, curiosity, and family engagement.
Click to enlarge the STEM for Little Learners infographic.
Throughout the year, families participated in a variety of interactive activities designed to make science, technology, engineering, and math both accessible and fun. Monthly STEM kits gave parents and children opportunities to explore together at home, while STEM-focused group connections encouraged collaborative learning. Families also enjoyed a Mad Science presentation, a field trip to the Hartford Science Center, and the creation of a community garden in partnership with Ascentria Health. STEM-themed books, curriculum materials, transportation assistance, meals, and a Passport Incentive Program helped ensure every family could fully participate.
The project empowered parents to embrace their role as their child’s first and most important teacher. As families explored STEM concepts together, children developed curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills while parents gained confidence in supporting learning through everyday experiences. The initiative also strengthened community partnerships and connected families with valuable educational resources that will continue to benefit them beyond the life of the grant.
Like many family engagement initiatives, the project faced challenges in coordinating schedules and transportation for community-based activities. Staff remained flexible by bringing STEM experiences directly into home visits when families could not attend group events and by providing transportation and ongoing communication to reduce barriers to participation.
By creating meaningful opportunities for parents and children to learn together, this project demonstrated how hands-on STEM experiences can strengthen family engagement, promote school readiness, and inspire a lifelong love of learning.
Parents as Teachers National Center applauds your commitment to the children and families in your community.