I wanted to highlight a few STEM opportunities as the year wraps up. Have a wonderful holiday season!
National Programs and Events
NASA Summer Internships
The space agency’s paid internship program gives high school, undergrad, and graduate students a chance to work alongside some of the brightest minds in the world. Educators are also encouraged to apply. Applications for summer 2025 are being accepted through February 28. Explore opportunities.
AI + Sustainability Challenge
Girls Who Code Challenges allow students to think big about a global issue and prototype a solution for their community. This school year’s AI + Sustainability Challenge asks students to create projects on how AI can be used to create a more sustainable future. Anyone aged 13-18 based in the US can participate. You don’t need to be a current program participant or alumni to win! You’ll find Participant, Educator, and Family Guides on the website to help you get started. The deadline to submit is February 12, 2025.
Hour of Code: December 9-15
Hour of Code is a popular annual event where students, teachers, and people worldwide can try a one-hour coding tutorial. Whether you’re curious about coding or have some experience, there are activities for all ages and skill levels. Themed tutorials include Minecraft, NASA, Star Wars, and many more and cover topics like science, math, computer science, social studies, art, and music. These free activities—available year-round— are perfect for doing at home with your kids and can be adapted to classroom curriculum and after-school clubs and libraries. Visit the website to view all activities and learn how to host an hour of learning.
Work It Out Wombats! Family App
The Work It Out Wombats! Family App brings the Wombats’ problem-solving fun right to your home! Join Zeke, Zadie, and Malik- three marsupial siblings from the hit PBS KIDS series Work It Out Wombats! – as they use computational thinking, a creative way of thinking that helps children solve problems in a more organized way. In the App, you can watch animated Wombats! videos, then do hands-on activities using easy-to-find materials with step-by-step instructions. You can also take photos in the App and use them to create a music video starring your child. The App has over 20 fun activities for the whole family. Download the free Work It Out Wombats! Family App from the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store.
Upcoming Events & Activities in Massachusetts
MassRobotics JumpStart Fellowship
Applications are open for the MassRobotics Jumpstart Fellowship, an intensive experience aimed at female students in grades 11-12 from January through May in Lowell and Boston. It takes place on Saturdays and during school breaks. Students gain experience in design and simulation, fabrication and electricity, coding, and professional development, culminating in a paid summer internship. Additionally, students receive $1,000 for fully participating in this program. There will be an online information session for students, parents, and teachers on November 7 from 6:00 pm – 6:45 p.m. This is a free program. Apply by November 12.
November Splash Events
Here are upcoming Splash events in Massachusetts where students can take classes taught by undergraduates. Each event requires registration, so visit the websites for more information and sign up before the deadline. Splash programs are also offered at colleges throughout the country.
- Brandeis University will hold Splash on November 3 for middle and high school students. It’s a free event! Register here.
- Northeastern University will hold Splash for grades 8-12 on November 9. It is a free event. Register here.
- Clark University will hold Splash on November 17 for grades 5-12. It is a free event. Register by November 14.
- Boston College will hold Splash on November 23 for grades 6-12. Cost: $10. Register here.
Innovation: Earth Exhibit at the Museum of Science
Visit Innovation: Earth, part of the Museum’s Year of the Earthshot, a yearlong exploration of climate solutions and actions we can take now to live sustainably on Earth. Through this immersive, interactive experience, you will gain an intimate understanding of the cutting-edge innovations altering our transportation, food, housing, and energy systems. Learn about the MIT Autonomous Bicycle Project, which aims to bring the convenience of on-demand mobility to bicycle-sharing, allowing more people to enjoy their cities in a new and environmentally friendly way.
Need Holiday Gift Ideas?
The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution in Massachusetts sells unique STEM puzzles, games, toys, and books for children. Part of every purchase from their shop supports scientific research.
Calendar of Massachusetts Events
November 2: The Museum of Science hosts Power(s) of Water Day, a festival that celebrates water as not only a resource but also a life and creative force. The festival stops at the Museum for a day full of unique experiences, including activities for children. Join for a day of film, immersive experiences, workshops, and more! Register for events.
November 2: Attend the Day of the Dead Celebration at the Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology in Cambridge. Learn about this joyful holiday, a national symbol of Mexico. Enjoy craft activities for the young and young at heart. Personalize a sugar skull (extra fee), learn about the natural history of Mexico, watch live folk dance and mariachi performances, and purchase traditional pan de muerto and hot chocolate. Regular museum admission rates apply—free event parking at the 52 Oxford Street Garage.
November 2: Acera School in Winchester is hosting an Open House and Math Festival from 10am-12pm. This event features a morning of math and logic games, puzzles, and challenges for students. Register for this free event.
December 14: The LigerBots robotics team will host a STEAM Expo for families during the Massachusetts East State Championship FIRST LEGO League (FLL) competition at Newton North High School. This free event features hands-on STEM activities for kids and robot demonstrations.
December 14: The Christa McAuliffe Center is excited to bring to MetroWest the Black Hole Symphony, an immersive music production unfolding the story of black holes as engines of gravity, light, and creation through a groundbreaking fusion of art, science, and music! There will be two performance times: 3:00PM (Family Show) and 6:30PM. Cost: $20/person. Purchase tickets.
December 14: Registration is open for Girlstart’s inaugural Boston Girls in STEM Conference in Waltham. Girls in 4th-8th grades will enjoy hands-on workshops led by inspiring women in STEM and learn about rewarding and meaningful STEM careers. Whether your student is already excited about STEM or eager to learn something new, this opportunity is for her! Visit bit.ly/BostonGIS24 to learn more and register. Cost: $50.
