March 24-26, 2026
Why Do We Host the Early Childhood STEM Institute?
What a joy it is to explore how young children learn about science, technology, engineering, and math! As George Washington Carver once said, “Since new developments are the products of a creative mind, we must therefore stimulate and encourage that type of mind in every way possible.” Introducing STEM concepts early helps children develop problem-solving, creativity, and critical-thinking skills—building a strong foundation for lifelong learning while making education exciting and hands-on.
From birth, children show an eagerness to explore the world around them. STEM experiences nurture that exploration through play, experimentation, and discovery. Whether building through play, observing cause and effect, or collaborating with peers, children gain a deeper understanding of how things work. As Science Evangelist Ainissa Ramirez reminds us, “Creativity is the secret sauce to science, technology, engineering, and math.”
Yet bringing STEM to life in early childhood settings can be challenging without the right tools and training. The National Science Teachers Association emphasizes the importance of supporting educators through professional development that equips them to foster curiosity, experimentation, and discovery in young learners.
That’s why HSW’s Early Childhood STEM Institute is dedicated to providing early educators with engaging, practical learning experiences. This year’s fully virtual event offers interactive sessions and hands-on strategies designed to help Head Start staff confidently introduce STEM concepts in developmentally appropriate and meaningful ways—all from the comfort of their own space. We’re bringing the excitement of STEM from the field to your screens, connecting educators everywhere in a dynamic, collaborative online experience.
Join us for a dynamic, inspiring experience that empowers educators to spark children’s love of learning through the wonder of STEM.
Interested in registering but don’t have a MyR9HSA account? Please email Melissa Sahagun for assistance.
For our Early Childhood STEM Institute, we will be offering three formats to support deep learning and connections among attendees:
Virtual Via Zoom
March 24-26, 2026
I have been to management workshops, not leadership training. This has totally changed my perspective and encouraged me to propel forward in developing my skills.
I am honored and humbled to be a recipient of the Head Start WEST’s Legacy Scholarship. The scholarship helped me get one step closer to achieving my goal of becoming a Head Start Director.
I took part in The disproportionate impact of COVID 19, and how to provide “real” support for black/brown children and families and I just want to say this was an amazing webinar. I hope we can look forward to further conversation on this topic.
Thank you so much for making events like this! I really enjoyed and learned so much teaching strategies to implement STEM in the classroom.
The HR Network was an excellent opportunity to network and learn the best practices from other HR professionals within Head Start programs. You will be amazed by the level of talent and experience of the participants.
The Summer Camp training was powerful and inspiring! Each presenter was very engaging, it’s hard to even pick a favorite session!
The Leadership Challenge training was very relevant to my work as a Head Start leader! Great facilitation; stayed with the program yet allowed time for individual and small group reflections.
Regular price $12.00
Regular price $39.00
Questions? Contact us at headstartr9@region9hsa.org.
