Buffalo County 4-H’s STEAM Discovery Days is one of the most anticipated programs of the year. The days focus on engagement with science, technology, engineering, art, and math learning experiences that make real world connections between what they are learning in their classroom and in their 4-H clubs. This event promotes positive academic attitude, social competence, and happiness by encouraging youth to build connections based on common interests.

Over 80 Buffalo County 4-H members really felt the spark, especially with Fire Tile Art. Fire Tile Art combines art and science; by adding isopropyl alcohol on the tile. Adding flame to the project, the color expands to create a tie dye pattern on the tile. 4-H members were able to then take it home to enjoy with their families. Youth also designed rainbow spectroscopes to discuss principles of color and light, built marshmallow bridges using scientific inquiry, and launched balloon rockets and measured their flight patterns. The purpose of these hands-on experiments were to build critical thinking skills, practice problem solving, and explore new interests. 4-H members won’t only remember the activities they participated in, but the “sparks” they found within themselves.