In this episode of The STEM Spark, I explore the fascinating world of Glow Science — uncovering the chemistry and physics behind why things glow. I break down the different types of luminescence and explain how energy changes form to create visible light. Then, I share a collection of hands-on Glow Lab activities — from glowing slime and eggs to glow stick temperature tests — each paired with a critical thinking question to spark curiosity. By the end, listeners will see how glowing connects science, art, and imagination, proving that when learning lights up, understanding shines even brighter.

In this episode of The STEM Spark, I kicked off a brand-new series called STEM Career Chat with my friend Krystal, who works as a lab scientist. We talked about what her job is like, from wearing lab coats and goggles to collaborating with other scientists and tackling real-world problems. She shared advice for kids who dream of becoming scientists and gave teachers and parents ideas for sparking curiosity through simple lab-style activities. This conversation was a fun way to show how science is hands-on, creative, and full of possibilities for the future.

In this episode of The STEM Spark, I share how I introduce STEM to my Kindergarten and 1st grade students through engaging picture books and hands-on activities. I walk through each letter of STEM, highlighting favorite read-alouds like Ada Twist, Scientist, Rosie Revere, Engineer, and Blackout, along with simple, fun activities to bring the concepts to life. I also talk about my classroom setup and how breaking down each letter helps young learners truly understand what STEM means. My goal is to show that books can spark curiosity while making STEM accessible and exciting for even the youngest students.

In this episode of The STEM Spark, I dive into the exciting world of roller coasters and explore the science that makes them work. I break down simple physics concepts like potential and kinetic energy, gravity, and friction, and then share how kids can build their own coasters using paper or recycled materials. I give ideas for K-8 learners, plus STEAM extensions that tie in science, technology, engineering, art, and math. By the end, listeners will see that roller coasters aren’t just fun—they’re a hands-on way to spark curiosity and creativity.

In this episode I share about a different STEAM kit that we actually dive into and try it out on the show! Block Science and Education: Mechanical Principle Science Suit this is a Kit that you can build 50 different things. I will share about the kit and my authentic opinion of how it could be used and how I would use it as well as answer a whole host of questions.

In this episode of The STEM Spark, I share one of my favorite classroom projects—Create Your Own Planet—where my students design an entirely new world with its own weather, ecosystems, cultures, and even interstellar relations. I walk through the required and optional project components, from physical descriptions and life forms to food, technology, and mythology. This project is always a hit because it sparks creativity while encouraging systems thinking, problem solving, and big-picture connections across STEM and STEAM.

This episode of The STEM Spark I share three fun and easy STEAM experiments families/friends/caregivers can try at home using simple materials: dancing raisins, paper towel art, and marshmallow towers. Each activity sparks curiosity while teaching real science concepts like buoyancy, capillary action, and engineering. Parents will also get an at home guide giving Materials, instructions, guiding questions and background science info to make the experience both playful and educational.

In this episode of The STEM Spark, we explore the power of “What If” STEM experiences—those imaginative questions that inspire hands-on experiments and creative problem-solving. By asking “What if?” learners can deepen their understanding, build resilience, and spark curiosity in science, technology, engineering, and math. Tune in for practical ideas to bring “What If” scenarios to life at home or in the classroom!

Easy STEAM Experiments – Adult Guide