Over the last year, the program I lead has undertaken a rigorous planning process to start a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) initiative for the 500 low income children enrolled in our state subsidized early learning program. Living in Silicon Valley (especially in San Mateo County, which has the highest cost of living in the state) is a very challenging thing for low income families, including children who do not often have the opportunity to engage in quality programs. As a Director, my role is to begin my teachers on a path of professional development and add materials to the environment to promote discovery in infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and early elementary aged children; unfortunately, our state subsidized reimbursement does not cover even the basics of quality and we seek support from a variety of generous partners for our quality endeavors.

When I joined the Books SS, I was hopeful that I would get a Secret Santa who would understand that while I am an avid reader, supporting my program through a few STEM related books makes a huge difference in my 35 classrooms. I am so grateful that my Santa came through with a lovely set of books that I've had on my wish list for quite some time! I love love LOVE the "...science for babies" books (what's even better is they are applicable for all of my children, babies and otherwise!).

I gave one of my teachers a book on Optical Physics to test out with the children...Now I can't get it back! The children are so interested in colors, light, and rainbows that they have started a study on prisms in their science area. Check out their video :)

If you're interested in learning more about our STEM initiative, check out our program video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-i4YyViBCA

And, again! Thank you so much to my SS who helped with the love of learning for these kids!