A rising number of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) projects are being taken by 4-Hers this year in Wayne County. Over 175 4-H projects, under STEM, have enrollments as of our April 1 deadline. Science Fun with Dairy Food: The Case of the Missing Milk, Arcs and Sparks, and Measuring Up Level 1 are looking to be the top contenders for 2026.

According to the American College of Education, “Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving and collaboration to prepare students for the complexities of the modern world. STEM education equips learners with essential skills for an increasingly technology-driven economy” (ACE, 2026).

The acronym, STEM, sometimes gets a bad rap, mostly because people are unfamiliar with the term and what all it entails. Likewise, most 4-H members may not be aware of the variety of projects offered in the STEM category. Aerospace Science, Food Science, Woodworking, Robotics, and Welding are just few examples of project subcategories under STEM.

This year marks my second season with the 4-H Awareness Team, and it is certainly interesting how interests change from one third-grade class one year to the next. Among the classes visited this year: gardening, robotics, baking, insects were high topics of interest. It is a rewarding experience seeing the students light up when they find out that their current interest is already a 4-H project. Even better, if there is not a project already, they can create one with 365-Self Determined. With over 200 projects, 4-H certainly has something for everyone, no need to be an expert, just bring your ideas and enthusiasm.

While I realize that Still/Food & Nutrition, or non-livestock, projects may not be for everyone, I encourage families to find one that closely fits their child(ren)’s interest. Is there something your child(ren), grandchild(ren), niece(s), or nephew(s) has wanted to explore but just needed a little extra boost of confidence? You may just find yourself having fun and learning right along with them.

While the Wayne County 4-H enrollment deadline of April 1 has passed, there is a whole year to explore options for future projects. A project in which a 4-Her is already enrolled in this year could even help them find their niche with a future project. Feel free to check out the project guide online anytime and help spark curiosity. https://go.osu.edu/20264-hprojectguide.

Hannah Getz is an Ohio State University Extension 4-H Youth Development Educator and may be reached at 330-264-8722 or getz.107@osu.edu
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This article was previously published in The Daily Record.