Explore, Build, and Discover with STEAM
Give your child a summer experience that inspires curiosity and creativity. STEAM Discovery features 5 days of immersive Makerspace activities where students explore, build, and experiment. Designed for students in grades 3–6, the program introduces science, technology, engineering, art, and math through hands-on projects that encourage collaboration and creative problem-solving. Working together, students will share ideas, design solutions, and bring their concepts to life—building confidence while discovering their potential as inventors, builders, and creators.
How Students Will Grow This Summer
Think It. Build It. Tell the World: The Pitch Challenge
Students will take part in a week-long innovation challenge, working in teams to develop an idea for a product or service that solves a real problem. Along the way, they explore how ideas become products that help people and learn how thoughtful marketing communicates value and purpose.
Throughout the week, students will:
- Brainstorm and develop product ideas based on real-world needs
- Test materials and build prototypes to bring their concepts to life
- Create simple research activities to gather feedback and learn what people prefer
- Graph and analyze results to better understand their findings
- Design posters or visual displays to showcase their prototype and research
- Prepare a team presentation explaining their idea, the problem it solves, and why it matters
The program concludes with a Student Innovation & Marketing Expo, where teams pitch their concepts using visuals, data, and storytelling while practicing creativity, collaboration, and communication.
Program Details
RIVERSIDE: UCR University Extension
- Date: June 22-26
- Application Deadline: June 15
- Location: 1299 University Ave. Riverside, CA 92507
- Cost: $375
FAQs
How do I apply for the program?
Click on the “Apply Now” button to access our online portal. If you already have an account with us, you can use your existing credentials to log in. If not, please complete the "create an account" section to set up your account and begin the application process.
Applications are reviewed and accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until the program is filled. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please allow 10 business days to receive an official notification of acceptance or denial. Official notification will be emailed to the primary email address.
Is transportation provided?
No. Transportation is not provided.
Are students responsible for bringing snacks and lunch?
Yes. Please ensure that your child brings snacks and lunch each day. A refillable water station will be available for all students.
Are multi-child discounts available?
No. There are no discounts for the STEAM Discovery program.
What time do children need to be picked up from the program?
Children must be picked up promptly at 4 pm when the program ends.
Are the students dropped off at the program or does a parent need to stay behind?
Students should be dropped off at the program. Parents do not need to stay.
Is a photo ID required to pick up children from the program?
Yes. A valid photo ID is needed to pick up your child. The name of the person picking up the child must be listed on the application. If the name is not on the list, the child will not be released.