Head Start STEM & Literacy Initiative

The Head Start STEM & Literacy Initiative helps make hands-on STEM and literacy learning more accessible to Head Start programs across the country.

This initiative subsidizes the cost of implementing Kid Spark’s Early Childhood STEM & Literacy Program, allowing more Head Start sites to participate while supporting strong, long-term classroom use.

Learn how to apply or support this effort to expand access to early STEM and literacy learning.

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About the Initiative

Head Start sites can apply to receive Kid Spark’s Early Childhood STEM & Literacy Program at a significantly reduced cost through this initiative. Each site will receive a complete, ready-to-implement program that brings hands-on STEM and literacy learning to young learners.
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Early Inventors STEM Lab

Hands-on kits with durable, reusable engineering materials designed for young learners. Each lab supports 1–2 students and is built so every child can actively participate, build, and invent.

Sites receive 4 STEM Labs, supporting up to 8 students at a time.

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Storytime Inventing Book Collection

A curated collection of 12 children’s books that connect early literacy with hands-on STEM learning. Titles are age-appropriate and include a mix of fiction and nonfiction, with select books supporting sports-themed lessons developed with Special Olympics Washington.

Sites receive 1 Book Collection (12 titles).

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Printed Curriculum Booklets

A structured, easy-to-use curriculum that helps young learners build foundational STEM and literacy skills through reading, building, and invention.

Sites receive 4 printed curriculum booklets, along with access to an online library of educator resources.

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Professional Learning

Training and ongoing support that help educators confidently implement and sustain the program in the classroom.

Educators participate in virtual training and have ongoing access to videos, resources, and monthly support webinars.

Program Cost

The Kid Spark Early Childhood STEM & Literacy Program package offered through this initiative is valued at approximately $1,544 per site. Approved sites receive significant cost support, reducing the total cost to $450–$750 per site, based on site size and available funding.

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A Strong Foundation for Head Start Learners

Our partnership with Head Start shows what is possible when early educators are supported with hands-on materials, a structured curriculum, and meaningful training. Children build early STEM and literacy skills that prepare them for success in kindergarten and beyond.

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Explore the Curriculum

The program includes more than 20 lessons that build early STEM fluencies and strengthen literacy development. Grounded in Universal Design for Learning (UDL), the lessons are accessible and engaging for all learners.

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STEM Foundations Lessons

Build the core knowledge and skills that lay the groundwork for all future STEM learning. Introduce children to early math, problem-solving, and engineering concepts through hands-on exploration.

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Storytime Inventing Lessons

Connect children’s books with hands-on STEM themes that deepen comprehension and vocabulary while inviting students to test ideas, explore concepts, and invent creative solutions.

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All lessons are aligned with national standards, including NGSS, Common Core, Head Start, and CASEL, ensuring the program is developmentally appropriate and supports school readiness.

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The Power of STEM + Literacy

When literacy and STEM are integrated, young learners strengthen academic skills while also building confidence as problem-solvers. Kid Spark's Early Childhood STEM & Literacy Program promotes growth in both areas by helping children:

  • Build vocabulary and comprehension
  • Strengthen problem-solving and design thinking
  • Develop spatial awareness and fine motor skills
  • Practice perseverance and collaboration
  • Foster early STEM identity and confidence

Did you know: By 3rd grade, one in three children already believe STEM is “not for them.” Kid Spark’s Early Childhood STEM & Literacy Program helps change that story by fostering confidence early.

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Support the Initiative

The Head Start STEM & Literacy Initiative is built to expand access to high-quality STEM and literacy learning in Head Start classrooms across the country.

Our goal is to make this opportunity available to every Head Start program nationwide, reaching thousands of classrooms and millions of young learners.

Initial funding for this initiative has been provided through the San Diego Foundation, helping make this opportunity possible.

We are now seeking additional partners to expand access and reach more children.

Partner With Us
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Request a Grant Application

Fill out the form below to request a Grant Application for a reduced-cost Kid Spark program through the Head Start STEM & Literacy Initiative.
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