WHY TINKER BOXES?
Research shows that when there is a disconnect between school and home or community life, students can feel like science is impractical or in contradiction with their lives, which may be one of the most important reasons why some students don’t engage deeply in science. Research also shows that young people develop both interest and skills in STEM when someone from their family is involved.
WHAT ARE THEY?
4-H Tinker Boxes will allow families to experience 4-H STEM activities at home as a self-paced family project. Families will have the opportunity to request a tinker box using the link below. Quantities are limited and we do request that families request one box per child at this time. If you have two kids around the same age that can work together, please do so in order to allow as many families to participate as possible. If a waitlist is necessary, all who are moved to the waitlist will be notified via email. All those who will receive a box will also be notified once boxes ship.
The boxes are FREE and are themed with national celebrations and holidays. As families register, they will be invited to also register for an event or events to either showcase their work or to join the 4-H STEM team online for guidance on how to complete the activity. The boxes will be offered for delivery once a month. Please note that when the amount available runs out for that month, there will not be any more.
PHOTOS & VIDEOS
Families will be asked to share pictures and videos to a private folder in OneDrive. They may also share their work via social media using the hashtags provided in the letter for the box. The photo/video release is included in the registration.
PROJECT EVALUATION
A very important component of this pilot is the evaluation. Please make sure that you complete the activities/challenges within a month of receipt and that the evaluation is returned. We will not be able to continue this effort beyond this year without data that says that is working. You will be able to receive boxes throughout the year, however, those who do not return the evaluation may be moved to the waitlist
