Ohio 4-H got kids excited about all things STEM at the third annual “We Grow Scientists” event on April 30. Hosted by The Ohio State University’s College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES) as part of the COSI Science Festival, learners of all ages were invited to explore the Waterman Agricultural and Natural Resources Laboratory and engage in STEAM education activities.
The afternoon included hands-on learning and activities that taught visitors about the variety of careers CFAES offers in the world of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Booths featured representatives from departments across CFAES, including entomology; horticulture and crop science; 
and food, agricultural, and biological engineering, as well as Extension professionals and partner organizations like COSI and Ohio Soybean Council.
At the Ohio 4-H booth, attendees learned about all things bees as they created beeswax candles and bee hummers.
While making beeswax candles, 4-H professionals explained how beeswax is made and helped youth recognize the important role bees play in the ecosystem. Crafting bee hummers gave visitors the opportunity to understand why bees make a buzzing sound and learn about the ways bees help plants during pollination.
“We’re excited to be sparking curiosity through some hands-on fun!,” said Dr. Cynthia Canan, 4-H STEM specialist. 
“With the bee hummers, youth also got to learn about how incredible nature is—some bees can vibrate their bodies in a special way to shake pollen loose from flowers like tomatoes and blueberries, in a process called buzz pollination. That’s science you can hear!”
The 4-H Mobile Classroom was a big hit again this year, inviting families to escape the heat and learn more about the digital STEM education opportunities 4-H offers. Through a partnership with Apple, the 4-H Mobile Classroom gives Ohio 4-H the tools needed to introduce youth to coding, digital art, and digital music using iPads, Sphero robots, and other fun technology.
Franklin County 4-H also had a presence at the event, as 4-H professionals led youth through a hands-on physics activity where they designed, built, and launched their own straw rockets.
“Using paper, tape, straws, and modeling clay, participants experimented with different designs to test how shape and weight affect flight distance and accuracy—an engaging way to learn about force, motion, and aerodynamics,” said Rachel Stoneburner, the Franklin County 4-H program coordinator. “We also promoted the Franklin County 4-H program, encouraging families to get involved in youth STEM education and exploration.”
Want to learn more about STEAM opportunities offered through 4-H? Check out these at-home activities focused on soil science and pollination!