4-H Science Fridays at UMaine Machias
Goals | Schedule | Registration
Engage in science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) topics and skills with 4-H staff and volunteers throughout the 2026 year! Targeted for youth ages 9-14, this program allows youth to explore a variety of STEAM projects through hands-on activities that build curiosity, confidence and a growth mindset.
Each month 4-H Science Fridays will have a specific theme. We will meet for an hour and a half, 3-4:30pm, at the University of Maine at Machias. The program is free, registration is encouraged, as the maximum number of participants is 12.
Scenes from past 4-H Science Fridays!
Goals
- Become more familiar with the University of Maine at Machias campus
- Engage in high quality STEAM activities that relate to youth interests and sparks
- Promote interest and enjoyment in STEAM
- Foster a sense of belonging with peers and adults
Schedule
January 23, 2026 – Coastal Watersheds
Explore coastal watersheds using a 3D enviroscape model! Youth will interact with the model to demonstrate coastal pollution sources and prevention, while gaining understanding about watersheds.
February 27, 2026 – Thin Ice-walkers
How do we know when ice is thick enough to walk on? How can we learn from polar bears who have developed adaptations to avoid breaking the ice they live on? We’ll explore this together by testing objects on an ice slide, playing games, and learning about technology that can keep us safe on the ice.
March 13, 2026- Maple Sugaring
Did you know that the top Maple Syrup producing county in the United States is right here in Maine? Although Somerset county is the heart of Maine’s maple production, Mainer’s produce maple on all scales from innovative shacks to backyard boiling, and have for generations. Learn about the steps of maple production and the optimal weather conditions to make it all happen, while enjoying some Grade A samples.
April 17, 2026 – Balloon Shuttles
What do rockets and balloons have in common? Newton’s Third Law of Motion, of course!
Other 2026 Dates…more information coming soon!
May 15, 2026 – Topic to be determined.
June 12, 2026 – Topic to be determined.
July 10, 2026 – Topic to be determined.
August 28, 2026 – Topic to be determined.
September 18, 2026 – Topic to be determined.
October 2026- Date and Topic to be determined.
Registration
For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation, contact Gabby Brodek, 4-H Youth Development Professional at gabrielle.brodek@maine.edu or 207.255.3345.
In complying with the letter and spirit of applicable laws and pursuing its own goals of diversity, the University of Maine System does not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, familial status, ancestry, age, disability physical or mental, genetic information, or veterans or military status in employment, education, and all other programs and activities. The University provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Director of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Services, 5713 Chadbourne Hall, Room 412, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469-5713, 207.581.1226, TTY 711 (Maine Relay System).