About 4-H STEM
4-H STEM programs provide youth opportunities to learn about Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) through hands-on learning in clubs, schools, grant-funded programs, and more! Focus areas include computer science, robotics, aerospace, physics, and engineering. There is a tremendous need for young people to know how to create technology, not just consume it. This is true across every industry, and that’s why these STEM programs focus on problem solving, encourage creative and critical thinking, and inspire kids to explore engineering and technology opportunities that will help prepare them for college, career and life.
4-H Computer Science Education Week
Join the statewide challenge to complete one or more AI-related lessons in celebration of 4-H Computer Science Education Week, December 8–14. This is your chance to Give AI a Try and discover how technology is shaping our future.
The Challenge
Adults and teen leaders are invited to lead fun, hands-on AI educational activities with youth in their community. Whether in a club, classroom, afterschool program, or at home, young people can explore how technology works while strengthening problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Activities are quick and flexible—some take as little as 20 minutes—and can be adapted for different settings and levels of technology access. They are designed for grades 4–12, with younger youth welcome to participate with support. No 4-H membership is required, making it easy for anyone to get involved.
How to Participate
- Register to access the free activity library and receive invitations to optional training opportunities. The activity library will open on October 24.
- Choose your lesson(s) and take the challenge to Give AI a Try anytime between December 8–14, 2025. If your schedule doesn’t allow that week, you’re welcome to complete the activities at another time.
- Report back to let us know how it went and how many youth participated. Your feedback helps us reach our goal of bringing AI learning to youth in all 46 South Carolina counties—and beyond!
South Carolina 4-H Expands AI Education with Google.org Grant
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is already part of everyday life—powering tools like voice assistants, facial recognition, online recommendations, and even helping farmers monitor crops and livestock. Thanks to a generous grant funded by Google.org, South Carolina 4-H is preparing youth to understand and use AI responsibly, empowering them to shape how it’s applied in their communities and future careers.
Through this initiative, South Carolina 4-H has set a goal of reaching over 15,000 youth with AI Education by May 2026. We’re accomplishing this by:
- Providing ready-to-use classroom and club activities
- Hosting statewide challenges like the 4-H AI Challenge
- Featuring hands-on exhibits at events such as the State Fair and STEM Expo
- Offering interactive kits that make AI learning engaging and accessible for all youth
For more information, please contact Abigail Phillips, 4-H STEM Grant Coordinator at atimmon@clemson.edu
SC 4-H Engineering Challenge
The South Carolina 4-H Engineering Challenge began in 2012 and has grown to over 400 youth competitors annually! Youth that participate in this competition report increased confidence and knowledge in science skills. Held at the South Carolina State Fairgrounds in Columbia, SC each spring, the annual event offers several hands-on challenges available for youth 9-18 years old such as coding, robotics, bridge building, and rocketry, and youth ages 5-8 are invited to participate in the visual arts challenge. In addition to STEM-based challenges for youth competition, there is an interactive STEAM Expo with multiple vendors, free to any participant or family member.
SAVE THE DATE! The 2026 SC 4-H Engineering Challenge will be held on Tuesday, March 17! More information coming soon!
Local County Programs
Your local county Extension office offers additional 4-H programming. Learn more about local opportunities.
Upcoming Events
Get in Touch
Alana W. West
4-H Youth Development Program
1860 Wilson Rd
Newberry, S.C. 29108
803-768-8442
