Jump Start 2026

How can a simple deck of cards teach deep mathematical thinking? This hands-on workshop explores how elementary afterschool educators can use simple magic tricks to reinforce foundational math concepts in a high-engagement setting. Participants will analyze how card matrices and number puzzles serve as playful, concrete representations of abstract ideas like place value, operations, and pattern recognition.Rather than just learning tricks, you will discover how to guide young learners to look past the "magic" and use logic to explain how the math works. You will walk away with an interactive toolkit of easy-to-teach routines, printable resources, and differentiation strategies perfectly suited for the relaxed, high-energy environment of afterschool programs.

In this training, educators will learn best practices for implementing the STEM Goals program and curriculum, gain free access to the Learn Fresh program management platform and all program materials, and learn about opportunities to extend students’ learning through virtual and in-person community events. Educators will immediately gain access to all materials needed to begin implementing with students in their programs and classrooms.

Bring hands-on STEAM learning to life with PCS Edventures! This interactive session showcases engaging, play-based activities designed to spark curiosity and creativity in young learners. Explore three dynamic stations tailored to different grade levels: Cubelets Bot Builder introduces engineering and robotics, Rockin’ Robots with Sphero indi combines coding and music, Ready Set Drone! builds teamwork and problem-solving skills through mini-drone challenges. Discover how these activities promote critical thinking, collaboration, and a love for STEM while making learning fun and accessible for all students. Walk away with ideas to elevate your program with interactive, age-appropriate experiences!

This training will benefit program coordinators and staff who are interested in building leadership skills in youth.You will learn to teach tangible leadership skills that youth can practice within the afterschool environment and carry into their adult lives. These include peer mentoring, conflict resolution, activity planning, service learning, group leadership, and advocacy.This training will equip you with tools and strategies to cultivate a strong youth leadership component in your program. By empowering youth to take ownership, serve as positive role models, and lead with purpose, you can boost engagement, improve program quality, and create a more meaningful and impactful afterschool environment.

Discover how confidence, self-esteem, self-care, and connection can impact learning, resilience, relationships, and a child’s ability to thrive. This engaging session will give after-school professionals practical strategies for creating environments where children feel valued, capable, and connected. We’ll also explore the importance of caring for ourselves while caring for others, because you can’t pour from an empty cup. No magic wand required, just compassion, connection, and understanding that one caring adult can make a lasting difference in a child’s learning by improving confidence and self-esteem.

Unlock the hidden math in every melody! This hands-on workshop equips afterschool educators with dynamic, "stealth math" strategies to teach foundational math concepts through high-energy music activities. Instead of worksheets, you will learn to use rhythm, song, instruments, and dance to reinforce learning naturally. Participants will actively jump, drum, and sing their way through interactive lessons. By the end of this session, you will have a ready-to-use toolkit of active musical experiences that make math feel like play.

Mention "STEM" to afterschool educators, and you'll often hear two things: excitement for high engagement, or anxiety over mess, noise, and feeling out of their depth.This interactive session proves why STEM is worth the chaos. Participants will discover how hands-on activities build critical skills like problem-solving, collaboration, and perseverance. Attendees will jump into a hands-on design challenge, explore a showcase of STEM projects for every budget, and learn how to tap into local Utah funding and lending libraries. Leave with low-cost strategies and the confidence to run winning STEM experiences!