STEAM Workshops
DiscoverU’s science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) programs get students in ages 8–18 excited to learn and explore new subjects.
These hands-on workshops include computer programming, engineering, geology, and more. Past events have included pop-up planetariums, team design challenges, assembling mini-robots, and coding camps. Events update quarterly.
June
Game Jam 2026
Tuesday, June 2, 2026 - Saturday, June 13, 2026 | 12:00 - 3:30 p.m.
Paradise Hills Library | Ages 12-18 | Register Here
Dive into the world of video games at SDPL’s 4th annual Game Jam! Learn the basics of game development and design, then collaborate in teams to build your own game. Teams can work together remotely or in-person to complete their projects and attend optional drop-in sessions. Games will be showcased at the end of the jam.
Piñata Science
Friday, June 5, 2026| 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Otay Mesa-Nestor Library| Ages 8-12 | Register Here
There's always fun to be had with piñatas! Join us to learn how piñatas are constructed, the different materials they're made of, and how it all affects the science of force. Participants will have the opportunity to make their own piñatas.
Science of Tortillas
Tuesday, June 16, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
North Clairemont Library| Ages 8-14 | Register Here
Explore what goes into making a tortilla! In this hands-on program, learn about the cultural background of tortilla-making as well as the physical and chemical changes that occur as the dough is formed, pressed, and cooked.
Cochineal & Natural Dyes
Thursday, June 18, 2026 | 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Skyline Hills Library | Ages 8-12 | Register Here
Explore the science behind natural dyes! Learn about the cochineal, a small-scale insect that has been used for centuries to produce vibrant red and pink dyes, and other natural dyes. Participants will also gain an understanding of chemistry, specifically acid and base reactions.
Learn Scratch: Flower Game | Taste of Technology
Tuesday, June 23, 2026|4:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Paradise Hills Library| Ages 10-12 | Register Here
Try your hand at computer programming! Learn the basics of computer programming while creating your own flower catching game in Scratch.
Automotive Design
Friday, June 26, 2026| 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 8-12 | Register Here
Get your imagination flowing and explore the fascinating automobile engineering and design field! Explore the many parts that go into making an automobile work. This course is designed to inform and empower aspiring engineers and designers.
Cochineal & Natural Dyes
Tuesday, June 30, 2026| 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Mountain View/Beckwourth Library | Ages 12-18 | Register Here
Explore the science behind natural dyes! Learn about the cochineal, a small-scale insect that has been used for centuries to produce vibrant red and pink dyes, and other natural dyes. Participants will also gain an understanding of chemistry, specifically acid and base reactions.
August
Scratch Challenges Olympics | Taste of Technology
Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
La Jolla/Riford Library | Ages 11 - 14 | Register Here
Travel back in time! In this hands-on program, explore various types of technology, such as typewriters, phones, and AI, from different time periods and how they have evolved as you consider how technology impacts society in the past, present, and future.
Binary Bracelet: 10 Ways of Fun | Taste of Technology
Wednesday, August 12, 2026 | 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 8-12 | Register Here
Explore computer science in a unique way! Learn how computers represent information using binary code by converting names, words, numbers, and simple messages into binary patterns to make keychains or bracelets.
September
Tech Time Travelers: Technology Impacts through Time | Taste of Technology
Wednesday, September 9, 2026 | 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 8-12 | Register Here
Travel back in time! In this hands-on program, explore various types of technology, such as typewriters, phones, and AI, from different time periods and how they have evolved as you consider how technology impacts society in the past, present, and future.
Code.org Ocean Explorer: Tech Support | Taste of Technology
Wednesday, September 23, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:30 p.m.
San Ysidro Library | Ages 8 - 14 | Register Here
Engage in ocean science in a unique way! In this hands-on program, participants will apply and develop their computer programming skills while making STEM connections as they solve problems and explore marine life and environmental science in code.org.