New year, new start!

It’s the perfect time to get your STEM in a Box® programs organized and ready to inspire! With so many exciting tools and activities, it's easy for things to get a bit mixed up. Use the tips below to get your STEM in a Box in tip-top shape.

1. Inventory Time! 
Before you dive into organizing, make sure you have everything you need. Use your packing slip as a checklist to verify that all the tools and components are accounted for. Check for any missing pieces so you can address them before your STEM adventures begin. Click here for help.

2. Sort and Conquer! 
Once you've confirmed your inventory, it's time to sort those STEM treasures. We recommend organizing your tools by STEM categories, our Stations of STEM® (robotics, circuitry, coding, etc.). Zip top bags are your best friend here. Use them to keep all the components for each station together, preventing those small pieces from getting lost in the STEM shuffle. Now that everything is sorted, it's time to create an organizational system that works for you. Here are a few ideas to get started:

3. Create Your STEM Command Center! 

Now that everything is sorted, it's time to create an organizational system that works for you. Here are a few ideas to get started:

• Tubs with labels: Clear plastic tubs with labels make it easy to see and access materials for each station. Station of STEM Avery label templates can be downloaded and printed.  Click here for a label set. 
• Bags labeled and divided by station: Take a look at the product boxes in your STEM in a Box. Are there any that would be easier to store in large zip-top bags? This can be a great way to keep all the pieces for each station together and prevent them from getting lost. Plus, it makes it super easy to move your STEM materials between classrooms or share them with other teachers. 
• Check boxes with sturdiness: How well are your boxes holding up? Sturdy boxes can keep larger tools or kits organized and protected.
• Add mobility for easy transport: Check out our STEM cart for an easy way to transport and store your STEM tools. 
• Center signs or station signs: Locate your station signs and if any are damaged, you can easily repair them with a little tape or glue. Or, if they're beyond repair, reach out to our team for printable templates. To make your signs last longer, we recommend laminating them. Here's a cool tip: make a triangle stand by taping two signs back-to-back! This helps students easily see which centers or stations are open and ready for exploration.

By following these simple tips, you'll be well on your way to a well-organized and inspiring STEM learning environment. A little organization goes a long way in ensuring that your STEM in a Box programs run smoothly!

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