PLI #5
National Conference in Anaheim • April 15, 2026
Full-Day Workshop
Stories that Spark Science: Harnessing NSTA Kids™ and Award-Winning Children’s Books
Preconference • Wednesday, April 15 • 8:15 AM - 3:15 PM
All participants will receive breakfast and lunch.
LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE
$150
Conference registration is NOT required to attend.
About the Session
Ignite your students’ curiosity and imagination with science stories that bring learning to life! In this full-day, hands-on session, Stories that Spark Science: Harnessing NSTA Kids and Award-Winning Children's Books, we will dive into a treasure trove of children’s literature perfect for connecting literacy and science.
The morning will be an inspiring journey through three engaging segments:
- The Next Time You See Series - Explore this beloved NSTA Kids series, discover strategies for using it in your classroom or program, and hear real-world examples of how these books inspire wonder and inquiry.
- Spotlight on New and Timeless NSTA Kids™ Books - From timeless favorites to exciting new releases, you’ll get a guided tour of NSTA Kids™ titles and supporting resources, along with practical tips for bringing them to life for your learners.
- Award-Winning Reads: NSTA–CBC Best STEM Books & Outstanding Science Trade Books - Discover the rigorous criteria behind these celebrated titles, explore engaging strategies to bring them into your classroom, and uncover meaningful connections to NSTA Press resources that deepen student learning.
Along the way, we’ll model strategies for selecting high-quality literature, building text sets that support a range of learning needs, and integrating science and literacy seamlessly. You’ll also have time to browse the books, exchange ideas with fellow educators, and explore valuable NSTA resources.
In the afternoon, roll up your sleeves and turn inspiration into action! Collaborating in grade-band groups, you’ll develop lesson plans and activities using the featured books, aligned with shared themes and standards. Plus, you’ll have the chance to win a free NSTA Kids™ “Text Set” to kick-start your own classroom library.
Come ready to read, collaborate, and leave with ready-to-use lessons, fresh ideas, and practical resources to spark your students' excitement for science through the power of story.
Presented by:
Presenters
Jennifer C. Williams
Best STEM Book chairperson
Lower School Science Department Chair
Isidore Newman School
Anne Lowry
NSTA Division Director for Early Childhood – Elementary Science Teaching PreK teacher
Aleph Academy
Dr. Katie Morrison
Dean of the Graduate School of Education
University of Child Development School
Dr. Simone Nance
Assistant Professor of Teacher Education
University of Southern Indiana
Dr. Melissa Parks
Associate Professor of Education
Stetson University
Patricia Vermillion
NSTA Press Author
Rina Zampieron
Statewide Early Education Manager
Mass Audubon