At the 2026 Youth Enrichment Services (YES) End of Year Showcase, 10-year-old Ayden wasted no time recruiting guests to his science station, where he demonstrated what happens when you mix baking soda and vinegar together.

Carefully pouring the ingredients into a small plastic bag, he guided guests through each step of the process until it was time for the big reveal.

“Now hold it up to your ear! You’ll hear it popping,” he said eagerly.

Ayden is one of 40 elementary-aged students enrolled in YES, an after-school enrichment program that brings hands-on learning, skill building, and career exploration to students at Apple Grove Elementary in Fort Washington, Maryland.

Learning Through Exploration

This year’s Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM)-focused curriculum encouraged students to experiment, create, and connect classroom learning to the world around them. Through engaging activities, students in the YES program strengthen skills like teamwork, communication, and problem solving while building confidence in their own ideas and abilities.

Ayden’s mother, ZsaZsa, discovered the program while exploring after-school childcare options for her son.

“The school was giving me all the options and encouraged me to look at the YES program. When I saw that it was more than just aftercare, I knew this would be a perfect fit for Ayden,” she said. “He’s very hands-on. He loves learning, and he’s really gravitating toward science and gardening. The YES program is allowing him to explore those interests in a structured, educational environment.”

Building Skills for the Future

In addition to STEAM activities, YES introduces students to professionals and real-world topics that help them begin building important life skills. During the 2026 school year, students participated in age-appropriate lessons on financial planning, gardening, and business administration.

For Ayden, YES is a place where he can explore his interests, try new things, and see his ideas come to life.

“I like the YES Program because I get to make new inventions. I get to socialize with other people and do fun activities here,” he said.

For ZsaZsa, one of the clearest signs that YES has made an impact is how much Ayden looks forward to being there.

“He’s usually one of the last kids picked up because he doesn’t want to leave,” she said. “If I come early, he’ll cry because he wants to stay and keep doing the activities.”

Next year, ZsaZsa said she will be first in line to sign Ayden up again.