The Y.E.S. (Youth Experiences In Science) Program is a division of 4H that was developed by UC Davis. The program teaches children (first through third grade) how to observe and hypothesize and prepare for the future when they may need the skill.

Importance of Science After School
Children need science activities in after school programs for many reasons. The emphasis schools place on increasing reading, writing and math test scores leaves little, if any, time in the elementary school day for science education time in the elementary school day for science education. Many classroom teachers, especially those who teach in low-income neighborhoods where test scores often lag, admit to placing little emphasis on science. In addition, a growing number of after school programs identify academic achievement for youth as a primary goal. Science is at the root of discovery and an excellent vehicle for strenghtening deductive reasoning and problem solving skills. But perhaps the most important reason including a science component in after school settings is that it's fun. Children enjoy the active process of exploring, of questioning, and learning about their world.

Exploring With, Not Teaching About
All science, whether it's biology, chemistry, anthropology, or psychology, is about asking questions and seeking answers. The curiosity children possess make them natural explorers. Scientists don't make discoveries by being told the answers, but by making observations, organizing information, and drawing conclusions. The key for those teaching science in non- formal settings is to resist giving answers to children's questions, and to encourage young thinkers to arrive at their own conclusions.