Pure Play Every Day Inc., a Southern Maryland non-profit, is launching an initiative to bring hands-on science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) education to life with the creation of the STEAM Room, an interactive children’s museum designed by students for students. The project aims to foster curiosity and innovation by allowing middle and high school students to design exhibits that engage younger learners in STEAM concepts.
The community will have its first opportunity to experience this groundbreaking initiative at the STEAM Room Catalyst Event & Awards Ceremony on March 30, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum. The event will showcase student-designed exhibits and highlight the impact of interactive learning in preparing future generations for STEAM careers.
“We’re not just creating a museum. We’re building a pipeline—a ‘cradle-to-career’ path for young people to explore STEAM fields and envision their future right here in Southern Maryland,” said Patty Stine, Executive Director of Pure Play Every Day, Inc.
Southern Maryland has a strong STEAM-based economy, with careers in fields like aviation, defense, and engineering. However, many professionals relocate to the region as adults. Stine hopes this project will encourage local students to develop the skills they need to pursue STEAM careers without leaving their hometowns.
The inspiration for the project came after a visit to the Discovery Lab in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where Stine saw a community-driven approach to interactive STEAM education. The experience shaped her vision for a similar learning hub in Southern Maryland—one where students play an active role in designing exhibits and engaging in creative problem-solving.
Pure Play Every Day is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization focused on interactive learning through play. The group aims to foster collaboration, curiosity, and creativity by developing hands-on educational experiences that also promote sustainability through the use of recycled and repurposed materials.
While the STEAM Room is still in development, Pure Play Every Day has already begun implementing its vision in a 3,000-square-foot warehouse, where children engage in play-based learning and hands-on exploration. The upcoming event at the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum will offer a preview of what the full-scale museum could become and celebrate the contributions of young innovators in the community.
The STEAM Room Catalyst Event & Awards Ceremony will feature interactive exhibits, student showcases, and hands-on activities. Community members are encouraged to attend and support the project’s mission of inspiring future leaders in STEAM fields.
