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 at Apple Grove Elementary in Fort Washington, Maryland, that combines hands-on learning, skill building, and career 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 while building skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.

Ayden’s mother, ZsaZsa, knew YES was the right fit because it offered more than aftercare.

“He’s very hands-on. He loves learning, and he’s really gravitating toward science and gardening,” she said.

For Ayden, YES is a place to explore, create, and connect. In fact, he’s often one of the last students picked up because he doesn’t want to leave.