Make Math come to life with the SPARK Progam!
Help your child discover the excitement of math through hands-on projects, creative technology, and interactive challenges. The SPARK Program makes numeracy fun and meaningful for students in Grades 3–5, connecting classroom math to real-world applications while building confidence, creativity, and collaboration skills.
- For students in grades 3-5
- Eight interactive, 2-hour workshops
Make Math come to life with the SPARK Progam!
Help your child discover the excitement of math through hands-on projects, creative technology, and interactive challenges. The SPARK Program connects math to real-world applications while building confidence, creativity, and collaboration skills.
- For students in grades 3-5
- Eight interactive, 2-hour workshops
- Completely FREE for participants!
Why SPARK Program?
Build Strong Math Foundations
Help students strengthen their understanding of number sense, measurement, geometry, and algebra through activities that connect mathematical concepts to everyday life.
Explore Tech Through Creativity
Students use exciting digital tools, from coding games to designing 3D models to bring their ideas to life while developing problem-solving and computational thinking skills.
Grow Confidence and Life Skills
Students practice teamwork, communication, goal setting, and emotional regulation. Every workshop encourages curiosity, perseverance, and the confidence to take on new challenges.
Accessible Learning Opportunities
The SPARK Program could be offered FREE of charge through our community partners, helping more students access engaging STEM learning experiences and discover their potential.
Workshops
Eva Rothwell Centre
- Location: 460 Wentworth St N, Hamilton, ON L8L 5W8
- Start Date: October 14, 2026
- End Date: December 2, 2026
- Day of the Week: Wednesdays
- Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Cost: FREE! Only 20 spots available for each workshop
Bennetto Elementary School
Session A
- Location: 47 Simcoe St E, Hamilton, ON L8L 3N2
- Start Date: October 13, 2026
- End Date: December 1, 2026
- Day of the Week: Tuesdays
- Time: 3:40 PM – 5:40 PM
- Cost: FREE! Only 20 spots available for each workshop
Session B
- Location: 47 Simcoe St E, Hamilton, ON L8L 3N2
- Start Date: October 15, 2026
- End Date: December 3, 2026
- Day of the Week: Thursdays
- Time: 3:40 PM – 5:40 PM
- Cost: FREE! Only 20 spots available for each workshop
1. Introduction
Introduction to program —Explore mathematical logic and computer science concepts.
2. Coordinates & Constellations
Learn spatial reasoning and coordinate graphing by using Desmos to recreate constellations like Ursa Major.
3. Measurements with Slime
Learn about measurements and conversions and put those skills to the test by creating the strechiest slime.
4. Shoot for The Stars
Design a rocket-asteroid game using Scratch, exploring geometric concepts like angles and the Cartesian plane.
5. Third Dimension
Learn Geometry and how to use the program Tinkercad to construct a 3D model and print it out.
6. Code your Own Traffic Lights
Design and code a simulated traffic light circuit using Arduino, and learn about timed sequences, LED control, and unit conversions for time!
7. Operator Olympics
Explore basic math operators through real-life examples, hands-on activities, and an exciting Scratch game.
8. Math-Scape Room
Apply previous learning in a collaborative escape room challenge.
What They Say about SPARK
“Our son loved talking about his experiences, and was always proud of his participation in games being played (I believe Kahoot was one). I know he has a genuine interest in STEM related subjects (science, math, maybe a little engineering), so we find it really valuable to have time in his week where they’re brought into the forefront. The program is greatly appreciated.”
SPARK Program Parent
“As always, the program continues to build meaningful skills that students carry with them into the school year. I regularly check in with students attending SPARK, and they never fail to amaze me with their excitement and eagerness for each session. I’ve especially noticed that students who typically struggle with math often feel the most confident and encouraged during SPARK. Thank you for providing this opportunity for them!“
Patrick Pfeiffer
YMCA Beyond The Bell
See SPARK in action!
At SPARK, learning goes beyond worksheets and traditional lessons. Students build, design, code, and experiment as they explore mathematical ideas in new ways.
Every workshop, from creating digital games to constructing 3D models and tackling team challenges, gives students opportunities to put their skills into practice and learn through discovery.
Community Partners
The SPARK Program is available for free through the following community partners:
Thank You to Our Funders
The SPARK Program is proudly funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s Grow Grant and its funder, the Government of Ontario, Hamilton Community Foundation, the R.R McCann and Family Foundation and TC Energy Build Strong Grants, and is offered in partnership with McMaster University – Department of Math and Stats!
