Inspired by a goal to close education gaps through transformational hands-on learning, Learning Lunchboxes connects students, families, and underserved youth with science.
Created for K-8 learners, each box has 5 activities, all materials, and links to digital tools such as translation and extension resources. The content increases diversity and equity in STEAM and inspires youth towards related pathways while providing parents & educators with a framework to increase engagement and accelerate learning.
The Learning Lunchbox program was designed to bridge the STEAM education gap with underserved youth. Powered by partnerships with the White House, NASA, the State Department and many others, COSI works with human service organizations like food banks as well as formal and informal learning partners to distribute the boxes.
The activities in COSI’s Learning Lunchboxes bring science themes to life, including space, nature, dinosaurs, engineering, and more – from batteries to binoculars, every item needed to complete the activity is included in the box. Each theme is created in alignment with both state and national learning standards. Each Learning Lunchbox also features digital extensions through Connects – COSI’s online platform and free mobile app with digital download capabilities, designed to serve those without digital infrastructure and resources.
COSI distributes thousands of free Learning Lunchboxes both nationally and internationally alongside local school districts, nonprofits, meal providers, museums and food banks at no cost to participating families. The COSI Learning Lunchbox program is working to feed hungry lives and minds – all while fulfilling educational needs and human services.
Since 2020, nearly 400,000 Learning Lunchboxes have been distributed to underserved youth in more than 35 states and seven countries. Results from COSI’s data collection show that the Learning Lunchbox is an effective tool to accelerate learning in underserved communities, classrooms, and homes.
