Colleen Bowman, the founder of Susquehanna Kids, said the program is supported by DegenSTEAM Academy, a new initiative of the 1994 Charles B. Degenstein Foundation, as well as a PA Smart grant. One of the events took place Wednesday afternoon at the Lewisburg YMCA, located in the Miller Center for Recreation and Wellness at 120 Hardwood Drive.
Learning about AI is critical, Bowman said.
“We want to make sure every kid in the Valley can learn about and explore AI and coding,” Bowman said. “The importance is twofold. First, it’s exposure, to let them see what it looks like and to give them resources to experience it on their own. Second, we can show educators how user-friendly it is.”
The Hour of AI is a worldwide movement that aims to introduce millions of students to computer science through one-hour coding activities. The goal is to demystify coding and show that anyone can learn the basics, inspiring future interest in computer science.
The hands-on program introduces kids to foundational AI concepts using lessons from trusted organizations, including LEGO Education, Google, Minecraft Education and others, all curated on a single platform by Code.org. The goal is to help students better understand the technology shaping the world around them, Bowman said.
The workshop is age-appropriate, interactive and focused on the safe, responsible use of AI. Students do not need to bring any devices or materials, as all equipment will be provided. During the session, students will explore what AI actually is and what it is not, how people use AI in everyday life and why creative problem-solving, not computers, continues to drive innovation, Bowman said.
On Wednesday, 12 students attended the Lewisburg session, including William Morris, 9, and Rebecca Willie, 11, both of Lewisburg.
“I personally think I’m great with computers,” Rebecca said. “My mom taught me how to work with code. I once programmed a Lego robot to speak.”
William said he has STEAM classes in school, so he hopes this lesson helps with those classes.
Carolyn Reitz, youth director at the Lewisburg YMCA, said she is also a teacher.
“As technology grows, we need to expose kids to the proper ways to use it,” Reitz said. “We need to give them the experience now and guide them so they can be responsible in using it.”
Reitz said the program gives students a fun and welcoming introduction to AI while also emphasizing safety, creativity and curiosity.
The Hour of AI has different lessons depending on the grade level.
Visit susquehannakids.com for more information.
© 2025 The Daily Item (Sunbury, Pa.). Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
