Reach Across the Stars helps kids practice and improve the following skills:

Flexibility: Trying something new. 

Users can practice their flexibility skills by trying something new and learning about female scientists who have made significant contributions to science. The app features over 24 women from around the world in fields ranging from computer programming to astronomy to geology. For users who do not have much knowledge of women in science, this app is a perfect way to try something new and learn about their past and current contributions. 

For older children using the app or website, trying something new can also mean looking at potential careers in science and technology. The website features downloadable career templates and the app features a selfie section where the child can put their own picture in a frame with the career listed. The user can see a wide variety of jobs and try to learn about a potential career in science.  

Organization: Organizing one’s ideas. 

When writing an email or asking a question, organizing your thoughts is important. There are several scientists on the Reach Across the Stars app who have an option where the users can send them a question. For users who need to practice organizing their thoughts, this app would allow them to practice crafting a short question that contains relevant information and gets their point across. Because the app does not allow for a full interview or a long email, users can ask smaller questions and practice their organization skills at the same time.