STEAM Tales is a series of stories that engage students in thinking about problems with a STEAM mindset. STEAMStart is a long-range project with short-term modules and single day activities. STEAMStart builds from the simple need to construct a "home" to the very complex structures required to bridge a river. STEAMStart presents "literacy components" in the Book of Childrens' Stories for grades K, 1, and 2, STEAMStart projects meet cross-cutting standards and authentic assessment with math at every turn and corner (as well as edge and vertex). Outcomes require patience to design reasonable solutions to real-world problems. In the process, students use core skills in aesthetically beautiful project-based learning. Fabrication requires the development of a logical sequence and network: build spatial awareness; use math skills in real world challenges; develop problem-solving tools; increase manual dexterity and attention to detail.