Legos and robotics, and STEM. Oh my!

I tend to pass on a lot of information about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs because I am concerned that black children, especially black girls, are underrepresented in the hard sciences. In fact, the situation is so dire for all Americans that President Obama has repeatedly discussed the need for more STEM teachers and U.S. trained technology workers in his State Of The Union speeches.

The National Society of Black Engineers’ (NSBE) is also understandably alarmed at data showing that number of black students in STEM is critically low which spells trouble for all of our children's future. In order to create an infrastructure that is friendly to our children, we need more black children studying STEM now. Those children will go on to be STEM professors and professionals and as such role models who can encourage our children into this lucrative and rewarding field. In order to increase interest in STEM, the NSBE has a free summer program to reach out underrepresented minorities. Please check out the program and make a note of it on your calendar because the deadline is coming up soon.

‍Libraries are doing their part

‍Another option for parents who are interested in exposing their kids to STEM, is to check out their local libraries. Libraries all over the country are now offering Lego and robotics clubs for kids 7 and up for free. Unfortunately, my local library is only able to offer a one time program because of budget cuts but I am still happy that I will get the opportunity to introduce Biker Boy to STEM at an early age. Besides he loves all things Lego and robots so this will be another opportunity for him to learn through play. Just to give you an idea of what other libraries are doing, I've posted information below from the Cuyahoga County Library:

‍Learn how to build and program robots using LEGO™ MindStorms

Robotix Kids Club

‍Ages 7-10

Love to build with LEGO and looking for a new adventure with like minded friends? Join us each month as we build STEM skills and explore the world of WeDo robots. Spaces are limited in this hands-on program, so please register for only the dates you can attend.

‍New! Robotix Club for Teens

‍Grades 6-12

Join the club to find out how to teach our robots new tricks in the world of Lego Mindstorms. Program and build robots to master challenges in this monthly robotics program for middle and high school students

‍First Lego League

For kids who are ready for a more structured program, the First Lego League (FLL) program seems like the perfect option. You have to watch a video to really get a feel for this innovative program because I don't think my description will do it justice. Kids make robotic Legos and attend tournaments where they battle it out against other FLL groups. I can pretty much guarantee that your (not so) little Lego lover will be blown away if you sign him or her up for the Lego League.

‍STEM for the younger set

‍It's never too early to introduce your kids to STEM just ask the youngest mobile app inventor, Zora Ball, who created an app at only seven years old! There are a lot of fun projects on Pinterest that I plan to check out with my little one such as this hovercraft project made out of re-used materials and a balloon. As you can see it's easy to add some STEM to the reading, writing, and arithmetic.

Be sure to leave some STEM project ideas in the comments.

Yardyspice