Where can my kid learn STEM?

STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. Though areas of STEM have been part of school curriculum for years, it’s tough to find classes in Engineering, coding, or robotics in a sixth grade classroom.

Today educators tout STEM as life skills vital for all kids to learn. It’s a way for our children and even parents to develop an improved grasp on the realities of our 21^st Century world.

Where can kids get the enrichment they’ll need to stay on top of the knowledge flooding their PCs? Below you’ll find four venues that are fun and will fit the bill:

1. Columbia Memorial Space Center (CMSC)- Located in Downey, California, CMSC is a hands on learning center dedicated to showing its audience of all ages the thrill of STEM.

At the end of October thrilling turns to chilling with CMSC’s annual Spooky Science Nights (October 28-29). You can visit the Halloween themed robotics lab, learn some creepy science, navigate through a spooky maze, and even dance to some ghoulish music. For 2016 CMSC has added a special attraction: Escape from Space, an escape room adventure.

During the remainder of the year, visitors can get immersed in hands-on exhibits like an astronaut suit, Challenger Learning Center, Robotics Lab, Paper Airplane Station, and a lot more.

2. California Science Center (CSC)- This is a state agency and museum in Exposition Park, Los Angeles. It is billed as the West Coast’s       largest hands-on science center.

In the Creative World exhibit kids and adults alike explore the inventions and environments humanity has created to meet our communication and transportation needs.

Starting October 15, 2016 the CSC will present the Science Behind Pixar Exhibition. It’s a12,000 sq. ft. interactive exhibition showcasing the science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts used by the artists and computer scientists who help bring Pixar’s award-winning films to the big screen.

3. KidsCanCode is an on-line teaching tool where children and teens can learn the basics of software engineering and develop a set of fundamental skills that will prove vital for the child’s future and the future of the global economy. Not only will kids learn STEM, but develop the ability to think outside the box.

 4. Typing.com is an on-line keyboarding course that teaches typing skills kids will need throughout middle school, high school, college, and beyond. The good news: It’s free!

As parents, we care about the health and welfare of our children. Ensuring that they learn STEM is a golden pathway to future lucrative careers. Today, there’s a growing disconnection between the skills needed for tech jobs and the talent to successfully accomplish those tasks. STEM is the solution.