STEM Classes for Columbus Kids
STEM classes have been increasing in popularity around Columbus. The acronym stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math -- four of the highest-paying career tracks. In an effort to encourage kids to develop skills in these areas from a younger age, many schools are adopting STEM curriculums, and other organizations are offering STEM enrichment classes. This list includes the best STEM classes around Columbus for your kids!
Mathnasium: The Math Learning Center
Hannah Scott: Mathnasium was created to give kids confidence through a complete understanding of math (rather than feeling confused and intimidated). Instructors teach using the "Mathnasium Method" which begins by assessing your child's current level of understanding, then designing a customized plan of instruction that's tailored to your child's unique learning style. The ultimate goal? A child who learns to love math!
Age: elementary - high school
Cost: contact for pricing
Math Plus Academy
Hannah Scott: Math Plus Academy offers math enrichment classes, a programming lab, chess club, math team, and engineering & robotics. Their philosophy is that the important life skills of logic, reasoning, and problem-solving are best developed through math (resulting in a healthy dose of confidence)! Classes are 60 minutes once a week.
Age: K-8th grade
Cost: from $107/month
Stem-U
Hannah Scott: Stem-U offers after-school enrichment classes in Math and Programming, as well as workshops on specific STEM topics (taught at local schools). Classes are designed to help bridge the gap between school curriculum and important knowledge and skills needed for the workplace, including new technology.
Age: grades 1-10
Cost: pricing varies by class
A Grade Ahead
Hannah Scott: A Grade Ahead offers after-school enrichment classes in a variety of subjects (including math, the "M" in STEM) from grades Pre-K through 10+. They specialize in teaching problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, applying what they're learning to real life situations.
Age: all grade levels
Cost: contact for pricing
SIMPLR STEAM Playground
Hannah Scott: The SIMPLR STEAM Playground is a makerspace specifically for kids to experiment with 3-D printers, robotics, electronics, and structured projects each month. Homework help is also available during certain hours. Membership includes a set number of hours to use in the Playground each month, with the option to purchase additional hours if you'd like.
Age: grades K-8
Cost: membership from $30 per month
CoolTechGirls: Girls in Computer
Hannah Scott: CoolTechGirls was created as a way to encourage young women to explore their interests in STEM -- a male-dominated industry -- and learn from successful women in those fields along the way. Classes, workshops, and events are offered throughout the year, so check out their website and sign up to be notified of upcoming programs.
Age: grades 4+
Cost: varies by event
Sylvan Learning
Hannah Scott: Sylvan Learning is widely known for their tutoring and test prep services, but they also offer a monthly membership for STEM classes! Robotics, Coding, and Engineering are taught in a fun and interactive environment, using a "buddy system" to emphasize teamwork for each project. Classes are one hour, twice per week.
Age: grades 1-8
Cost: $150 per month
Engineering for Kids of Central Ohio
Hannah Scott: Engineering for Kids offers a variety of STEM programs for different age ranges, offered at a wide range of times to accommodate most schedules. Themes include robotics, aerospace engineering, coding, and more. The curriculum is specially tailored to the interests and abilities of each age level: Junior Engineers (PreK-2nd Grade), Apprentice Engineers (3rd-5th Grade), and Master Engineers (6th-8th Grade).
Age: 4-14
Cost: varies by class
The Works
Hannah Scott: The Works is a hands-on, interactive museum dedicated to history, art, science, and glassblowing. They offer STEM-specific programming periodically through the year with topics like robotics, astronomy, and even a girls-only night. Some programs are drop-in and others require pre-registration, so be sure to check the website regularly for updates on new classes, workshops, and camps.
Age: 2+
Cost: varies by program (member discounts)
Primary photo: Phi Hùng Nguyễn on Unsplash
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