Makerspace for kids is growing in leaps and bounds. This is an evolving trend found in schools around the globe. However, a lot of parents are curious to know more about makerspace. If you are puzzled about this concept, sit back and read on. Here is a quick overview on makerspace and its qualities.
As suggested by its name, makerspace is all about creating, achieving and crafting. These are primary activities that happen in the makerspace. In a kids makerspace, the little ones are limited only by their creativity and imagination. It blends engineering, STE(A)M, math and technology. Most of the time, kids are introduced to questions like “what if” and “how”.
How do children respond?
It is very interesting to see kids at a Makerspace. Some believe that children and makerspaces go hand-in-hand. After all, the little ones are powerful tinkerers. They are keen in exploring and seeing how things work. The challenge in putting things together, breaking and re-assembling keeps children active. That is why makerspaces provide a wide range of materials that are not seen or experienced by children.
Children are given absolute freedom in makerspaces. They can build projects and put forward their interests. It offers guidelines that can make children successful in their projects (but through their own learnings).
Two Common Makerspace Programs
#1 Coding
A common makerspace program would be “coding”.
Coding programs help children understand more about computer programming. Most of the time, the program teaches java, HTML, python or C++ coding. This is a computer specific activity that has received ample attention from kids, teachers and parents.
#2 Entrepreneurial Skills
The talk about any makerspace will be incomplete without entrepreneurial activities. These activities will change the way your child thinks. The program introduces leadership and entrepreneurship as a skill that can be learnt and developed.
What does Shine Offer?
Shine offers two great makerspace programs: STE(A)M and Biz Makers.
Biz Makers is a powerful 36-week program on entrepreneurship. It is carefully designed for children. It will help your little ones think differently, come up with innovative ideas, and also build their own business. On the other hand, STE(A)M is an enrichment course. It is scheduled for nine months. STE(A)M comprises of activities that can boost your child’s creativity. Its primary focus is on science and technology. Additionally, there are plenty of design and art projects in Shine’s STE(A)M program.