Technological and scientific advancements continue changing the world we live in making STEM education more important than ever. STEM education does more than just teach science, technology, engineering, and mathematics concepts — it also provides an opportunity for kids to explore through hands-on learning and real-world applications. These skills promote innovation and help prepare children for the workforce of the future. Parents can build or strengthen the foundation of STEM skills by proving tools such as the Electric Motors Catalyst from Tinkering Labs.
The Tinkering Labs Electric Motors Catalyst makes it simple to encourage open-ended learning right from home. It is also perfect for teaching STEM in the classroom. With over 50 parts, kids can use creativity to design and build their own inventions. The kit comes with 10 challenge cards with prompts such as:
- Build a machine that draws a curvy line
- Build something that can launch a wheel across the room
- Build a creature with spinning arms
While the kit includes building tips and techniques, it does not have step-by-step instructions. This encourages children to use their imagination and problem-solving skills to satisfy the challenge requirements. As they build, they apply various scientific and mathematical techniques to develop their inventions. The challenges start out easy allowing kids to work up to the more difficult ones. At first, some even seem unfathomable, but as they complete each one, they begin to realize that the more complex builds are possible.
My 12 year old completed the majority of the challenges with very little assistance from me. It took him roughly 30 minutes to an hour for each one. The first challenge is pretty much an introduction to technology. It lets kids test out the various components and inspires them to create more powerful innovations. After completing the first challenge, my son was determined to conquer the second one right away.
Though he did get a little frustrated a few times, he had fun while engaging in open-ended learning.
The Electric Motors Catalyst kit includes:
- 2 Electric Motors with Detachable Wires
- Battery Pack with Switch
- 2 AA Batteries
- Wooden Chassis
- 12 Wooden Wheels in 6 Sizes
- 6 Wooden Connectors in 3 Shapes
- 2 Metal Springs
- 12 Bushings for Motor and Axle Connections
- 12 Rubber Bands
- 2 Metal Axles
- 4 Metal L-Brackets
- 10 Small Bolts with Wing Nuts
- 2 Metal Springs
- 12 Bushings for Motor and Axle Connections
- 10 Small Bolts with Wing Nuts
- 12 Rubber Bands
- Safety Glasses, Child Size
- 3 Washable Markers
- Full-Size Phillips Head Screwdriver
- Cloth Storage Bag
- Large 3-Foot Wide Paper Work Surface
- Clear-Top Metal Hardware Tin
- Clear Challenge Card Holder
- Safety Tips Card
- 22-Page Building Techniques Booklet
- Printed Tips & Guides
- 10 Challenge Cards
The Institute for Applied Tinkering fosters innovation by providing hands-on educational experiences through various programs and camps. Tinkering Labs was created to ensure that kids unable to attend the school have the same opportunity for open-ended, inventive learning. Be sure to check out the website to learn more about Tinkering Labs or to purchase a kit for your child. You can also connect with them via Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.