STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) skills are essential for preparing the next generation to innovate, create, and solve complex challenges. At Flying Minds Education Centre, we believe that building a strong foundation in STEM for children in Calgary can help shape their futures. Our Young Engineers programs, developed by experts in education and engineering, use hands-on, project-based learning with LEGO® like models to bring STEM concepts to life. Our mission is to inspire kids to discover their inner engineer while they engage with critical STEM topics in an accessible, engaging, and fun manner.
Why Hands-On STEM Learning Matters
Unlike traditional classroom settings, the Young Engineers program's approach focuses on active participation and exploration. Instead of memorizing theoretical concepts, students physically build models to understand how engineering principles are applied in the real world. From building basic machines to programming robotic creations, they get exposure to applied science and engineering. Research has shown that this hands-on learning method boosts both understanding and retention while making learning much more enjoyable and fulfilling. When students build and experiment with gears, levers, or robotic parts, they see STEM principles in action, making these concepts easier to understand and relate to real-life situations.
By engaging in project-based learning, students gain a genuine curiosity about the mechanics of the world around them. They also develop valuable life skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity—tools they will carry with them throughout their academic and professional journeys.
Courses Offered at Flying Minds Education Centre
1. Bricks Challenge Program
The Bricks Challenge Program is a cornerstone course, introducing elementary-age students to essential engineering concepts. Tailored to younger students, this program provides an accessible introduction to mechanical principles using colorful LEGO®-like models to make the lessons fun and approachable. Children learn about gears, pulleys, levers, and wheels by building simple machines that demonstrate how these components work together in a functioning system. They see firsthand how mechanical systems operate and understand physics principles like motion and force, all through hands-on projects.
Beyond the core concepts, the Bricks Challenge Program emphasizes collaboration and creative thinking. Each project encourages students to work together to solve design problems, offering a supportive environment for developing confidence and social skills. By learning how to think and act like engineers, students become more comfortable exploring complex topics and have the chance to develop both technical skills and creativity.
2. Galileo Technic Program
For older students ready for more advanced challenges, the Galileo Technic Program offers a deep dive into complex engineering and physics concepts. This program provides a more rigorous curriculum, covering topics like centrifugal force, angular momentum, and torque. Students learn how these principles apply to the design and functioning of real machines, creating models that showcase these concepts in action. They explore a variety of mechanisms, from rotational systems to balancing systems, that provide a window into the inner workings of larger, real-world machines.
The Galileo Technic Program also challenges students to engage with the scientific method, honing their problem-solving skills as they work to experiment and optimize their designs. For example, students might be tasked with adjusting a model to achieve a certain balance or speed, requiring them to think analytically and test different approaches. This combination of theory and experimentation helps students deepen their understanding of engineering principles while fostering a mindset geared toward innovation.
How Young Engineers Inspires Curiosity and Confidence
Young Engineers programs are about more than just understanding science; they’re about instilling a passion for discovery and confidence in each child’s ability to tackle complex challenges. By integrating core principles of STEM with creativity and play, these programs help kids view STEM subjects as something fun and accessible rather than daunting or difficult. Each lesson is carefully designed to make abstract concepts concrete, transforming the classroom into a space where students feel empowered to ask questions, experiment, and ultimately, succeed.
The Lasting Impact of Young Engineers Programs
The benefits of programs like Bricks Challenge and Galileo Technic extend far beyond the classroom. Students develop critical thinking and analytical skills that are transferable to any field of study. They learn how to approach problems methodically, break down complex tasks, and test solutions. By gaining these essential skills, students are not only prepared for future STEM studies but are also better equipped to tackle life’s challenges with resilience and creativity.
Programs like those offered at Flying Minds Education Centre aim to shape students into curious, innovative thinkers who are unafraid of tackling new challenges. Whether a child decides to pursue a career in STEM or simply gains a greater appreciation for the way things work, these programs lay a foundation for lifelong learning and curiosity.
Join Us at Flying Minds Education Centre
At Flying Minds, we’re committed to nurturing the engineers, scientists, and inventors of tomorrow. Our Young Engineers programs provide Calgary children and children from surrounding areas with the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning, inspiring them to think critically and creatively. We invite parents and students to explore the exciting world of STEM through our interactive, project-based courses. By fostering a supportive learning environment, we hope to empower each child to unlock their potential and find joy in learning.
Whether your child is just beginning their STEM journey or ready for more advanced challenges, Flying Minds Education Centre offers programs to meet their needs. Join us to experience how fun and transformative STEM learning can be, and watch your child’s curiosity, confidence, and skills grow with each class!
We also offer field trips to educational organizations, welcoming school children to our center for hands-on experiences. Additionally, we can deliver programs directly to schools, bringing engaging STEM learning right to their classrooms. For more details, contact us to learn how we’re helping children across Calgary grow as learners and future innovators.
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