Interest in Engineering – For Kids!

If you were to ask children what an engineer does, you would probably receive a variety of creative answers. Odds are those children who you asked the question to haven’t engaged in activities that help develop an engineer’s skills.

Engineers generally use a mixture of mathematics, science, economic, social and practical knowledge in order to invent, design, build, maintain and improve structures, machines, tools, systems and materials. Unfortunately, this profession has seen a shortage in young talent. According to EuroEngineerJobs.com, there is a growing demand and currently a low output (only 12-17% of university and college graduates in Europe and the US majored in engineering) of people who want to be engineers.  This trend can be changed, starting with early childhood education. “Any project which enthuses young people for engineering is worth doing. Engineering is the link between science and the economy and we need our best young people to consider this as a career.” – Professor Anne Glover, Chief Scientific Advisor to the President of the European Commission In traditional school, young learners rarely see an opportunity to apply science and math in a fun, collaborative environment. Since engineering activities are based on real-world technologies and problems, they help children see how subjects like math and science are relevant to world around us. 50% of FasTracKids’ curriculum is science themed, providing students the experience of hands-on, project-based learning. Programs sync math and science subjects with 21^st century skills like thinking creativity, collaborating effectively, group communication, critically thinking and growing confidence. February 21-27 is known as Engineering Week, started in 1951 by the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE). This worldwide event generates interest and celebrates the profession. To reverse the shortage of women in the field (only 1 in 6 engineers is female), Girl Day (February 26^th) was established to show girls how creative engineering is and how engineers are changing our world. FasTracKids is excited to announce that participating centers will host special events during Engineering Week! All families are welcome, regardless if your child is enrolled or not. Children ages 5-8 years and parents can enjoy fun engineering-based activities, like building an edible car. Please contact your local center for more information. Find a Location

For older kids, here is a creative activity link that shows you make your own battery at home!  Adult supervision is required.

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