Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math subjects have been promoted continuously over the past few years as the key to modern careers and those of the future. You may even be tired hearing about them. However, many of today’s children will have to focus on them if they want to have the skills necessary for the modern world. While many find STEM boring or difficult to understand, there are ways to make it exciting. Robotics is one of these ways.
The next time you’re looking for extra-curricular activities for your daughter or gifts for your 11-year-old son, consider something robotics-related. Robotics develops skills across all four disciplines, builds camaraderie and can even lead to scholarships. Here’s how to get your child excited about building and programming a robot.
Encourage healthy competition
Competition makes almost anything exciting. There are lots of competitions throughout the country and many are perfect for beginners. They will allow your children to match their skills against those of other kid their age while also exposing him to experts in the field. They’ll meet other kids who share their interests. At the same time, they will see what they will be able to do if they give robotics their best shot.
Push it as an opportunity to make new friends
Many children struggle to build lasting friendships, especially in middle and high school. If your child has an interest in technology or just wants to learn new skills, robotics is an excellent choice. Joining a robotics club london or elsewherecan expose them to children they wouldn’t meet otherwise. Bonding over a common interest in childhood can lead to lifelong friendships.
Turn it into a family activity
Make family time a fun learning opportunity. Building a robot, coding and playing games is ideal for a typically lazy Saturday. Engage in a friendly rivalry between parents and children or guys and girls and see how excited your kids will become. Bond over this unique activity instead of going to the beach or park yet again.
Enrol them in a robotics camp
Some children don’t need much of a push to get involved with robotics. Others see it as time-consuming and stressful. If your kid falls into the latter category, then try to have them start coding and robotics camps in London or a one-day workshop instead of insisting they join a club while school is in session. Getting a taste of robotics may be all they need to change their mind about investing more time and energy. Maybe they have misconceptions about what robotics is. Actually getting involved and whetting their appetite can make all the difference.
Get them started with a programming app or website
If you aren’t sure your kid will enjoy robotics, you may not want to invest in a class or a toy. Instead, encourage them to learn problem-solving skills on one of the devices they already use as a computer or tablet. When they start learning about coding and getting an animation to follow their directions, they may get excited. They may realize they want a tangible object to control and tinker with. Then you can introduce them to robotics.
Robotics has a wide range of applications. It can really help children to learn while having fun. While some kids may be more eager than others, most can be encouraged to give it a try. Use these tips and you will be well on your way to getting your child involved.