Workshops for 2018-2019

Learn about scientific concepts and cutting-edge research with fun, challenging projects made from everyday stuff!

• New! Maker Programs for Teens
• Amazing Robotics Projects
• Paper Inventions -- including Paper Circuits and Programming with the Chibitronics Chibi Chip
• Musical Inventions
• Video Game Design and Coding
• Professional Development Workshops for Educators

General Program Info

• 90 minute workshops • Up to 25 kids or 20 teens

• All materials and tools provided during the workshop (except recycled paper goods and computers)

• In many programs kids keep their individual projects to continue their exploration after the workshop ends

• Electronics programs can include kits for your library to keep

Questions? Check the FAQ or contact Kathy to schedule a program today!

Robots use free online MakeCode and Adafruit Circuit Playground Express or other microcontrollers!
(Computers required)

Fabric and Fiber Inventions
Sew your own Light-Up Wearables!

E-textiles is a fun and effective way to learn about electrical circuits, switches, sensors, and more!

Make light-up pins, wristbands, or even stuff animals!

Sewable and No-Sew options available

Cardboard Engineering -- PinBox 3000 Make a customizable pinball machine!

Design, build, and test a human-powered pinball machine playboard using the PinBox 3000 -- a wonderful blend of physics, engineering, and storytelling!

Ask about adding programmable sounds, lights, and action to the PinBox 3000!

Ages 7 and up

• Paper Poppers and Straw Oboes

• Balloon Drums

• Singing Bowls

• Simple String Instruments

Explore the physics of sound using homemade musical instruments and devices!

Kids explore a variety of unusual musical gadgets such as:

• balloon and packing tape drums
• toolbox xylophones
• primitive electronic instruments such as circuit bent musical greeting cards and DIY theremins.

They'll also get to design and make a musical invention to take home.

See Musical Inventions videos here!

Ages 10 and up

• Paint Stirrer Bullroarers

• Wooden Thumb Pianos

• Cardboard Record Players

Teens (ages 12 and up)

• Learn About Circuits with DIY Audio Speakers and Mics

• Build and Program an Electronic Music Board with Makey Makey and Scratch (computers required)

Make Weavings on Your Own Cardboard Loom

Stuffed Sock Creatures
(Learn-to-Sew or No-Sew)

Sew Light-Up Wearables using DIY Sensors and Components

Use the Sun to Make
Shadow Print Wall Hangings

Geodesic Dome Clubhouse
Paper engineering using recycled newspaper

Light-Up Paper Circuits
Make creations featuring DIY electrical circuits, switches, and sensors

Paper isn't just for writing!

Learn how paper is used for everything from household decorations to building material to self-folding origami robots!

Fun, easy-to-do projects will encourage kids to continue exploring and creating on their own.

Programs for ages 10 and up

Paper Math Projects
Origami Robots, Mysterious Mobius Strips, Foldable Fractals, and Fun Hexaflexagons

Paper Art
Create rolled quilling designs and recycled magazine bracelets

Choose a project from Robotics or Making Simple Robots like these...

Motorized ArtBots
Create drawings with a "smart body" robot

Gravity-Powered Robot Walkers
Born in the lab, inspired by nature

Robot Hands
Bendable cardboard models that work just like real 3D printed prosthetics for kids

Solar WobbleBots -- For Teens!
Reuse old electronics to make a solar-powered robot with a programmable body

Programs for older kids and teens based on Video Games: Design and Code Your Own Adventure

Invent a Game for Good

How do games keep players interested and excited? Use real game development techniques to help players help themselves and their world.

Build Assistive
Game Controllers
Design and prototype game controllers for players who are differently-abled using Makey Makey and program them with free Scratch programming!
(2-4 computers are required.)

• Learn easy low tech/no tech projects you can do right now
• Get advice about which tools and kits are worth the investment
• Workshops and consulting available

Whether you're planning a dedicated Makerspace or a portable Maker program,
you can introduce kids of any age and interest to
science and engineering concepts.

Thinking of hosting a Mini Maker Faire? I can share my experience as organizer and exhibitor!

**Kathy's Recommended Makerspace Resources**