Issue link: https://fredparent.uberflip.com/i/1086923
www.FredericksburgParent.NET 7 Pouches' community corner "I believe that all children are natural engineers. They are curious, creative and kinetic. Engineering For Kids wants to help nurture and develop those minds, to help children better understand the world they live in, so that they can one day make it better." – Dori Roberts In 2009 while teaching engineering courses at Colonial Forge High School in Stafford, Virginia, Dori Roberts realized a growing need for more S.T.E.M.-focused enrichment for her students. "I knew the world economy would increasingly require the skills and expertise of S.T.E.M. jobs. To help fill this skills gap, I was the advisor for a Technology Student Association chapter at Colonial Forge High School." S.T.E.M., an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, allows students access to advanced science and technology with the aim of making them more competitive in those fields the future. As Roberts' Technology Student Association grew to 180 students, they saw success in multiple state champion- ships. During a trip to the national TSA conference in Orlando, Florida, Roberts brought her young children, 6 and 8 years old. "A funny thing happened on the way to Epcot…my children were becom- ing as interested in what the student engineers were doing as they were The Magic Kingdom. They were drawn more to the roller coasters being made than the ones being ridden. And then the idea came to me: Engineering For Kids." Operations for Engineering For Kids began out of a single classroom and has since grown into a successful fran- chise, reaching over 300,000 students worldwide. In Fredericksburg, Engineering for Kids provides a suite of programs and events for kids aged 4-14. "Subjects range from Electronic Game Design to Aerospace Engineering, Robotics to earth-friendly Environmental and Marine Engineering. Engineering For Kids is devot- ed to one sole purpose: to inspire the next generation of engineers." If you are interested in getting your kids involved, Engineering For Kids is offering the Fredericksburg area workshops and Spring and Summer Camps. Engineering for Kids reader feedback FredParent asked... Colleen M. Nature walks and going to playgrounds. FredParent Nicole A. We are headed to Tennessee! My boys are super excited! Melissa L. Heading to Disney World! Kate E. We are hoping to check out some of the museums in D.C., our favorite museum in Richmond and lots of outdoor play since it will be towards the end of April and warm outside! Rachel W. We are hoping to go to Orlando for our first official family vacation! Amber C. We love Winnie the Pooh, and I'd love to take my son to his first theater show! Reba C. I will be wrangling a toddler and a special needs kid who will both be annoyed they can't go to school to see their friends. Kimberly J. Heading to PA to take our kids to the Helicopter Museum. " " plans Amanda C. The zoo, VA Beach Aquarium and relaxing! Anna G. Hoping to vacation and visit family! Kristin B. Kings Dominion and relaxing. Lindsey G. Staying home and enjoying family time! Venise L. Spring break around the area and day trip to Williamsburg. Summer H. Hoping to visit grandma and grandpa in Florida! ? What are your " WRITTEN BY KATIE HAVERLUK