Name: Kids in Motion: Loreto Playground
Start: 2026-09-16T10:00:00-04:00
End: 2026-09-16T11:00:00-04:00
Location: Loreto Playground

scienceFrom $45

Engineering with Snapology | Homeschool Edition

Tue, Sep 15 · 12:30 PM

S.T.E.A.M Lab · Van Nest

Does your little learner love to tinker and create new things, or are they the kind of learner who likes to break things apart to see what’s inside? If so, they’re going to love Snapology’s Foundational Engineering: Machines and Contraptions program! This program gives your student the tools they need to understand mechanical movement and the importance of simple machines. They will see these moving parts up-close as they follow instructions to build various machines and contraptions, then use the models to develop new design ideas, test out physics concepts, and even play games with their partners and classmates. Whether they are the creative-constructive type or prefer the inquisitive-deconstructive way of learning, this program is sure to spark their engineering interests! CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE EXPERIENCE TRAILER WHAT STUDENTS WILL LEARN • Simple Machines, Complex Machines, and Physics By following our building instructions and examining the models that are made, your child will learn how to design simple and complex machines and use things like gears, pulleys, wheels & axles, lever, and cranks to build their own models. They will learn how different configurations of these parts can create unique movement guided by laws of physics and will be encouraged to experiment with their builds to create new design possibilities. • Building Strong Structures and Problem Solving Building a sturdy, reliable structure is a fundamental aspect of engineering. In this program, students will explore different methods for creating a model that is both strong and functional. As they face building challenges when testing their designs, they will be positively encouraged to think critically and use teamwork to solve engineering problems. • Teamwork/Partner Skills Small groups and peer partners are key components of Snapology’s classroom approach. We emphasize positive teamwork skills in our programs and constantly work to develop healthy, respectful collaborations between students. Through group planning, sharing of materials, and fun partner experiences, students become more cognizant of how to interact with their peers in a respectful and productive way.

Ages 5–12

scienceFrom $1

Engineering with Snapology |Semester One

Tue, Sep 15 · 3:00 PM

S.T.E.A.M Lab · Van Nest

Does your little learner love to tinker and create new things, or are they the kind of learner who likes to break things apart to see what’s inside? If so, they’re going to love Snapology’s Foundational Engineering: Machines and Contraptions program! This program gives your student the tools they need to understand mechanical movement and the importance of simple machines. They will see these moving parts up-close as they follow instructions to build various machines and contraptions, then use the models to develop new design ideas, test out physics concepts, and even play games with their partners and classmates. Whether they are the creative-constructive type or prefer the inquisitive-deconstructive way of learning, this program is sure to spark their engineering interests! CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE EXPERIENCE TRAILER WHAT STUDENTS WILL LEARN • Simple Machines, Complex Machines, and Physics By following our building instructions and examining the models that are made, your child will learn how to design simple and complex machines and use things like gears, pulleys, wheels & axles, lever, and cranks to build their own models. They will learn how different configurations of these parts can create unique movement guided by laws of physics and will be encouraged to experiment with their builds to create new design possibilities. • Building Strong Structures and Problem Solving Building a sturdy, reliable structure is a fundamental aspect of engineering. In this program, students will explore different methods for creating a model that is both strong and functional. As they face building challenges when testing their designs, they will be positively encouraged to think critically and use teamwork to solve engineering problems. • Teamwork/Partner Skills Small groups and peer partners are key components of Snapology’s classroom approach. We emphasize positive teamwork skills in our programs and constantly work to develop healthy, respectful collaborations between students. Through group planning, sharing of materials, and fun partner experiences, students become more cognizant of how to interact with their peers in a respectful and productive way. CLASS SCHEDULE 2:30-3:30pm: Local Park Visit, Snack, Homework Help, Guided Free Choice 3:30-4:00pm: Warm Up Engineering Activity 4:00-5:30pm: Feature Activity 5:30-5:45 pm: Free Choice & Parent Pickup ADDITIONAL DETAILS CLICK HERE for our FAQ and General Policies Guide Complimentary Bus Stop Pickup Available Ages: 5+ | Classes are held on all Tuesdays except for those days when school is closed. All Afterschool Students receive 20% off on No-School Camp Days at The Afterschool Collective. Full Semester price is discounted to $90 per session rather than the $105 per session drop in investment

Ages 5–12Course

From $1

Engineering Explorers: Build It, Test It, Take It Home! Semester 1

Tue, Sep 15 · 3:00 PM

S.T.E.A.M Lab · Van Nest

Get ready to invent, create, and explore like a real engineer! In this hands-on series, kids dive into the exciting world of design and discovery — building awesome projects they can actually take home . From crafting a solar-powered car that zooms with sunlight, to designing a custom music box, to wiring up a glowing desk lamp, every week brings a brand-new creation and challenge. Along the way, students learn how science, technology, and imagination work together to make amazing things happen. They’ll test, tweak, and troubleshoot their designs — just like real inventors do! Perfect for curious minds who love to build, tinker, and take their creativity to the next level. Weeks 1–2: Welcome to Engineering! | Foundations & Design ThinkingFocus Area: The Engineering Design Process (EDP): Ask → Imagine → Plan → Create → Test → Improve Standards Alignment: NGSS 3-5-ETS1-1 (Define engineering problems) NGSS 3-5-ETS1-2 (Generate & compare solutions) CCSS.Math.Practice.MP1 (Make sense of problems & persevere) Class Goals: Understand what engineers do Practice brainstorming, sketching, and prototyping Build 2 mini-projects to practice designing and redesigning Sample Projects: Balloon-powered car Spinning paper helicopter Weeks 3–4: Simple Machines Magic | Gears, Levers & PulleysFocus Area: Mechanical Engineering Basics: force, load, work, mechanical advantage Standards Alignment: NGSS 3-PS2-1 (Forces & motion) NGSS 4-PS3-4 (Energy & motion relationship) Class Goals: Identify six simple machines Combine simple machines to solve a challenge Build a take-home contraption using at least 2 simple machines Sample Projects: Gear-powered spin toy Pulley-powered lift bucket Weeks 5–6: Wind & Motion Engineering | Energy You Can FeelFocus Area: Kinetic energy, aerodynamics, force direction, drag and lift Standards Alignment: NGSS 4-PS3-1 (Energy transfer) NGSS MS-PS2-2 (Motion & forces — adapted for age) Class Goals: Experiment with wind as a power source Build and test motion-based machines Learn how design changes affect speed Sample Projects: Wind-powered racer Pinwheel generator model Weeks 7–8: Light & Circuits | Electrical Engineering for KidsFocus Area: Electricity basics: open/closed circuits, switches, LEDs, conductivity Standards Alignment: NGSS 4-PS3-2 (Energy transfer through electric circuits) ISTE 4.d (Problem solving with technology) Class Goals: Build working circuits Understand energy flow and safety rules Create a take-home light-up device Sample Projects: LED night-light Light-up greeting card Weeks 9–10: Sound Science | Vibrations, Waves & Mini Music MakersFocus Area: Acoustical engineering: sound waves, pitch, vibration, resonance Standards Alignment: NGSS 4-PS4-1 (Wave patterns in sound) CCSS.Math.Practice.MP5 (Use tools strategically) Class Goals: Explore how sound is created and travels Experiment with vibration and frequency Build a take-home sound machine or instrument Sample Projects: Rubber band guitar Crank-powered music box (mechanical version) Weeks 11–12: Solar Power! | Renewable Energy & Sun-Driven DesignFocus Area: Solar energy, energy transformation, sustainable engineering Standards Alignment: NGSS 5-PS3-1 (Sun as energy source) NGSS 3-5-ETS1-3 (Test and refine solutions) Class Goals: Learn how solar panels work Build models that convert sunlight into motion Compare solar output in different conditions Sample Projects: Solar-powered car (take-home!) Mini solar spinner CLASS SCHEDULE 2:30-3:30pm: Local Park Visit, Snack, Homework Help, Guided Free Choice 3:30-4:00pm: Warm Up Engineering Activity 4:00-5:30pm: Feature Activity 5:30-5:45 pm: Free Choice & Parent Pickup ADDITIONAL DETAILS CLICK HERE for our FAQ and General Policies Guide Complimentary Bus Stop Pickup Available Classes are held on all Tuesdays except for those days when school is closed. All Afterschool Students receive 10% off on No-School Camp Days at The Afterschool Collective. Full Semester price is discounted to $90 per session rather than the $105 per session drop in investment

Ages 5–12Course

From $1

Introduction to Engineering Design with 3D Printing

Tue, Sep 15 · 3:00 PM

S.T.E.A.M Lab · Van Nest

In this afterschool program, students become creators by designing and 3D-printing something they’re truly passionate about. Using Tinkercad , they’ll explore the fundamentals of 3D modeling, learn how to work within design parameters, and apply creative problem-solving to bring their ideas to life. Along the way, they’ll use math skills like measurement and scaling, experiment with iterative design, and discover how constraints inspire innovation. Whether it’s a personalized keychain, a custom toy, or an original invention, this course empowers students to transform their imagination into tangible, real-world objects—all while building confidence, technical skills, and a maker mindset. WHAT THE STUDENTS WILL LEARN Foundations of 3D Design Students are introduced to the principles of 3D modeling and the role of additive manufacturing in today’s world. They begin exploring Tinkercad as a design platform. Understanding Form and Structure Learners develop spatial reasoning as they work with shapes and dimensions to create simple, functional objects, building confidence in precision and design accuracy. Concept Development & Creative Thinking Students identify a personal passion or problem to solve and translate their ideas into initial sketches, applying early stages of the design-thinking process. Personalization and Aesthetic Design Learners enhance their projects by integrating detail, symmetry, and customization—skills that combine artistic creativity with technical problem-solving. Iteration and Design Refinement Through structured peer feedback and instructor guidance, students revise their work, reinforcing the importance of adaptability and iterative thinking in engineering and design. Preparing for Fabrication Students learn to evaluate their designs against practical constraints such as size, stability, and functionality, ensuring print readiness. Finalizing Complex Designs This phase emphasizes precision and optimization, allowing learners to complete their primary projects with a focus on durability and usability. Introduction to Fabrication & Testing The 3D printing process begins, giving students firsthand experience in transitioning from digital design to physical object while solving real-world challenges during production. Presentation & Communication Skills Students prepare a concise presentation explaining the purpose, design process, and problem-solving strategies behind their projects, developing public speaking and STEM communication skills. Capstone Showcase & Reflection The program concludes with a formal showcase where learners share their completed projects, reflect on their growth, and celebrate mastery of both creative and technical competencies. Program Outcomes By the end of this course, students will: ✔ Gain foundational knowledge of 3D modeling and additive manufacturing ✔ Strengthen mathematical and spatial reasoning skills through real-world application ✔ Practice critical thinking and problem-solving using the design-thinking process ✔ Develop creativity, persistence, and adaptability through iterative design ✔ Build confidence in STEM communication by presenting their projects to an audience Why 3D Design Matters 3D design is more than a creative outlet—it’s a cornerstone of innovation in industries such as engineering, architecture, product development, medical technology, and aerospace. By engaging in hands-on 3D modeling and printing, students develop critical 21st-century skills: Problem-Solving & Innovation: Learners tackle real-world challenges, designing solutions from concept to physical product. Mathematical & Spatial Reasoning: Precision in measurement and geometry is embedded throughout the design process. Technological Fluency: Students gain practical experience with digital tools widely used in professional fields. Design Thinking & Adaptability: Iterative prototyping teaches flexibility, resilience, and the ability to improve ideas. STEM Communication: Presenting and explaining design choices strengthens clarity and confidence—essential skills for academic and professional success. By investing in this program, families are providing students with an early foundation in engineering design principles, creative problem-solving, and technological literacy—skills that will position them for future academic and career opportunities in an increasingly digital world. CLASS SCHEDULE 2:30-3:30pm: Local Park Visit, Snack, Homework Help, Guided Free Choice 3:30-4:00pm: Warm Up Robotic Activity 4:00-5:30pm: Feature Activity 5:30-5:45 pm: Free Choice & Parent Pickup ADDITIONAL DETAILS CLICK HERE for our FAQ and General Policies Guide Complimentary Bus Stop Pickup Available Classes are held on all Tuesdays except for those days when school is closed. All Afterschool Students receive 10% off on No-School Camp Days at The Afterschool Collective. Full Semester price is discounted to $90 per session rather than the $105 per session drop in investment

Ages 8–12Course

Kids in Motion: Loreto Playground

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