👶 Ages 8–12Course📍 LIC

Video Game Design

Name: Video Game Design
Start: 2026-05-18T15:00:00-04:00
End: 2026-05-18T16:00:00-04:00
Location: S.T.E.A.M Lab

📆Mon, May 18 · 3:00 PM

📍S.T.E.A.M Lab · 11-45 47th Ave, Queens, NY

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About this event

Level up your imagination! In this exciting series, you’ll become a real video game designer! Using Stencyl game creation software, you’ll dream up your own characters, worlds, and challenges — then bring them to life on screen. Best part? You’ll get to take your finished game home on a flash drive to share and play with friends and family. Get ready to code, create, and play your way to fun! What Your Child Will Learn Computer Skills Video Game Design gives students access to Stencyl game creation software to build their very own game. Students will follow along with the instructor to learn how to navigate this semi-complex software. After following along, children will repeat the learned procedures to create their very own, original game levels. Story/Character Development The basis for any great game are the characters and action. Through Snapology’s instruction ongame planning, students will learn to develop their own original story lev els including actors, enemies, power-ups, puzzle levels, and game transitions. Understanding these concepts will not only create a great game, but will also translate into better developed written/oral stories at home and in the classroom. Critical Thinking Skills In order to create a functional game, students will have to logically think through the physics of their game. Steps such as turning on gravity in their game world and sequencing levels are critical to the success of the game. Students will logically think through these aspects of game development, as well as use critical thinking to troubleshoot any issues that may arise while testing their game. Teamwork/Partner Skills As in real life game development, there are many decisions that require compromise and teamwork throughout Video Game Design. We emphasize in our classes that the students use good teamwork skills. They are required to do group planning and respect the opinions and ideas of their partners. Class by Snapology CLASS SCHEDULE ● 2:30-3:30 pm: Local Park Visit, Snack, Homework Help, Guided Free Choice ● 3:30-5:15pm Feature Activity ● 5:15-5:45 pm: Free Choice & Parent Pickup ADDITIONAL DETAILS CLICK HERE for our FAQ and General Policies Guide Complimentary Bus Stop Pickup Available Ages: 8+ | Classes are held on all Mondays 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

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Drone Dynamics: Fly, Code, and Command the Skies!

Wed, May 13 · 3:00 PM

S.T.E.A.M Lab · LIC

Get ready to take flight! In Drone Dynamics, students become drone pilots and aerial engineers, learning how to fly, code, and navigate drones through creative missions and challenges. Each week builds new skills — from flight safety and controls to aerial mapping and mission planning — all while exploring the science behind how things fly. Students will design obstacle courses, perform rescue missions, and even map out “pollinator paths” using drones! By the end of the program, they’ll showcase their piloting skills and creative problem-solving in the Drone Flight Expo — a thrilling final competition and celebration of innovation. With a strong focus on safety, teamwork, and creativity, this program takes engineering and problem-solving to new heights Focus Areas: Engineering, Physics of Flight, Coding, Technology, and Teamwork Standards Alignment: NGSS-PS2.A & PS2.B: Forces and Motion — Investigate how lift, thrust, and drag work. NGSS-ETS1: Engineering Design — Define and test solutions through drone missions. CCSS.MATH.PRACTICE: Apply measurement, geometry, and spatial reasoning. SEL Standards: Collaboration, focus, and decision-making. Weeks 1–2: Welcome to Flight School Theme: The Science of Flight Activities: Learn drone safety rules and parts of a UAV. Discover lift, thrust, drag, and gravity with paper plane challenges. Practice takeoff and landing with basic drone controls Goal: Understand flight fundamentals and safety protocols. Weeks 3–4: Becoming a Pilot-in-Training Theme: Hands-On Flight Basics Activities: Learn to hover, rotate, and maneuver drones safely. Create a “landing pad” challenge for accuracy practice. Introduce teamwork with pilot/navigator partner roles. Goal: Build fine motor control and spatial awareness. Weeks 5–6: Mission: Precision Pilot Theme: Accuracy and Control Activities: Fly through rings and tunnels in obstacle courses. Complete timed landing and retrieval challenges. Learn about sensors and how drones maintain balance. Goal: Develop flight precision and control under constraints. Weeks 7–8: Coding Takes Flight Theme: Coding & Automation Activities: Use block-based programming to pre-plan flight paths. Program drones to perform “autopilot missions.” Explore how math and sequencing apply to real flight patterns. Goal: Combine computer science with engineering through drone coding. Weeks 9–10: Midterm Mission — The Sky Challenge Theme: Midterm Team Showcase Activities: Teams plan and execute a series of challenges (takeoff, fly-through, hover, land). Record scores for precision, teamwork, and creativity. Reflect on learning in pilot journals. Goal: Demonstrate mastery of basic flight skills and collaboration. Weeks 11–13: Aerial Engineering Adventures Theme: Drones as Tools for Innovation Activities: Design “rescue drop” systems using parachutes Simulate search-and-rescue missions using objects or targets. Learn how drones are used in delivery, construction, and safety. Goal: Understand real-world engineering applications of drone tech. Weeks 14–16: Drones & Data — The Mapping Mission Theme: Aerial Mapping & Environmental Science Activities: Learn how drones capture images and data. Map out a schoolyard or indoor grid using flight coordinates. Conduct a “Pollinator Mapping” or “Environmental Survey” mission. Goal: Apply drone flight to science and geography concepts. Weeks 17–19: Build Your Own Mission Theme: Creative Flight Design Activities: Students design a new mission or challenge for their peers. Incorporate props, landing zones, or coded tasks. Practice leadership and presentation skills as “Mission Commanders.” Goal: Apply critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. Week 20: The Drone Flight Expo! Theme: Showcase & Celebration Activities: Students demonstrate their missions and flight skills for families and peers. Celebrate with pilot certificates and photos. Reflect on what they learned about engineering, coding, and teamwork. Goal: Celebrate innovation and build presentation confidence. CLASS SCHEDULE 2:30-3:30pm: Local Park Visit, Snack, Homework Help, and Guided Free Choice 3:30-4:00pm: Warm Up 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 Wednesdays 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

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Real World Robotics | Robots That Make a Difference

Wed, May 13 · 3:00 PM

S.T.E.A.M Lab · LIC

Snapology’s Real World Robotics focuses on the real-life applications of robotics. In this program, your engineer will explore the basics of robotics while building some amazing & helpful devices with their classmates! They will explore how robots help humans live in the modern world and explore other worlds! While working with a partner to complete various challenges, your student will be taught how to effectively utilize sensors, how different mechanical components work in their robots, and how programming is a challenging but rewarding skill that they can master with just a little practice. We will support them in the development of their coding and building skills and inspire them with creative building challenges. Shown here is one of our project based lessons: Design for Someone in Need. This specific build is a prosthetic arm. This project is designed so that every student or team can have a unique solution. CLICK HERE to learn more about LEGO Spike Prime WHAT STUDENTS WILL LEARN Programming Skills With each new model, students will be given a program to operate their robotic build. They will learn how to read the program code and then fix an error to make the code useable. By fixing errors in a broken program code, students will learn how to debug and modify their programs quickly. Whether making their build respond to various sensors, adding loops and fun sounds, or modifying variables, children will learn valuable programming skills through the Scratch-based coding platform. Mechanical Elements In each activity, students will be asked to identify the key mechanical components used in each robotic model. They will complete this before they ever build the model so they better understand how the pieces work together in the final design. They will understand the importance and use of motors, sensors, gears, axles, their robot Hub and so much more. Following Instructions An important component of this program is following verbal and written instructions. Throughout each lesson, your student will be required to listen, pick up on routines and follow instructions in order to complete the model and interact with their builds. The best part, practicing this skill comes easy in this program because your student is having fun and supported each step of the way. Communication and Collaboration Skills Small groups and peer partners are key components of Snapology's educational approach. We emphasize positive teamwork skills and constantly work to develop healthy, respectful collaborations between students. Through team projects and fun partner experiences, your student will 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, and Guided Free Choice 3:30-4:00pm: Warm Up 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 Wednesdays 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

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LEGO Mindstorm with Snapology | Semester Two

Wed, May 13 · 3:00 PM

S.T.E.A.M Lab · LIC

LEGO Mindstorms is a hyper advanced robotics kit that lets you build and program your own robots using LEGO pieces, motors, sensors, and a smart brick. You can create cool, moving robots and control them with code—whether you're using easy block-based programming or more advanced languages like Python. It’s a fun way to dive into the world of robotics, engineering, and coding while developing problem-solving skills and creativity. Perfect for sparking your curiosity and turning ideas into real, working inventions! CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE EXPERIENCE TRAILER WHAT THE STUDENTS WILL LEARN 1. Introduction to LEGO Mindstorms Robotics Overview of LEGO Mindstorms Kits : Learn about the components of a LEGO Mindstorms kit, including motors, sensors, bricks (programmable hub), and connectors. Basic Building Techniques : Introduction to the basics of constructing robots with LEGO bricks, including how to build simple models and structures. 2. Basic Programming Concepts Introduction to Programming : Learn the basics of programming logic, using visual programming languages (such as LEGO’s EV3 software or other block-based coding platforms). Sequences and Commands : Understand how to create sequences of commands for controlling motors, sensors, and other components. Variables and Loops : Use loops and variables to create more efficient and repeatable code, allowing the robot to perform tasks multiple times or adapt to different conditions. 3. Robotics Components and Their Functions Motors and Sensors : Learn how motors control movement and how sensors (e.g., touch, color, ultrasonic) help robots interact with the environment. Exploring Different Sensors : Understand how sensors detect obstacles, colors, or changes in the environment, and how to use them to make decisions. Sensor Integration : Program the robot to respond to sensor inputs (e.g., avoid obstacles, follow lines, or follow a path based on color). 4. Design and Problem-Solving Building for Purpose : Teach students how to design robots with a specific function or task in mind, focusing on efficient and purposeful construction. Creative Problem-Solving : Challenge students to solve real-world problems through robotics, such as building a robot that can complete an obstacle course or transport objects. Prototyping and Iteration : Encourage students to prototype their designs, test them, and iterate based on performance and results. 5. Advanced Programming Concepts Conditionals and Logic : Use "if/then" statements to introduce logic-based decision-making. Advanced Sensor Integration : Combine multiple sensors to enable more sophisticated behaviors, such as navigation or object detection. Robot Movement Control : Fine-tune robot movement with more precise programming, incorporating different speeds, turning rates, and paths. Complex Task Automation : Create programs that allow robots to perform multi-step tasks automatically, such as navigating a maze or sorting objects based on color. 6. Collaboration and Teamwork Group Projects : Work on collaborative projects where teams design, build, and program robots to solve a shared problem or challenge. Communication Skills : Develop teamwork and communication skills while discussing strategies, troubleshooting problems, and sharing ideas with peers. 7. Testing and Debugging Problem Identification : Teach students how to troubleshoot and debug code, analyzing both hardware (e.g., motor connections) and software (e.g., programming errors). Performance Testing : Test robots in different scenarios and adjust the design or code based on results. Iteration and Refinement : Emphasize the importance of iterative testing and refinement to improve robot performance and functionality. 8. Real-World Applications of Robotics Robots in Industry : Discuss the role of robotics in manufacturing, healthcare, and other industries. Robotics Ethics and Future Trends : Explore ethical considerations, such as privacy and job displacement, and look ahead at how robotics may shape the future. 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 Wednesdays 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

From $1

Robotics with Snapology | Semester Two

Wed, May 13 · 3:00 PM

S.T.E.A.M Lab · LIC

In this game-focused robotics program, your engineer will explore the basics of robotics while playing some really awesome games with and against their classmates! While working with a partner to complete various challenges, your student will be taught how to effectively utilize sensors, how different mechanical components work in their robots, and how programming is a challenging but rewarding skill that they can master with just a little practice. We will support them in the development of their coding and building skills and inspire them with creative building challenges and awesome games! CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE EXPERIENCE TRAILER WHAT THE STUDENTS WILL LEARN Programming Skills With each new model, students will be given a program to operate their robotic build. They will learn how to read the program code and then fix an error to make the code useable. By fixing errors in a broken program code, students will learn how to debug and modify their programs quickly. Whether making their build respond to various sensors, adding loops and fun sounds, or modifying variables, children will learn valuable programming skills through the Scratch-based coding platform. Mechanical Elements In each activity, students will be asked to identify the key mechanical components used in each robotic model. They will complete this before they ever build the model so they better understand how the pieces work together in the final design. They will understand the importance and use of motors, sensors, gears, axles, their robot Hub and so much more. Following Instructions An important component of this program is following verbal and written instructions. Throughout each lesson, your student will be required to listen, pick up on routines and follow instructions in order to complete the model and interact with their builds. The best part, practicing this skill comes easy in this program because your student is having fun and supported each step of the way. Communication and Collaboration Skills Small groups and peer partners are key components of Snapology's educational approach. We emphasize positive teamwork skills and constantly work to develop healthy, respectful collaborations between students. Through team projects and fun partner experiences, your student will 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 Robotic Activity 4:00-5:30pm: Feature Activity 5:30-5:45 pm: Free Choice & Parent Pickup ADDITIONAL DETAILS Complimentary Bus Stop Pickup Available Classes are held on all Wednesdays 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

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Video Game Design

About this event

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