Today, robots are used to safely dispose of bombs, perform medical procedures, assemble vehicles, and explore the earth and outer space, just to name a few functions. As science and technology continue to advance, so do the capabilities of robots. 

Robotics is even making a difference in our classrooms. Many schools now offer courses in robotics where students learn about computer programming, coding, and other STEM topics. For students who can’t attend school in person due to chronic illness, robotics offers a way to help. Students can now access education from home through telepresence robots. 

Curious about robotics and the educational benefits? Here’s what you need to know about this exciting field. 

Innovation is core to robotics and innovative thinkers make the world go round. Kids are naturally curious about the world; they want to know how things work. Today’s kids are digital natives who see technology as integral to their lives. Robotics offers them the opportunity to become active participants in the design of their future. When kids design, code, and control their very own robots, they get to see firsthand how technology works. 

Robotics competitions in K12 schools demonstrate how robotics can bring kids together and learn how to work as a team. Additionally, there are numerous robotics camps that kids can attend and meet like-minded peers. At Chicago Public Schools, 7th graders recently worked in teams to build robots that could perform specific tasks. Not only did this activity help develop STEM skills, but it also helped students learn how to successfully collaborate. 

Robotics capture all aspects of STEM. A STEM-focused education is about more than science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. STEM education involves hands-on learning and real-world applications to help children develop a variety of skill sets, including innovative problem solving, technical literacy, and design thinking. These 21st-century skills will go a long way as students prepare to enter higher education or join the workforce. 

Robotics is a vast field; there is truly something for everybody whether you are in kindergarten or a senior in high school. With educational robots like KIBO, kids as young as kindergarten level can design, program, and decorate their own robots. As students get older, they can move on to more advanced robotic programs like the NAO Robot. 

Ready to get involved in the world of robotics? Look for events near you, like the Chicago Robotics Invitational or the Snapology LEGO and Robotics Summer Camp to spark an interest in your children. Before taking the leap, it’s a great idea to work on some fundamental STEM skills with a private tutor to make sure your child is ready to start coding and designing. 

Club Z! Tutoring of Glenbrook specializes in providing individualized, in-home, and virtual tutoring for students K-12 in Northbrook and Glenview. If you want your child to work on developing skills that will translate to improved grades and self-esteem, contact us today at: bbalatsos@clubztutoring.com.