FutureKiddie Bringing STEM Education to Kids 3-7 in Phoenix

PHOENIX - Aug. 19, 2015 - PRLog -- Learning the fundamentals of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) is now available for children ages 3-7 at 19 locations across the Valley through the FutureKiddie Discovery Kids Puterbugs program.

Founded in 2010 by Ken Chan, FutureKiddie offers classes that teach younger kids computer skills and introduces them to reading, writing, math and problem solving. The program is offered year round, one day per week or bi-weekly, at schools in Tempe, Ahwatukee, Chandler, Gilbert and Mesa.

The program uses software and special mini-laptops designed for small hands to teach through storytelling and games. Children wear bands with letters to help familiarize the children with the layout of a keyboard. Each session starts with an overview of the lesson, followed by instruction on how to use a mouse and other exercises.

According to Chan, “It’s so important for children to be exposed to the principles of STEM education at an early age.  In addition to being taught how to use a computer properly the kids learn to respect technology as a meaningful tool they will use all their lives.”

The classes range from 30-40 minutes in length and each child has access to their own laptop to learn technology concepts, letter and number recognition, leadership and teamwork development.  Music, art and crafts are also integrated into the program.

Tricia Noche’s son Ryder started taking the classes when he was 4 years old at the Joyful Beginnings Academy in Chandler. “What he’s learned has far exceeded my expectations.”

Noche says that Ryder, now 6, even knows how to search for files and complete homework assignments by himself.

The classes cost approximately $45 per month per child at specific locations offering the course as a separate program.  Schools who wish to offer the classes receive a lesser rate per child based on the number of participating students.

Chan is looking to expand the program to schools in Central, East and South Phoenix, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley

Class sizes range from 6-15 students. All instructors are background checked and are selected based on how well they work with kids and their love of technology.

FutureKiddie utilizes the Discovery Kids Puterbug STEM software designed by New Jersey-based Imagine Tomorrow.  Chan says that approximately 170-210 children attend the classes each year in Phoenix and that number is growing.  FutureKiddie also offers Summer Camps at several locations throughout the Valley.

One of the schools currently offering the program is the Goddard School in Gilbert which focuses on early childhood development.  Van Phan, owner of the school, says, “These classes are age-appropriate, challenging, fun and results-oriented. We’ve seen marked improvement in the students in the program. The kids always look forward to their computer lab time.”

Phan adds that, “From a logistical point of view, the mobile nature of the class is also excellent. When it's time for class, all the laptops and equipment are wheeled in. Right after the class, they are wheeled out. We don't have to invest in equipment or worry about storage.”

Chan, a self-taught technology enthusiast, immigrated to the US from Hong Kong with his parents in 1997 and is also the owner of Ironman Refurbished Business Computers (IRBC) based in Chandler.  IRBC was founded in 2012 and provides quality, certified-used, laptops to businesses and consumers.

For more information and participating locations, call (480) 331-3068, visit www.futurekiddie.com or email FutureKiddie@FutureKiddie.com.