Learn, build and play…with LEGO bricks
(ROCKWALL-May 22, 2013) Many of today’s parents and teachers realize that in order for our nation to raise up the next generation of innovators and critical thinkers, there must be an increased emphasis on STEM education – the study of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Kevin and Natalie Shepherd, Rockwall residents and parents of a seven-year-old daughter, want to make a difference – beginning right here in their hometown.
“It’s critical to get kids involved in science, math, teamwork and problem solving at an early age. The key is doing so while allowing children to still be children,” said Natalie, whose background is in counseling and play therapy.
She and her husband, Kevin, a practicing civil engineer, recently introduced “Bricks 4 Kidz” to families and schools in the Rockwall area. Bricks 4 Kidz programs are designed to teach STEM principles to boys and girls ages 3-13, using LEGO® bricks in a fun and interactive environment.
“As someone who works in city planning and engineering, I see a widening gap between the number of kids getting into science and math related fields, and what the job market demands. We need to get more young kids interested in STEM, keep them engaged, and train them into the next architects and engineers,” said Kevin. “My wife and I love working with children. Bricks4Kidz is right in the bullseye for all of this.”
“Our programs provide a safe, relaxed learning environment where initiative is invited and self-expression is celebrated.” ~ Kevin Shepherd, Owner/Managing Director, Bricks 4 Kidz– Rockwall/Heath.
Whether at summer camp, a birthday party or an after-school enrichment class, Bricks 4 Kidz activities help to ignite children’s imaginations and build self-confidence. Programs follow proprietary model plans, designed by engineers and architects – with themes like space, construction and amusement parks. With more than 240 locations in 38 states and 12 countries, Bricks 4 Kidz is earning high praise for its positive impact in local communities, and was recently named one of Entrepreneur Magazine’s fastest growing franchises in the nation.
SUMMER CAMPS
Here in Rockwall, Bricks 4 Kidz summer camps are filling quickly, with program options that include Animal Grossology, Remote Control Mania, Space Adventures, Mining and Crafting, SuperHero Academy, Movie Making and Robotics – to name a few.
A special Bricks 4 Girls camp will be available July 22-26 and August 12-16, where young ladies can make LEGO® jewelry while learning about social skills and self-esteem with their favorite LEGO® Friends.
“No boys at this one,” said Natalie. “Not even the teachers.”
Most camps are offered from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, but due to popular demand, parents now have the flexibility of enrolling their kids on a Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday schedule instead. Class sizes range from six students to no more than 20. For a complete lineup of summer camps and to register, visit bricks4kidz.com/texas-rockwall-rowlett.
Kevin and Natalie are also excited to announce that Bricks 4 Kidz has been approved to host after-school classes at all Rockwall ISD campuses beginning next fall.
“These one hour enrichment classes will explore architecture and technology concepts using LEGO® bricks,” Kevin said. “Sessions are customized to fit the current school curriculum in order to strengthen and expand students’ learning. Also, after every class, parents will receive an email or take-home flyer summarizing what their child learned and built that day. We want parents to see the value they’re getting by enrolling their child in our programs.”
Kevin added that he is exploring partnership opportunities with the Rockwall Chamber of Commerce and organizations like the Boys and Girls Club, with the goal of creating programs that will develop Rockwall County’s future workforce.
“I envision middle schoolers becoming involved in Future Cities – a Sim City based design competition that I have judged for several years – and perhaps utilizing my engineering firm, Verdunity, to work with high school students and the city to design real projects right here in our community,” he said.
Kevin and Natalie have plans to open a Creativity Center later this year, but in the meantime area are also booking mobile birthday parties, in-school field trips and other special events where they bring the fun and learning to your location.
“We look forward to having tons of fun, meeting new friends, shaping young minds, and working together to build a better future for our children and community,” said Kevin.
Keep up with all the good things happening at Bricks 4 Kids by visiting their Facebook page and website, emailing kshepherd@bricks4kidz.com, or calling 214-425-6720. Or view the video below to see Bricks 4 Kidz in action.
By Dawn Redig, Blue Ribbon News, all rights reserved. Photos by Bricks 4 Kidz.
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