Art of Programming Using Scratch 2 and First LEGO League Jr.

CHATHAM – Second and third grade students explored the fundamentals of computer programming with the help of JerseySTEM, a volunteer network of parents, professionals, students and educators, which works to provide schools with STEM-oriented programs.

Their latest class, Scratch Programming & FIRST LEGO League Jr., has become a success, attracting students from Chatham, Summit, New Providence, Maplewood, and other neighboring towns. The workshop teaches children aged 6 to 10 basic engineering, robotics, coding, and programming concepts using a child-friendly approach.

Using the online version of Scratch, a graphical programming language, and LEGOS help students learn math and programming skills in a fun, exciting way while developing teamwork and presentation skills as well. Parents and young tutors volunteer as teachers, sharing responsibilities to keep the program at an affordable cost. JerseySTEM also aims to encourage active participation from girls as students and tutors to ensure that girls have the same exposure as boys in STEM classes.

Class coordinator and JerseySTEM parent volunteer, Virginie Aris said, “At first I thought the kids would not want to sit down and learn, but I was wrong, we can't get them to stop programming at the end of class. They love the subject, they love the idea of creating a program that's similar to the games they have been playing. And the student peer teachers imprint on the kids that programming is awesome and not just a boy thing!” Her daughter Amelie enjoys the class and said, “I like inventing new games and having fun.”

The student mentors learned about the challenges teaching young students. In addition to programming skills, the student mentors have been learning about the patience required to work with very young and exciting minds of students in second and third grades. “The respect from students and their parents alike is a hard earned valuable asset. The satisfaction of bringing out potential of those young students is priceless too. It’s like Team AIRO is on a mission to eliminate any doubts about how much second and third graders can do in a complex subject like ‘Programming’ at this age! They can do A LOT! We are all observing their abilities already.” Team AIRO (7th grader tutors & their parents)

This class program runs from September 17 – November 20, with weekend sessions that meet at the Chatham Middle School and at the JerseySTEM MakerPlace at Congregation Beth Hatikvah in Summit. More information regarding scheduling, volunteering, program benefits and more can be found at www.jerseystem.org.