Join us every Saturday for a FUN, hands on exploration into different areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math! Students will take part in unique activities and collaborative challenges plus create take-home projects using high-tech Fab Lab equipment like the vinyl cutter, laser cutter, foam cutter and more.
STEAM Saturdays classes are developed for students, by our talented high school instructors.
Saturdays, 9:00am-1:00pm
$50 per class, includes all supplies
Please pay close attention to the grade range for each class. Do not enroll in a class if your child does not meet the specified grade. The registration portal has the most up to date information regarding sold out classes.
october 2024
10/5: Woodworking (6-8th grade) SOLD OUT- Waitlist available
10/5: Statistics of Games (4-5th grade) Limited spots remain
10/12: Biotechnology (6-8th grade)
10/12: Little Engineers (2-3rd grade) SOLD OUT- Waitlist available
10/19: Astronomy (4-5th grade) Limited spots remain
10/26: Trick or Treat Food Science (2-3rd grade) SOLD OUT- Waitlist available
10/26: Halloween Forensics (6-8th grade) SOLD OUT- Waitlist available
10/26: Halloween Maker Workshop (2-3rd grade) Limited spots remain
NOVEMBER 2024
11/2: Art in Motion (2-3rd grade) SOLD OUT- Waitlist available
11/2: Civil Engineering (4-5th grade) Limited spots remain
11/9: Gardening (4-5th grade)
11/9: Fireball Chemistry (6-8th grade) SOLD OUT- Waitlist available
11/16: AI Super Saturday (6-8th grade):AFTERNOON Class, 2-6pm
11/16: Rocketry (4-5th grade) SOLD OUT- Waitlist available
11/23: Python Coding (4-5th grade) SOLD OUT- Waitlist available
11/23: Biology (6-8th grade)
11/30: Machine Madness: Jewelry Making (6-8th grade) Limited spots remain
11/30: Chemistry (2-3rd grade) SOLD OUT- Waitlist available
DECEMBER 2024
12/7: Nuclear Engineering (6-8th grade) Limited spots remain
12/7: Architecture (4-5th grade) Limited spots remain
12/7: Python Coding (6-8th grade)
12/14: Santa’s Maker Workshop (2-3rd grade) SOLD OUT- Waitlist available
12/14: Machine Madness: Winter Sports Extravaganza (4-5th grade)
12/21: Anatomy (6-8th grade)
12/21: Cozy Crafts (2-3rd grade) SOLD OUT- Waitlist available
12/21: Computer-Aided Design (6-8th grade) Limited spots remain
January-April 2025 classes will be posted in November
please remember to abide by grade levels when enrolling. thank you!
New to the Fab Lab? For your first time registering, simply click the Get Started button after clicking the green button above and follow the prompts to add your child(ren) as "Members." Once your children are added, select "Enroll in a Program" from the "Youth Memberships" screen and choose the 2022-23 STEAM Saturdays session(s) you wish to enroll in. You will checkout on the secured site from there. Please follow the same process to be added to a waitlist. You will NOT be charged when waitlisted. If you have any questions, call 941-840-4394 or info@suncoastscience.org.
CLASS DESCRIPTIONS
Click the class name below for the full description
2-3rd grade classes
Art in Motion
Join us for an exciting day of art and physics! Dive into the exciting connections between science and creativity, explore how light and color work together to create beautiful artwork, discover how physics principles like motion and balance influence artistic designs, and experiment with materials to see how different textures and properties affect artistic rendering. Through hands-on projects and interactive activities, young artists will learn how understanding physics can enhance their art and make their creations even more amazing.
Led by Ariana
Chemistry
Dive into the exciting world of Chemistry at the Fab Lab! This hands-on adventure invites young scientists to explore the wonders of chemistry through fun and interactive experiments. Kids will create reactions, learn basic lab safety, and understand how chemistry is a part of our everyday lives. Join us for a day of laughter, learning, and scientific discovery, and leave with a newfound appreciation for the science that makes our world so fascinating!
Led by Ariana & Rohan
Cozy Crafts
Fluffy blankets, warm sweaters, hot cocoa, holiday cheer– December truly is the season of comfort! Come spend a morning making soft sock animals, tasty winter treats, and holiday gifts. It’ll make your “happiest time of the year” feel even cozier!
Led by Elena
Halloween Maker Workshop
Boo! Laser engraving pumpkins, crafting a costume, making a haunted house – all these activities have something in common: design! Design and laser cut pumpkins, witch hats, vinyl-cut spooky stickers and more at Halloween Maker Workshop STEAM Saturdays!
Led by Alex
Little Engineers
It’s time to engineer your world! Join us for a day of creative design as we explore a variety of engineering fields. Students will discover their inner engineers as they use lasercut pieces to create their own houses, assemble mini wind turbines, and many other projects. By having fun while learning and practicing the engineering design process, students will be able to get a better understanding of the world they live in!
Led by Prabhav & Bella
Trick or Treat Food Science
Boo! Join us to stir up some Halloween concoctions! We will train to be professional witches by mixing, stirring, and eating our way through some classic holiday foods. What makes marshmallows so gooey? How can we make candy corn so sweet? Campers will use science to find out– treating their taste buds to a fun mix of tricks and surprises.
Led by Kenzie
Santa's Maker Workshop
Welcome to Santa’s Workshop! Join us for a magical day of construction, creativity, and inventiveness! We'll use various Fab Lab machines to create crafts and toys, all while learning the design process and the importance of imagination! Start with the elf training sessions to learn how to design, build, and test your creations, and decorate projects to add the finishing touch. Then we'll explore different machines and create our own gifts in the workshop to keep or give away as gifts. Don't miss this holiday adventure filled with building, fabricating, and festive fun!
Led by Kenzie & Ariana
4-5th grade classes
Architecture
Aspiring architects! Discover the fascinating world of buildings and bridges while exploring the basics of physics and structural design. Through fun, hands-on activities, kids will learn how structures stand tall, why certain shapes are strong, and how forces like gravity and balance work together to create stable designs. From creating their own model cities, experimenting with different building materials, and creating buildings as a response to certain environments, this class will inspire young minds to think like real architects!
Led by Aashima
Astronomy
Let's blast off into the amazing cosmos at the Fab Lab! We're going to explore our stunning solar system, our unbelievable universe and everything in between! We'll use entertaining hands-on activities, spectacular demonstrations and epic experiments to get a full understanding of our cosmological neighborhood! We are going to have an astronomically awesome time!
Led by Jake
Civil Engineering
Get ready to explore the amazing world of building and design! In this camp, students will dive into the vast field of civil engineering via a series of fun, hands-on projects. From designing bridges to creating everyday infrastructure, they’ll get to use their creativity and teamwork skills while also learning how engineers solve real-world problems. This camp is perfect for curious minds ready to discover how their ideas can help shape the world!
Led by Parker
Gardening
Did you know that the Fab Lab is starting a garden? Come help prepare, plan, and plant our new garden beds and learn how to take plain old dirt to green and dazzling! Not only will campers start the Lab’s garden, but they will acquire the knowledge and tools to start a home garden of their own.
Led by Elena
Machine Madness: Winter Sports Extravaganza
Get ready for an action-packed, gear-turning good time at Machine Madness: Winter Sports Extravaganza! Using our machines at the Fab Lab, we will compete in many different events, from fast-paced games to teamwork challenges. Whether your child loves to "pump up" their fitness or "crank up" their competitive spirit, this camp will have them running like a well-oiled machine! It’s the perfect way to keep them active and engaged this winter—no assembly required!
Led by Jake
Python Coding
Get ready to discover your hidden coding superpowers as we enter into the exciting world of Python! In this camp, students will learn the basics of the Python coding language, such as displaying their favorite catchphrases or doing calculations. Then, they will learn how to draw and create their own digital art using Python! No previous coding experience is needed; the only requirement is a great attitude and a big imagination!
Led by Prabhav & Alex
Rocketry
3, 2, 1, blast off! Guided by the Fab Lab’s Rocketry Club: TeamTrueFire students will launch into a cosmic journey. While exploring the different areas of rocketry, the little astronauts will learn about the engineering and aerodynamics that go into building a rocket. They'll get to launch their very own space cruiser while learning and using the engineering design process.
Led by Bella & Daniel
Statistics of Games
Have you ever wondered how math can help you win your favorite games? In this exciting camp, students will discover the incredible power of statistics by analyzing and playing games! Through fun activities and challenges, they’ll learn to organize and understand data, applying it to games of chance, sports, and more! By the end, they’ll not only have sharpened their math skills but also see how numbers can help solve everyday puzzles!
Led by Parker
6-8th grade classes
AI Super Saturday
Join us for a day full of artificial intelligence! In this super STEAM Saturday, we’re exploring a variety of concepts related to AI, ranging from computer vision to image generators to natural language processors! Students will learn about the concepts, including Python, and will leave with a basic understanding of how AI specifically works. By the end of the class, students will have several hands-on activities completed including creating their own AI applications.
Led by Rohan & Kenzie
Anatomy
Join us for an exciting journey of exploration in the fascinating world of anatomy! This engaging, hands-on experience will provide young students with a look into how the body is structured and why it is so incredible! Discover the major body systems, create models of body structures and more! Students will gain a deeper appreciation for their own bodies and how they work, leaving with new knowledge, projects, and a greater understanding of how anatomy is a vital part of their health.
Led by Alex & Ariana
Biology
Discover the wonders of life at the Fab Lab! Campers will dive into the amazing world of living organisms through interactive experiments and hands-on activities. We will explore challenging concepts through engaging activities like DNA extractions, dissections and terrarium building. This camp is perfect for curious minds ready to learn how biology shapes the world around us!
Led by Aashima
Biotechnology
Step into the future of science as you explore the cutting-edge world of biotechnology! From learning about biotechnical applications to creating their own biotechnical products using Fab Lab machinery, campers will discover the world of organ engineering, public health product developments, and more! Through thrilling hands-on experiments, you’ll learn how biotechnology is shaping medicine, agriculture, and even space exploration. If you’re excited about science and technology, this class is the place to be!
Led by Aashima
Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
Combine engineering passion with artistic ability, and it results in Computer-Aided Design! Students will learn about several CAD softwares, including Fusion360, and will create personal 2D designs that will be laser cut! Additionally, through hands-on activities, students will gain a better understanding of the importance of the CAD process used to create physical products in the real world.
Led by Rohan
Fireball Chemistry
Boom! Pow! Get ready to ignite excitement and curiosity in this fire-filled class. Campers will feel sparks ignite as they learn how things like fireworks work and how flames can burn in rainbow colors. What better way for campers to further their knowledge of chemistry than with a bang? Let’s be star scientists!
Led by Kenzie
Halloween Forensics
Get ready for a spook-tacular adventure at the Fab Lab! Become a detective for the day and solve eerie mysteries using real forensic science techniques. From fingerprinting and examining clues to analyzing blood splatter patterns, and using chemical reactions to discover evidence, campers will explore the science behind crime-solving with a fun, Halloween twist. With hands-on activities and creepy cases to crack, this class will be a thrilling experience for all young investigators!
Led by Aashima
Machine Madness: Jewelry Making
Unleash your creativity and build your technical skills with jewelry making! This time, it’s no ordinary craft: learn how to use machines like the laser cutter, soldering iron, and the 3D printer to personalize customized accessories. Join us for the unique opportunity to use the machines and bring home beautiful jewelry you won’t forget.
Led by Jiayi
Nuclear Engineering
Dive into the fascinating world of nuclear science! We will take students on a journey through the fundamentals of nuclear engineering, exploring how nuclear energy is harnessed and the role of radiation in our world. We'll cover the basics of atomic structure, different types of radiation, and the practical applications of nuclear technology, from power generation to medical uses. Through hands-on activities, students will come home ready to surprise you with fun facts about one of the most important scientific breakthroughs ever.
Led by Daniel & Ariana
Python Coding
What do Instagram, Spotify and Chat-GPT have in common? All of them were coded using Python! Join us as we learn Python and unlock our programming minds. This camp will go through the basics of the language as well as the many ways it can be used in their daily lives. By the end, campers will have coded their first game completely in Python. No prior experience is necessary – just an eagerness to learn and explore!
Led by Prabhav & Bella
Woodworking
Stop! Hammer time! Have you ever wanted to learn how to become a master builder? You wood be in luck. Campers will learn how to use machines like laser cutters, drills, and saws with proper safety. With many options on what to create, from bird houses to mini candy dispensers, every camper is sure to find a project worth taking home. Let’s carve out some time for creativity!
Led by Kenzie & Elena
STEAM Saturdays Policies & Expectations
Drop-Off and Pick-Up
Check in will take place at 9:00am, inside the main entrance located near the rear of the building. A volunteer or staff member will help you check in your child. If someone other than you will be picking up your child, please notify lab staff at check in.
You are also required to sign your child out when picking them up at 1:00pm. Again, this will be done inside the building and a volunteer will retrieve your child from the lab or classroom.
General Health and Safety
The lab and its machines and equipment are regularly professionally cleaned and sanitized with EPA-approved products.
Antibacterial hand soap is available in restrooms and antibacterial hand sanitizer is available throughout the lab for easy access and use.
Dress Code
Students should wear comfortable, fitted, casual clothing and CLOSED TOE and CLOSED HEEL shoes. Gym or tennis shoes – NO SANDALS, CROCS or FLIP FLOPS permitted. Loose clothing and jewelry are not permitted for safety purposes and long hair must be secured.
Snacks
Please pack a snack for your child to enjoy during the daily designated snack time. Snacks WILL NOT be provided. Please make sure your child brings a water bottle that can be refilled at the lab.
Release Forms
Waitlists
The registration portal has the most current information regarding open spots and waitlists. You will NOT be charged when adding yourself to a class waitlist. Students on the waitlist will be notified in the order they were added to the waitlist if a spot becomes available. We will notify you as early as possible by phone or email if there is an opportunity to move off the waitlist and include instructions on how to make payment.
Cancellations & Refund Policy
Cancellations must be made at least 10 days in advance of your enrolled class session to qualify for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 10 days from class will qualify for a 50% refund. Cancellations made the same day of class do NOT qualify for a refund. All refunds are subject to a 2% processing fee. Cancellations must be made in writing to info@suncoastscience.org or by calling 941-840-4394. Cancellations by voicemail will not be accepted. No-shows do not qualify for a refund. If your child has to be picked up early, there is no refund for class time missed.
We reserve the right to cancel a class if 8 or fewer students are enrolled. In the case of a cancellation due to low enrollment, a full refund will be provided.
Student Expectations
For each student to have a positive, safe experience in STEAM Saturdays classes, we have established the following expectations.
- Walking is our preferred mode of transportation while working in the lab! Please refrain from running.
- No food or drink (including candy and gum) is allowed in classroom or machine areas unless agreed upon with staff or volunteers. Snacks you bring will be set aside for snack time.
- The Golden Rule… Treat others as you would like to be treated! This means raising your hand to speak, respecting others’ personal space and keeping your hands to yourself, being considerate and helpful, using appropriate language, etc.
- Treat our machines and tools respectfully... like they are your own!
- There may be other programs running concurrently with STEAM Saturdays. Please be sure to stay with your group at all times.
Three Strikes Policy
To reinforce these rules and encourage an appropriate and safe learning environment, we employ the “Three Strikes and You’re Out” policy in relation to the above expectations.
- Strike 1 (Reminder): A reminder of our expectations will be given to the student.
- Strike 2 (Warning): The student will be removed from class activities for a short period of time.
- Strike 3 (Action): We will contact you to immediately pick up your child from the lab. Depending on the severity of the behavior, future participation in lab activities may be impacted.
Meet your FABulous instructors
STEAM Saturdays classes are developed for students, by talented student instructors that are part of our Student Planning & Education Committee (SPEC). Click here to learn more about the program and instructors!