WNY Family Magazine December 2018 | Page 25

Ask Dr. Universe: Join Dr. Wendy Sue Universe of Wash- ington State University on her site found at https://askdruni- verse.wsu.edu/. Get the latest answers, activities and videos related to hot science questions such as How are bones made? What’s a booger? Or — Why is the ocean salty? Planet Smarty Pants: is a blog written by an enthusiastic mom and filled with hundreds of activities exploring science, engineering and art. Great literature supporting STEM proj- ects are offered as well as the everyday activities she and her daughter do at home. (http://www.planetsmarty.com/) Ages 9 - Tweens Design Squad: Is a reality-based show in which teens aged fifteen to nineteen tackle real-life design problems. They design machines to solve problems. The teens compete to win college scholarship money. May be interesting to teens as well as the 9-12 group. (https://pbskids.org/designsquad/) Cyber-Chase: Jackie, Matt and Inez are earthlings who have been pulled into a digital universe. They work to- gether to keep their motherboard safe from Hacker. Math, weather and environmental knowledge help them solve their problems. (https:// pbskids.org/cyberchase/) STEM Collaborative: This site has four major compo- nents: math by design, road trip, scale city and proportionland. Each module offers virtual environments, simulations, videos and interactive math challenges. (http://stemcollaborative.org/) High School Xploration Outer Space: This two hour program is pro- duced by Emily Calandrelli, a former NASA employee. It is shown on FOX affiliate stations. Each of the four half-hour blocks focuses on STEM topics related to space exploration. All Levels PBS Learning Media: This site is a treasure trove of in- formation for all levels of learners, from Pre-K through Grade 12 and higher, in subjects including Social Studies, Engineer- ing and Technology, Mathematics, World Languages, The Arts, Science, Health and Physical Education, Engaging videos and interactive materials are available for classroom use and for individual students. (https://ny.pbslearningmedia.org/student/) Be sure to set an expectation for hands-on, real-life proj- ects done in your home as well as screen learning. Kids love to experiment and problem-solve. These sites are a great way to get their creative juices flowing and take them into the world of real-life applications of STEM learning. Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a retired teacher and the author of “Homegrown Readers” and “Homegrown Family Fun: Un- plugged.” Learn more at www.janpierce.net. Christ-Centered Education Half or Full Day PreK 3 & 4, K – 8th Grade The mission of Trinity Christian School is to guide our children in faith, learning, character and leadership by nurturing their relationship with Jesus Christ and educating them for a lifetime of service to God and man. Ranked #7 of WNY Middle Schools by Business First and #1 in West Seneca Loving, Nurturing Environment Secure Building/Safety Procedures in Place NLSA Accredited, NYS Standards Daily Devotions/Faith-Based Curriculum Before & After School Child Care Technology, Art, Music, Phys. Ed. Community Mission & Service Projects www.ThinkTrinityChristian.com 146 Reserve Rd • West Seneca, NY 716-674-5353 December 2018 WNY Family 25