Sphero with charging base and ramps. I'm pleased to announce that I'm a Sphero Ambassador. This is a sponsored post as part of my work with the brand. This giveaway is now closed. Congrats to GR, entrant #42, chosen by random.org. The summer slide refers to academic skills that slip and dip over the summer when reading and writing take a backseat to swimming and s'mores. Some parents head off the dreaded slip in academic skills with ... [ Read More ]
One Tablet Per Child
The old XO One Laptop Per Child (OLPC) has received a makeover and will be available this spring in tablet form. Two tablet forms, actually- the XO-2 ($149) and the XO-10 ($199). I was an early adopter of the XO and purchased one back in 2007 when the purchase price included a laptop for the buyer and another one for a child in a developing nation.I cleaned up my office over winter break and dusted off my defunct XO. I offered one of my boys a ... [ Read More ]
More Great STEM Gifts for Kids
I think I've pointed out some pretty cool STEM gifts this year and in 2012. However, I've come across some other lists worth a look. Updated to add: here are exciting new STEM and Tech toys that made my 2014 list. More Great STEM Gifts for Tweens and Teens The folks at MAKE have a STEAM-y gift guide. Don't miss the Flipbookit and Skallops. NASA's Goddard Child Development Center has a guide to gifts with tips on finding toys that encourage ... [ Read More ]
Geocaching: High Tech Treasure Hunting
Finding the oldest geocache in the state of Wisconsin. In addition to being a great way to learn about new ideas and resources, #STEMchat is also a wonderful way to meet smart, interesting people. One of them, Julie Henning, @RoadTripsFeedMe, offered to share her insights about geocaching, a wonderful way to combine technology with family time and time in nature. Talk about an all-around win! Our local nature center offers a GPS device ... [ Read More ]
Look What We Did in 2012!
Not "we" as in the blog. I mean, I had my moments, but this is not about gazing at my navel. Rather, it's about cool things brought to life courtesy of science and tech. Pretty much every time I read the newspaper I fear for the future of the human race, and though I'm confident our planet will outlast me, I have concerns about the longevity of Mother Earth, too.That said, I think we live in pretty amazing times. Yes, it's hard to keep up and ... [ Read More ]
Raising Kids Who Love Math #STEMchat and Giveaway Sponsored by Texas Instruments Educational Technology
STEMchat just keeps getting better! I'm thrilled that Thursday night's chat (9 PM Eastern, 8 Central, 6 Pacific) has a rock-star panel that includes parents @JeanneBernish- a "math-not" with a son who plans to major in math in college next fall and @MissLori- who puts on a brave face so her kids don't fear math.The panel will also feature teacher and online education resource extraordinaire @TeachMama and Kelly Kutach, a Texas Instruments ... [ Read More ]
Look for the Maker Mom at the Morton Grove Farmers’ Market this Saturday
Mark your calendar! The Maker Mom has a guest appearance at the Morton Grove Farmers' Market this Saturday from 9 to noon.After fueling up with a cup of coffee and the best gluten-free goodies I've ever tasted, I'll be hosting a big Snap Circuits playdate as well as a chance for kids to create their own wacky marshmallow shooters.Who knows what else will be in store? I might even have a couple of goodies to give away to my new friends.Like The ... [ Read More ]