From Coding to Caring for Animals: Why We’re Signing Up for STEM Programs in Howard County, MD this Fall
Howard County Rec & Parks is making science and tech more accessible (and fun!) than ever for kids K–12.
If you’ve been around here for a while, you know I’m always on the lookout for activities that check all my mom boxes: fun, educational, convenient, and something my kids will actually want to do more than once. And friends, I think I’ve found the jackpot.
This fall, Howard County Recreation & Parks is rolling out a lineup of STEM programs that might just be the most exciting thing on our family calendar, and no, I’m not exaggerating. We’re talking robots, video games, animal care, 3D modeling, ocean exploration, even first aid and surgical basics for kids.
And the best part? Many of these programs happen right at our kids’ schools after dismissal, meaning no extra driving, no rushing to another building, no sitting in traffic for “just one more activity.” I know I’m not the only mom who just took a deep breath of relief reading that.
Why I’m Excited About STEM for My Kids
As a mom, I’m always thinking about the skills my kids will need in the future. My kids love to tinker, build, and create. They can spend hours making a “machine” out of cardboard boxes and tape. They also like to take toys and objects apart to see how it works, which sometimes means broken toys, but also means they’re curious in the best possible way.
STEM programs nurture those exact traits: curiosity, problem-solving, and creativity. And they do it in a way that’s structured but still feels like play.
When I saw the 159 STEM class sections being offered this fall by HCRP, I immediately started making a list of which ones my kids would love, and, honestly, which ones I wish I could join too.
STEM Classes That Caught My Eye
Here’s just a sampling of what’s on the menu for Fall 2025:
Robotics using VEX 123 – Kids get hands-on with robotics and programming, starting with simple control and moving into block-based coding. (32 sections available, clearly a favorite!)
Little LEGO® Engineers – For the builders in your life, this is all about gears, axles, and motors, and yes, they get to program their creations.
Under the Sea – Perfect for an ocean-obsessed kid, this class dives into marine science and the creatures that call the ocean home.
Veterinary Medicine After School – If your child has already decided they’re going to be a “pet doctor,” this one should be high on your list.
First Responders for Kids – Teaching safety and first aid skills in a way that’s empowering and age-appropriate.
And for the older kids in the community, there are classes in Drone Programming, 3D Modeling with Roblox, Artificial Intelligence, and YouTube Production. I love that HCRP is thinking beyond elementary school and giving teens real-world tech experience.
STEM Is More Than Just Academics
One of the things I love most about STEM programs is that they teach so much more than just “science” or “math.” They’ll also:
Work together in teams.
Learn how to communicate their ideas.
Practice problem-solving when something doesn’t work the first time.
Build resilience when they have to try again.
These are life skills that go far beyond the classroom. They’re the kind of skills that stick with kids well into adulthood.
A Peek at the Full Lineup
If you want to see just how diverse the offerings are, here are a few more options that jumped out at me:
2D Game Design & Development – Kids design their own browser-based games using Scratch or Construct 3.
Animation Using Minecraft – Because if they’re going to play Minecraft, why not learn animation while they’re at it?
Engineering the Future – A mix of coding, robotics, science, and math.
Future Surgeons – Learn about surgery, tools, and procedures in a hands-on, age-appropriate way.
Reptile Rangers – For the animal lovers who want to learn about snakes, lizards, turtles, and frogs.
Science Club After School – Themes like Super Mario Science Mayhem make science feel like an adventure.
And that’s just a fraction of what’s offered. You can see the full list in the Howard County Recreation & Parks Fall Activity Guide.
How to Register
Registration for Howard County Recreation & Parks STEM programs is now open, and with 159 class sections covering robotics, coding, game design, veterinary science, marine biology, and more, spots fill fast. Browse all HCRP programs by age. From after-school programs held right at local schools to weekend workshops for teens, these classes make it easy for K–12 students in Howard County to explore, discover, and create. Don’t wait, register today and give your future engineer, scientist, or innovator the chance to shine this fall.
