Kids in Mississippi Mills can build and code their own robots this fall, as the public library brings back its popular LEGO Robotics programs. The free sessions start September 12 and offer hands-on STEM learning for children aged 8 and up.
The Mississippi Mills Public Library announced the return of two programs: LEGO Sumobots for ages 8 and up, where kids design robots for sumo battles, and LEGO Maze Challenge for ages 10 and up, where robots navigate mazes. Participants will build and program robots using LEGO Spike kits and Scratch, a block-based coding language, with instruction from Steampunk Education instructors.
“LEGO Robotics is back at the Mississippi Mills Public Library this fall,” the library said in an August 12 news post. “These hands-on STEM programs offer a fantastic opportunity for kids to explore robotics, engineering, and programming in a fun and engaging environment for FREE!”
Registration opened August 15 for the September 12 Sumobots session, and only 8 spots are available per session. Registration is required and spaces fill up quickly, with sign-up opening 4 weeks before each session. The programs are free thanks to support from the Elizabeth Kelly Foundation.
The library has a history of STEM programming, including a STEM collection created in 2020-21 with the foundation that includes LEGO EV3 Robotics, a 3D printer, and Ozobots. The library serves about 13,299 residents, with 46% holding active library cards — a rate notably higher than the 39% recorded by the comparable community of North Grenville.
