Just ahead of its upcoming birthday bash, the Hands-On Science Center (HOSC) has announced that registration for its 2026 After-School STEM Learning Program.

According to the science center, the after-school program will offer students “an engaging opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering, and coding through hands-on robotics and engineering challenges. HOSC officials added that the After-School STEM Learning Program is designed to complement classroom education by providing engaging experiences that strengthen STEM skills, foster creativity and encourage a lifelong love of learning.

Starting this past week on Thursday, Aug. 6, the program will feature two exciting courses designed to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and problemsolving while introducing students to real-world STEM concepts in a fun, supportive learning environment.

Students in Grades 3–5 can participate in Intro to Ozobot, where they will learn the fundamentals of coding and robotics using Ozobots. Through interactive activities and creative challenges, participants will discover how simple coding concepts can bring robots to life while strengthening logical thinking and teamwork. This program will be held on Thursdays from 4:30-5:30 p.m., and tuition is $65 a month or $195 for all 12 classes.

For students in Grades 6–8, Edison Create offers an exciting opportunity to design, build, and program Edison robots. Participants will tackle engineering challenges, develop coding skills, and collaborate on projects that encourage innovation and creative problemsolving. This program will be held on Thursdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m., and tuition is $65 a month or $195 for all 12 classes. Both classes will meet on Thursdays, starting from now until Oct. 29, with no class scheduled for Oct. 8. Sessions will be held at the science center’s campus, located at 101 Mitchell Blvd.

“Hands-on learning gives students the confidence to ask questions, solve problems, and think like scientists and engineers,” HOSC Executive Director Austin Sisco said. “Our after-school STEM programs provide an exciting space where students can build, code, create, and discover while having fun alongside their peers.”

Enrollment is limited to ensure each student receives individualized instruction and plenty of opportunities for hands-on exploration. Families are encouraged to register early, as spaces are expected to fill quickly.

To register for the Intro to Ozobot for grades 3-5 program, register at www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/intro-to-ozobotgrades- 3rd-5th. To register for the Edison Create for grades 6-8 program, visit www.zeffy.com/ en-US/ticketing/edison-createclasses- grades-6th-8th.

For more information, contact the Hands-On Science Center at 101 Mitchell Blvd. or visit the science center’s website and social media pages for updates on educational programs and events.

About the Hands-On Science Center The Hands-On Science Center is a nonprofit science museum dedicated to inspiring curiosity through interactive exhibits and engaging educational programs. Serving students, families, educators, and homeschool groups throughout Middle Tennessee, the Center provides memorable experiences that make science accessible, exciting, and fun for learners of all ages.