Our STEM Programs

Hands-On Engineering, Robotics & Innovation Programs for Elementary Students in Cedar Rapids

At Design Your World, students don’t just learn about STEM.

They build it. Code it. Test it. Improve it.

Our programs are designed for curious elementary students who want real hands-on experiences in robotics, engineering, and invention — not worksheets, kits, or passive instruction.

We offer small-cohort, high-engagement STEM programs serving families in Cedar Rapids, Marion, Hiawatha, and surrounding Eastern Iowa communities.

Find the Right Fit for Your Builder

Each program offers a different pathway into engineering thinking. Some students love robotics competition. Others love invention and problem-solving. Others thrive in creative engineering labs.

Here’s how to choose.

Lego League Teams: Design. Build. Lead.

Our LEGO League teams offer a structured, high-rigor robotics experience for elementary students ready to think strategically and work collaboratively.

Students:

• Build and program LEGO SPIKE robots
• Solve mission-based engineering challenges
• Develop competition strategy
• Conduct research and present innovation projects
• Practice structured teamwork and leadership skills

This program is ideal for students who enjoy coding, mechanical design, and solving complex problems in a team environment.

Learn More About Lego League

Magic Pets™ Engineering Lab: Create. Code. Imagine.

Magic Pets™ blends creativity with real engineering principles. Students design and build interactive robotic creations while learning the foundations of coding and mechanical systems.

Students:

• Explore arduino, circuits, and electronics
• Learn coding through mBlock
• Blend creative storytelling with engineering principals
• Present their creations to peers
• Develop confidence through structured creativity

This program is perfect for elementary students who love building, imagining, and experimenting.

Learn More About Magic Pets

Invention Convention: Identify. Invent. Impact.

Invention Convention guides students through the full innovation process — from identifying a real-world problem to designing, testing, and presenting a solution.

Students:

• Research real challenges
• Design and prototype original inventions
• Test and improve their designs
• Build presentation and communication skills
• Develop resilience through iteration

This is ideal for independent thinkers who enjoy creative problem-solving and want to see their ideas come to life.

Learn More About Invention Convention

What Makes Our STEM Programs Different?

Unlike many after-school activities in Cedar Rapids, we intentionally maintain small cohorts to ensure:

• High robot-to-student ratios
• Meaningful hands-on time
• Strong peer culture
• Individualized challenge levels
• Real collaboration

We treat teamwork, engineering thinking, and resilience as skills that can be taught, practiced, and strengthened.

Our students leave not just as better builders — but as stronger thinkers and leaders.

Designed for Curious, Motivated Kids

Our programs are best suited for elementary students who:

• Love to build or tinker
• Ask big questions
• Thrive on challenge
• Enjoy working in teams
• Want more depth than traditional after-school programs provide

Whether your child is new to robotics or already experimenting at home, we create space for growth at every level.

Ready to Get Started?

Enrollment is limited to preserve our high-quality, hands-on experience.

If you're searching for a serious STEM program in Cedar Rapids that challenges and inspires — we invite you to explore the program that fits your child best.

Apply For A Cohort

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