By Jack Marflak
The Kearny-Belleville Elks Lodge #1050 will host a week-long STEM summer program designed to introduce children to the fundamentals of architecture through hands-on learning and model building.
The Future Architect STEM Summer Class is scheduled for Monday, Aug. 10, through Friday, Aug. 14, 2026, and will be held each day from 9 a.m. to noon at the Kearny Elks Lodge #1050, 601 Elm St., Kearny. Registration is due by August 5, 2026.
This hands-on program introduces children ages 6–10 to architecture, design, planning, and construction. Participants will use their creativity and problem-solving skills to design and build their own structures while learning basic architectural concepts in a fun and engaging environment.
The program is open to children ages 6 to 10 and is designed to provide participants with an introduction to architectural design, engineering concepts and creative problem-solving through interactive projects.
According to information released by the organizers, the class curriculum will focus on several key learning objectives. Students will explore real-world architecture concepts, design and build their own creative structures, develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and gain exposure to STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) principles through project-based activities.
Organizers say the program is intended to encourage children to think creatively while introducing them to the planning and design process used in architecture and construction. By working on building projects throughout the week, students will have the opportunity to apply concepts they learn during instruction to practical activities.
Each participant will receive an individual project kit that will be used during the course. The materials are included as part of the registration fee.
The cost to attend the five-day program is $215 per child and you must register by this Wednesday, August 5, 2026.
The Future Architect program is being presented as a STEM-focused educational experience that combines creativity with foundational engineering and design concepts. While geared toward elementary-age students, the curriculum is structured to provide age-appropriate instruction and hands-on activities that allow participants to work at their own pace while developing new skills.
“This class allows children to have hands-on experience learning new things. They develop problem solving skills and hand eye coordination all while having fun. These classes extend their science knowledge by touching on topics that are not typical for a school science class like robotics, architecture, chemicals, and more. Every child leaves with a smile on their face and excitement for what the next day will bring,” said one of the program’s instructors.
Architecture-based STEM programs have become increasingly popular in recent years because they expose children to multiple disciplines within a single project. Students are introduced to concepts such as planning, measurement, design, construction and problem-solving while working collaboratively and independently to complete building challenges.
The Kearny-Belleville Elks Lodge has hosted a variety of youth and community programs over the years, and this summer class adds another educational opportunity for local families seeking activities during the school break.
Additional information about the program, registration and availability is available through the registration form. Because enrollment is limited, organizers recommend registering as soon as possible to secure a spot before the class reaches capacity.
Parents can register using the following link:
https://forms.gle/pv89cwALKSwMxh6WA
Payment must be made in advance to secure the child’s space in the program.
Note: Featured image was created with Ai technology.
