Three Reasons Why IDEA Lab Kids Curriculum Stands Out in the Children’s Education Space

IDEA Lab Kids was created by mother-of-three Ghazal Qureshi when she noticed a lack of children’s education programming that was intellectually stimulating while being grounded in tangible, hands-on applications. Founded in Houston, Texas in 2011, IDEA Lab Kids now offers more than 50 unique courses that integrate elements of science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) within a multi-discipline, engaging curriculum for children ages 4 to 14. IDEA Lab Kids’ services include after-school care and classes, preschool, workshops, birthday experiences and camps.

The brand sets itself apart from other supplemental education or STEM-focused programs by developing courses that utilize the additional discipline of art (the ‘A’ in STEAM) as a vehicle through which children are able to access developmentally-appropriate learning through deconstructed, complex scientific systems. The curriculum, which has been cultivated in part by Director of Research Development Kristopher Ellis, sets children up for success and allows them to execute advanced projects through step-by-step instruction. Ellis spoke to the three methods IDEA Lab Kids implements to enact this one-of-a-kind educational model.

Real-World Applications

“I always use my own daughter as an example,” said Ellis on how the STEAM structure gives students opportunities to understand challenging concepts through creative means. “She’s not really interested in the technical aspects of what we do, but she is very much into animation and art. If we are using something like an LED array to create animations, she will learn the technical processes behind LED programming in order to execute an artistic project.”

“Using a STEAM approach interests far more students than would normally be drawn to just science, technology, engineering or mathematics,” Ellis continued. “A huge part of our job is to demystify technology. We take on very sophisticated work, but we do so in such a way that holds students' attention spans while also being there for them every step of the way.”

As the educational priorities for children shift, Ellis believes that IDEA Lab Kids gives kids an opportunity to learn real skills that can be applied to multiple disciplines. “Today you’re judged more on what you can do rather than what you’re supposed to know,” said Ellis. “Whether someone goes on to be a doctor, an engineer, a chef, or an artist, these classes give them the tools to succeed in any environment.”

Not only that, but IDEA Lab Kids consistently offers courses that utilize state-of-the-art technology that keeps its curriculum on the cutting edge of education. “Whenever we see a new system or approach to learning, we pivot our curriculum to meet those new ideas, demands and interests,” said Ellis.

“For example, 3-D printing is something that has gained popularity in the last few years, but we’ve been teaching it for at least eight years now,” said Ellis. He also cited the growing popularity of robotics programs in schools. “My own son has been around IDEA Lab Kids for years and he participates in competitive programming and robotics because of the exposure he has had through our robust curriculum. When he does those programs, he often ends up teaching those classes to the other students!”

Personalized Instruction

IDEA Lab Kids courses maintain a low student-to-instructor ratio and a positive, inclusive classroom environment. “Our plan is to maintain a 12-to-1 ratio for classes, and there are no educational requirements other than a willingness to learn.”

This classroom structure allows for personalized learning that is tailored to children of every skill level, while also keeping students active and engaged. Ellis said that IDEA Lab Kids takes the intimidation out of highly technical work. “Our instructors keep it fun, light, practical and hands-on.”

Ellis emphasizes that IDEA Lab Kids courses are more than just fun experiments. “We always start by trying to teach an actual lesson,” said Ellis. “If I can research a topic or process and find within it a valuable takeaway, make it fun for the students and make parents happy with their child’s progress, I feel like I have done what I set out to do.”

Emotional Skill Building

“Integrating art helps kids feel so much more connected to the more technical aspects of projects,” said Ellis. This, in turn, helps children build confidence. “Once they have the confidence to make something, they will have the confidence to explore and the confidence to learn. It’s really empowering.”

“We teach children how to code starting with fundamentals,” said Ellis, a highly advanced skill even to adults. “We do simple coding, but when we get down to the nuts and bolts of doing their first real code, it is a lot less difficult than they think. We have opened up a lot of doors for the kids who come to IDEA Lab Kids. It’s not so much about teaching them everything, but about exposing them to new things in a way that empowers them to want to learn more.”

In this sense, IDEA Lab Kids sets students up for much more than learning a cool skill like building a robot or coding a website—the curriculum fosters an inquisitiveness, excitement and passion for learning that extends well beyond the classroom and prepares them for the future.

The total startup investment for IDEA Lab Kids ranges from $160,500 to $373,000 including a $35,500 single-unit and a $102,500 five-unit franchise fee. Financing options are available for those who qualify.