TMC (Think, Make, Create) Trailers
Hands-On Learning and STEM Activities delivered to your doorstep!
TMC (Think, Make, Create) Trailers
Hands-On Learning and STEM Activities delivered to your doorstep!
Learn more about the TMC Trailer
The Think Create Make (TMC) Lab is a 6’x14’ foot traveling trailer that can be easily transported to various afterschool and summer programs around South Dakota.
The trailer is filled to the brim with high-quality, hands-on STEM activities that can occur either inside or outside using the provided tables and canopies. These small-but-mighty trailers can be delivered almost anywhere to bring a wide array of fun and educational projects to your program.
TMC Labs are a low-cost entry point to help youth of all ages in afterschool and summer programs throughout South Dakota become problem-solvers and makers. Kids will be involved in tinkering and hands-on learning that is designed to promote critical thinking, creativity, and independence.
Lessons Include:
- Paper Circuits
- Urban Field Guides
- Strawkets
- K’Nex
- Legos
- Visual Arts
- Textile Arts
- Cardboard Building
- Drones
- Virtual Reality
- And more….
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Programs have booked the TMC Trailer!
Check out the map to see where the TMC Trailer has visited!
TMC In Action!
What programs say about TMC Trailer
“The kids’ attitude towards exploration is bigger. They want to dig in and do their own stuff now more than they did before.”
“Having the TMC for a few weeks this summer added a ton of variety and a great change of pace for our staff and kids.”
“My students benefited from the exposure to new activities and the ability to talk about other organizations available statewide.”
“We’d have one every two weeks if we could!”
What programs say about TMC Trailer
“The kids’ attitude towards exploration is bigger. They want to dig in and do their own stuff now more than they did before.”
“Having the TMC for a few weeks this summer added a ton of variety and a great change of pace for our staff and kids.”
“My students benefited from the exposure to new activities and the ability to talk about other organizations available statewide.”
“We’d have one every two weeks if we could!”
NEWSLETTERS
TMC To Go Activities
Giant Bubble Science Activity
Giant Bubble Science No matter your age, there is something mesmerizing about bubbles. Their shape, the swirling rainbows of color, ... read more
City Build 2040 Challenge
City Build 2040 Challenge A Program Created By Beyond School Bells Nebraska The City Build is a hands-on experience for K-8 youth to ... read more
TMC To Go: Getting Electric
TMC To Go Activity: Getting Electric Nearly since the time Benjamin Franklin attached a key to a kite during a ... read more
TMC To Go: Inside My Body
TMC To Go Activity: Inside My Body What is DNA? How does my heart work? What is the purpose of blood sugar? You may not ... read more
TMC To Go: Building Great Structures
TMC To Go Activity: Building Great Structures Over thousands of years humans have created great structures. From pyramids to ... read more
TMC To Go: Harnessing Air
TMC To Go Activity: Harnessing Air From the wind sweeping across the plains to the air in our lungs, explore the power we have ... read more
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process to get a TMC Mobile Lab for my program?
If you would like to have the mobile lab visit your program, we ask that a minimum of one of your lead teachers goes through the Think, Make, Create and Learn training course. Upon completion of the course, your program will be able to submit a request to have the mobile lab visit your program.
What type of content does the training cover?
The current version of the training outlines the Dimension of Success and how to create a quality STEM learning experience and environment for your program. The course specifically addresses topics related to Pathways Category #11 – Learning Environments.
Content for the course is continually being improved and adjusted to best fit the needs of South Dakota’s frontline staff.
Why should I go through the Think, Make, Create and Learn training course?
Not only does taking the course allow you to be able to access the TMC mobile lab, but it provides you with 3 credit hours towards your annual Division of Child Care training requirements.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to informal education, there are some great concepts related to facilitating STEM that are outlined in the course. The course not only tells you about these concepts, but it shows you them in practice and gives you an opportunity to utilize some of them as well.
What is included with the trailer?
The trailer is equipped with a wide variety of materials that can be used to facilitate project based learning or open maker space learning opportunities. There are arts and craft supplies, various tools, motors, lights, LEGO bricks, and so much more.
There are also over 100 suggested lessons and activities included with the trailer. These lessons are sources from a variety of sources like the National Afterschool Association, NASA, Science Buddies, and Design Squad Nation. The 4-H Junk Drawer Robotics curriculum has also been included within the trailer.
Do I need to purchase any curriculum?
The TMC mobile labs were designed to inspire youth to be creative and innovative in an active STEM learning environment. Depending on your comfort with facilitating active STEM learning, you may choose to utilize structured lessons with the mobile; however, there is no need to purchase a curriculum. We have provided you with over 100 suggested lessons and activities that you can utilize with the mobile lab contents.
How long is the rental period?
At this time, we will allow programs to utilize the mobile lab for up to four weeks; however, if demand increases this may need to be limited.
Thank you to our generous sponsors who keep the TMC trailer rolling!
Still have questions or would like to speak further?
Contact Jeff Sebern
Director of Programs
jsebern@sdafterschoolnetwork.org
