TECHPLAYZONE  F.A.Q

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why should parents pay for computer classes, when students have computers at home and at school?

TechPlayzone is more than simply computer classes.  Many young people today are consumers of technology.  TechPlayzone encourages them to become "creators" using technology.  Students will design interactive computer games, web pages, robotic programs, and more.  Students as young as 10 years old will design and program robots using the LEGO Mindstorms Robotics system.  Students who enjoy music will have the opportunity to digitally compose music, mix various instrumental sounds together, and burn their original creations on a CD.  Students can design web pages  based on their interests and hobbies. Many students are using Snap Circuits to experiment with electronics.  Yet, few understand how the actual circuits work.  TechPlayzone provides answers for tech savvy kids.   The KidsInvent curriculum has excellent science kits where students see their creations come alive.  The FutureKids curriculum provides theme-based projects for students to learn Microsoft Office applications in a fun and creative way.   As complex as these workshops may sound, young people all over the country are learning these skills now, while viewing it as fun, and gaining a leading edge as they enter middle and high school.  (Some adults may even be a little envious.)

2.  What ages are appropriate for TechPlayzone activities?

Young people entering Kindergarten thru 7th grade would enjoy TechPlayzone activities.  For those students who enjoy math, science, and technology then TechPlayzone Rocks!  For those young people who aren't as interested in math or science, then TechPlayzone renews their enthusiasm.

3.  How do students benefit as they create computer games, animated stories, and digital movies?

At TechPlayzone, young people build higher-order thinking skills and increase their  problem solving abilities.  As students complete "hands-on" projects, their levels of confidence increase, giving them encouragement to excel in other areas.  Studies show that students become more engaged in the learning process as they "play."  A 1998 Educational Testing Service research report, "Does It Compute? The Relationship Between Educational Technology and Student Achievement in Mathematics," summarized in Education Week, found that students who used simulation software scored higher on standardized mathematics tests.  At TechPlayzone, workshops have FCAT components built into the curriculum.  Finally, students gain an introduction to basic computer programming  and engineering concepts, making it less intimidating for them to perceive of pursuing careers in computer science and engineering.

4.  Does TechPlayzone screen their staff and volunteers? 

Yes, each staff member and volunteer must agree to a background check.  Only individuals who have positive background screenings will be allowed to work with children at TechPlayzone.  As well, staff members are trained in CPR.  The success of TechPlayzone relies on quality facilitators and office staff.  

5. Why would students want to register for the same workshops and camps repeatedly?

TechPlayzone themes may be the same.  However, the hands-on projects vary.  The curriculum is project-based.  Thus, each workshop will allow students to continue learning skills while working on a different project.  Students will want to come back to the TechPlayzone again and again.  The strategies that TechPlayzone will use to consistently keep students wanting to register for workshops are as follows:

a.   TechPlayzone will allow young people to use the latest technology such as Serious Magic software, Microsoft Office 2003, digital camcorders, USB Flash Memory Drives, LEGO RCX/NXT Bricks, Pentium IV Desktops, high-end Laptops, and more.

b.   TechPlayzone will have age appropriate activities that are fun, not frustrating, with  staff persons there to help students.

c.   TechPlayzone will use project-based curriculum that is easy to follow, understand, and implement.

d.   TechPlayzone will use methods to track students' progress so that parents will see increased independence, creativity, problem solving skills, and confidence.

e.   TechPlayzone will have hands-on technology workshops that give students immediate results.

f.    Students will collaborate with one another and be able to see what projects their peers have completed.  They will then want to work on those projects next time.

g.   Volunteers will help students as mentors and encourage students in the areas that most interest them.

6. How does TechPlayzone operate?

TechPlayzone offers an after school enrichment program with transportation provided from local schools.  The after school enrichment program includes snack, homework help, technology workshops, and character development workshops.

TechPlayzone also offers afterschool workshops.  Two of the workshops have a maximum of 10 students.  The other two workshops have a maximum of 8 students.  TechPlayzone afterschool workshops are Monday - Friday between the hours of 4:30pm and 6:30pm.  On Saturdays, TechPlayzone offers workshops between the hours of 9:00am and 12:00noon.  Students can choose to attend a workshop a minimum of once a week or as much as five days per week.   Parents pay for a month's worth of workshops at a time. The process is similar to that of registering for gymnastics, dance, tae kwon do,  or music lessons.  Our online registration system will be available soon.

TechPlayzone has classes for homeschoolers, preschoolers, and adults who would like to use the facility. Prices vary.  Contact TechPlayzone to discuss your groups' options.

Groups such as Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts can schedule visits for merit badges, pins, and loops.

TechPlayzone offers camps during winter, spring, and summer breaks.  TechPlayzone camps are appropriate for young people in Kindergarten thru 7th grade.

Finally, TechPlayzone will offer a Mommy and Me class for all of the TechieTots in the community.  The TechPlay Academy program is currently under development.

7.  Is TechPlayzone a franchise?  Are you considering franchising TechPlayzone?

TechPlayzone is not a franchise.  We are a single facility located in Riverview, FL.  Many families have brought their children to TechPlayzone from as far away as Tampa, Wesley Chapel, Plant City, and Deland.  TechPlayzone is researching the idea of franchising our unique after school program and selling our curriculum to other after school programs.  If you are interested in being a part of  TechPlayzone's growth, please send an email to info@techplayzone.com.

8.  Do you host birthday parties at TechPlayzone?

Yes, we do.  Birthday party information is now located on the website.  You can call the office to arrange a party for your child.  TechPlayzone birthday parties are best for students ages 5 or above.

9.  Who can I contact with questions or concerns?

Please contact Desh Bagley via email with any questions or concerns you may have or call TechPlayzone at (813) 453-8612.