Awesome Brain Games for Kids: STEAM Puzzles and Facts for Curious Minds

I've been dreaming about writing a book for as long as I can remember.
When the opportunity to write a book presented itself to me last spring, I was thrilled, nervous, and so ready to cannonball in (as Tara Martin would say!). While writing, I envisioned my own children and my students reading through the book, and playing the games inside. In the back of my head, I was constantly thinking, "What type of game makes this exciting and challenging? Who are amazing STEAM leaders and role models that readers should know about? What topics will interest readers? What can they learn from this book?" It was so exhilarating to be writing a book that I know so many readers will learn from.
Fall and Winter 2019 has been a wild ride. My school year started with the implementation of a grant that I received from MassCUE, to use Nintendo Switch Labos, in the STEAM Lab (my classroom). If you are curious to learn more, please check out the post here. Then, in the midst of the grant implementation, October brought Massachusetts STEM Week and my first ever Family STEAM Night. I invited businesses from all over the local communities to set up booths and activities for students and families to participate in together.  From sewing to chemical experiments to construction work and athletics, the night had it all. With over 400 people in attendance, I was thrilled to be able to help families and students learn about STEAM careers, and to "see themselves in STEAM." After Family STEAM Night came presenting at MassCUE's Annual Technology Conference and learning from incredible educators. Winter has brought new curriculum, after-school clubs, and the challenges and adventures of year two of the STEAM Lab. 
I am so excited that my book Awesome Brain Games for Kids is coming out February 11, 2020. On today, the first day of 2020, a new year and new decade, I am so ready for the future. I cannot wait for readers to pick up a copy of Awesome Brain Games for Kids. I'm looking forward to sharing about the writing process and my favorite parts in the book. Thank you for being along with me every step of the way! Be on the lookout for a STEAM Up the Classroom podcast episode about it too!
Happy New Year!

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