In response to community requests, NextMinds, which operates the Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island Invention Convention programs, has developed a fully remote program pathway in which licensed educators and facilitators will bring the Invention Convention program right to your home.
Through your preferred innovation program, your child will go from problem, to prototype, to presentation, joining youth across New England as they invent unique solutions to problems in their lives. Program sizes range from 10 students to 15 students, with options for Kindergarten through 12th grade.
These programs will take place on a fully remote basis. Students will require access to internet and a suitable computer or digital device. All programs are run by licensed educators.
This virtual intensive program is perfect for motivated inventors. The intensive format provides focused support to refine ideas and strengthen designs. Program is 5 sessions. Saturdays @ 9 AM EST- Begins February 7th (excluding February 14th).
Includes registration to the Virtual Independent Inventors Invention Convention (March 2026) and a chance to qualify for State Finals*.
A 9-week online club that meets weekly on Tuesdays at 7:30 PM EST starting on January 6th for collaboration and growth. Inventors share their projects, exchange feedback, and ask meaningful questions in a supportive community. Includes registration to the Virtual Independent Inventors Invention Convention (March 2026) and a chance to qualify for State Finals*.
Have you ever wanted to create your own app and solve real problems? In this hands-on virtual class, inventors ages 9-14 will transform their ideas into functioning apps using Thunkable — even if they’ve never coded before! Program runs for 9 weeks. Class meets Mondays at 7:00 PM EST beginning January 12th. Includes registration to the Virtual Independent Inventors Invention Convention (March 2026) and a chance to qualify for State Finals*.
Flexible, self-paced invention learning through Google Classroom. Inventors gain access to engaging materials, resources, and activities to guide them through the process at home. This program will not involve direct instruction beyond the materials and resources provided. Includes registration to the Virtual Independent Inventors Invention Convention (March 2026) and a chance to qualify for State Finals*.
For independent learners ready to showcase their work, this option provides direct registration to the Virtual Independent Inventors Invention Convention (March 2026) and a chance to qualify for state finals*.
For these five exciting days, young inventors will work to identify a real-world problem and design a creative solution to help those around them.
Each day will be filled with fun, problem solving, collaboration and creativity!
All supplies and materials will be provided for the class; however, students are asked to bring their own lunch and a water bottle each day. Following this one-week class, inventors will be invited to share their creations at the Invention Convention on Saturday, January 31
For AES 4th and 5th graders who are eager to solve problems and create meaningful solutions. This program meets on Saturdays with a mixture of virtual and in person sessions.
Sessions start in February and will run for 9 weeks.
* Note: Participants must reside in Connecticut to be eligible to qualify for the CT State Finals. Selected independent inventors from the March virtual competition will advance to the state finals event.
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