Frequency Asked Questions
About STEM PLUG
STEM PLUG is an educational platform that blends storytelling, robotics, and social-emotional learning to help kids see how science and engineering connect to real life. Through our STEM Solvers series — starting with Robotic Adventures: A Journey Beyond Imagination — and robots like the HydraBot and we make learning fun, relatable, and confidence-building.
Our programs and products are designed primarily for students in grades 3–8, though younger or older learners can also enjoy the hands-on experience with adult guidance.
Most STEM kits teach how to build — we teach why it matters. By pairing engaging stories with robotics, kids connect emotionally with what they create, helping them develop confidence, creativity, and real-world problem-solving skills.
Books & Robots
Each works great on its own — but together, they create a complete STEM storytelling experience. The Robotic Adventures book inspires imagination, and the HydraBot brings that story to life through hands-on engineering and design.
Each HydraBot kit includes pre-cut wooden parts, hydraulic syringes and tubing, a step-by-step instruction guide, and a design challenge connected to the Robotic Adventures story.
On average, the HydraBot build takes 4–6 hours, depending on age and pace. The process can be split into multiple sessions to encourage teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving.
Yes! Our robotics kits are fully reusable, allowing students to redesign, test, and experiment multiple times.
Schools & Educators
Workshops, or host STEM Day events where students build the HydraBot and connect it to Robotic Adventures.
Yes — our curriculum aligns with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and integrates Social Emotional Learning (SEL) principles.
Absolutely. We offer in-person and virtual professional development to help teachers integrate robotics, literacy, and storytelling in the classroom.
After-School & Community Programs
We provide ready-to-run lesson plans, staff training, and reusable robotics kits like the HydraBot. Programs can also apply for STEM Plug Activation Grants to launch their own robotics challenges inspired by Robotic Adventures.
Each HydraBot kit includes pre-cut wooden parts, hydraulic syringes and tubing, a step-by-step instruction guide, and a design challenge connected to the Robotic Adventures story.
Parents & Families
Not at all! Our step-by-step guides and video tutorials make it easy for families to learn and build together — no prior STEM experience required.
The HydraBot is a 4–6 hour build, which families can enjoy across several sessions. It’s a great weekend project that sparks teamwork and discovery.
Yes! The STEM Solvers series continues beyond Robotic Adventures, featuring new robots and new stories — all designed to help kids connect imagination to innovation.
Partnerships & Corporate Engagement
We collaborate with corporate partners through STEM sponsorships, volunteer STEM days, and custom brand activations that bring robotics and literacy to local communities.
Yes. Every partnership includes a custom impact summary with data on student reach, engagement, and measurable community outcomes.
Safety & Materials
Yes — all of our robots, including the HydraBot, are designed with child safety in mind.
No special tools are needed. All parts are included, and builds are designed to be safe and hands-on, with adult supervision recommended for younger students.
Absolutely. Once built, the robots can be safely taken apart, stored, and rebuilt multiple times.
Tip: When taking your robot apart, make note of which piece is which by labeling or storing each part with its original letter marking — this makes rebuilding easier and keeps your set organized for the next use.
General & Logistics
We currently ship within the United States, with international expansion planned for 2026.
You can reach our team anytime at info@stemplug.com or through the Contact Us form on our website.
Join our STEM Plug Insider List for updates on new books, robots, and programs — plus early access to grants and events.