Build. Play. Learn.
Hands-on STEM and makerspace programs for youth in East Palo Alto / Menlo Park that make robotics, coding, and 3D printing accessible to everyone.
Grades 3-12
Project-Based
Hybrid Learning
Our Vision & Mission
Our Vision
At Build Play Learn Labs, our vision is to pioneer a future where every child can unlock their full potential. We are committed to making this a reality by increasing the accessibility of STEM programs, ensuring all students have the opportunity to explore, create, and lead. Our goal is to empower a new generation of confident innovators who are ready to contribute meaningfully to a rapidly changing world.
Our Mission
We empower youth by engaging them in STEM projects that teach them to code, build, and create. Our focus is on making STEM education both accessible and enjoyable, while nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in young learners. Through hands-on experiences and the use of modern technology, Build Play Learn Labs strives to inspire the next generation of innovators and leaders.
Our Learning Tracks
Coding & Game Design
Learn programming through Scratch, MakeCode, Python, and create your own games and interactive projects.
3D Printing & Makerspace
Design and prototype with Tinkercad, 3D printers, and maker tools at our Belle Haven makerspace.
Robotics
Build and program robots with LEGO SPIKE, VEX GO, VEX IQ, and VEX V5. Join Wakandabots for competitions!
Join WakandabotsCommunity Workshops
Attend pop-up events, showcases, and hybrid workshops that bring STEM to the community.
Empowering Future Innovators through Robotics Kits
Your contribution helps us buy individual robotics kits so students can keep building at home. Every donation makes STEM education accessible to more youth in our community.
Basic robotics kit for one student
Advanced robotics kit
Sponsor a lab station
Every contribution helps!
What Our Community Says
Hear from students, parents, and volunteers in East Palo Alto and Menlo Park.
Community Partners & Donors
Thank you to our partners and donors who help make STEM accessible to youth in East Palo Alto and Menlo Park!
About Build Play Learn Labs
Who We Are
Build Play Learn Labs is an innovative educational organization in East Palo Alto that makes STEM accessible and fun for young learners. We provide hands-on STEM experiences including robotics, coding, 3D printing, and hybrid learning opportunities for youth in grades 3-12.
Our makerspace at the Belle Haven Community Center serves as a safe, culturally responsive environment where local youth can explore STEM subjects and develop leadership skills.
Our Story
Build Play Learn Labs (BPL Labs) was created with the belief that learning becomes more meaningful when students can build, explore, and discover for themselves. The “Build” in our name focuses on hands-on creation where students design, construct, and solve problems using engineering, coding, and design skills. “Play” highlights exploration and experimentation, giving students the freedom to try new ideas, make mistakes, and develop creativity and confidence.
The “Learn” component ties everything together by connecting each activity to real-world concepts and practical knowledge. Through interactive and project-based learning, students gain a clear understanding of how things work and why they matter. By bringing together building, playing, and learning, BPL Labs creates a holistic STEM experience that inspires curiosity, encourages innovation, and empowers students to grow as creators and problem-solvers.
Our Core Values
- Accessibility & Equity: We're committed to increasing the accessibility of STEM programs for all students, especially those from underrepresented communities.
- Creativity & Play: Learning should be fun! We embrace the "Build • Play • Learn" philosophy where students learn by doing and creating.
- Community Partnership: We work closely with families, schools, and community organizations to create meaningful impact.
- Future-Ready Skills: We equip students with coding, engineering, and problem-solving skills they need for the 21st century.
Belle Haven Community Center Makerspace
Our hands-on programs take place at our makerspace in the Belle Haven Community Center, providing a welcoming environment for youth to explore, create, and innovate.
Located in Menlo Park, serving East Palo Alto and surrounding communities
Our Programs
Coding & Digital Making
Learn programming with Code.org, Scratch, TurboWarp, MakeCode, and Python. Build games, code devices, and mod Minecraft!
Robotics & Engineering
Design, build, and program robots with LEGO SPIKE, VEX GO, VEX IQ, and VEX V5. Join Wakandabots for competitions!
3D Printing & Prototyping
Use Tinkercad to design 3D models, create circuits, and bring your ideas to life with our 3D printers and maker tools.
Makers & Sustainability
Create projects that make a difference in your community while learning about sustainability and environmental design.
Program Details by Age Group
Beginner (Grades 3-5)
- Block-based coding with Scratch and Code.org
- LEGO SPIKE Essential and VEX GO robotics
- Simple 3D prints with Tinkercad
- Hour of Code activities
- Introduction to game design
Intermediate (Grades 6-8)
- VEX IQ robotics and competition prep
- MakeCode programming for games and devices
- 3D design and circuit simulation
- Python programming basics
- Design thinking projects
Advanced (Grades 9-12)
- VEX V5 robotics and advanced competitions
- Drone programming and autonomous flight
- Advanced coding with Python, Java, and more
- Leadership opportunities mentoring younger students
- Internship pathways in STEM education
Ready to Join?
Whether you're a beginner or ready for competition, we have the perfect program for you!
Wakandabots
BPL's robotics club for grades 3–12 that teaches students to build, code, and compete using LEGO, VEX, and drones.
What is Wakandabots?
Wakandabots is Build Play Learn Labs' competitive robotics program where students learn teamwork, leadership, and engineering through hands-on robotics challenges and competitions.
Our hybrid learning model combines online preparation with in-person building sessions, making it accessible to all students while providing the structure needed for competition success.
Program Pathways
Elementary (Grades 3-5)
LEGO SPIKE + VEX GO
"Learn the basics, build with friends." Students explore robotics fundamentals through fun, collaborative challenges.
Middle School (Grades 6-8)
VEX IQ
"Hands-on, competition prep." Students build more complex robots and prepare for local and regional competitions.
High School (Grades 9-12)
VEX V5 + Drones
"Advanced engineering, mentor younger students, compete." Students tackle advanced challenges and develop leadership skills.
What Students Gain
Technical Skills:
- Coding and programming
- Engineering and design
- Sensor integration
- Driver skills for competition
Soft Skills:
- Leadership and teamwork
- Collaboration and communication
- Presentation skills
- Problem-solving under pressure
Schedule & Location
Format: Hybrid learning with weekend sessions and bi-weekly in-person meetups
Location: Belle Haven Community Center, Menlo Park / East Palo Alto
Sessions: Weekend workshops plus online collaboration between meetings
Competitions: Local, regional, and state-level VEX and LEGO League tournaments
Student Projects
Check out the amazing projects our students have created!
Want to showcase your project?
From robots to games to 3D-printed inventions, we love seeing what our students create!
Information for Parents
Why Choose Build Play Learn Labs?
We provide a safe, culturally responsive STEM learning environment for youth in East Palo Alto and Menlo Park. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we're committed to making quality STEM education accessible to all families.
Safe, Local Makerspace
Our Belle Haven Community Center location provides a welcoming, supervised environment for youth to explore STEM.
Culturally Responsive
We create programs that respect and celebrate the diversity of our East Palo Alto and Menlo Park communities.
Experienced Instructors
Real STEM professionals and trained volunteers dedicated to your child's success.
Experienced Instructors
Real STEM professionals and trained volunteers dedicated to your child's success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What ages do you serve?
A: We serve students in grades 3-12, with age-appropriate programming for elementary, middle, and high school students.
Q: Where are classes held?
A: Classes are held at the Belle Haven Community Center in Menlo Park. Our headquarters is in East Palo Alto, and we serve both communities.
Q: How do I contact someone?
A: Email us at buildplaylearnlabs@gmail.com or call (650) 455-7053.
Q: What's the cost?
A: Many programs are grant or donation-supported. Contact us to discuss options and financial assistance.
Q: Do you offer hybrid learning?
A: Yes! We combine online learning tools with in-person hands-on sessions for maximum flexibility and accessibility.
How to Enroll Your Child
1. Review Programs
Explore our programs and find the best fit for your child's age and interests.
2. Complete Survey
Fill out our parent survey and interest form to let us know your preferences.
3. Get Details
We'll provide class times, location information, and next steps.
4. Confirm Login
Set up your student's login for Google Classroom and online tools.
Parent Resources
We provide resources to help you support your child's STEM learning journey at home.
Volunteer & Internship Opportunities
Ready to Join the Team?
Support local youth in robotics, coding, and 3D printing! Build Play Learn Labs trains volunteers and provides meaningful opportunities to make a difference in East Palo Alto and Menlo Park.
Robotics Coach / Assistant
Help students with LEGO SPIKE, VEX GO, and VEX IQ. Support Wakandabots competition teams.
Coding & Game Design Helper
Assist students with Scratch, MakeCode, Python, and other programming projects.
3D Printing / Makerspace Mentor
Guide students in Tinkercad, 3D printing, and hands-on maker activities.
Events & Community Support
Help with competitions, showcases, and community events.
Volunteer Requirements
- Interest in STEM education and youth development
- Background check required when working with minors
- Availability for weekend or bi-weekly meetups in Menlo Park / East Palo Alto
- We provide training for all volunteers!
Internship Opportunities
Our "Life as an Intern" program gives students hands-on experience designing and programming robotics projects while seeing the impact of their work on younger students' growth.
What You'll Do:
- Help design robotics projects and curriculum
- Mentor younger students in coding and building
- Assist with program development and events
- Gain real experience in STEM education
What You'll Gain:
- Hands-on teaching experience
- Letters of recommendation
- Community service hours
- Skills for college and career
Impact
Your time helps us run more classes and maintain individual robotics kits for students to keep learning at home.
"I got hands-on experience mentoring students in VEX IQ. Great for college and service hours!" - Volunteer
Meet Our Team
Build Play Learn Labs is powered by dedicated educators, engineers, and community leaders committed to making STEM accessible to all.
Leadership Team
Founder & Director
Jon is the founder of Build Play Learn Labs, with over a decade of experience in teaching STEM, leading makerspaces, and building youth-centered learning programs. He is passionate about providing hands-on, culturally relevant opportunities for students in robotics, coding, and design. His work focuses on empowering youth as leaders in technology while growing community access to STEM education.
Volunteers
Robotics Lead
Leads robotics instruction for VEX, LEGO, and competition preparation.
Coding Instructor
Teaches coding, game design, and digital making with Scratch, Python, and MakeCode.
3D Printing Instructor
Guides students in Tinkercad, 3D printing, and prototyping their inventions.
Youth Leadership Coach
Develops student leaders and coordinates our mentorship and internship programs.
Board of Directors
Community members and education professionals supporting equity in STEM education in East Palo Alto and surrounding areas.
Support Our Mission
Help us empower the next generation of innovators through STEM education
Every Donation Makes a Difference
Your contribution helps us provide robotics kits, makerspace equipment, and FREE STEM programs to youth in East Palo Alto and Menlo Park.
Donate NowWays to Give
$50
Supporter
Provides basic supplies for one student workshop
- Workshop materials
- Basic tools
- Student resources
$150
Innovator
Provides a basic robotics kit for one student
- LEGO SPIKE or VEX kit
- Programming tools
- Take-home materials
$500
Champion
Provides advanced robotics equipment and tools
- Competition-ready kits
- 3D printer materials
- Advanced electronics
$1,000+
Transformative
Sponsors a complete makerspace station or team
- Full team sponsorship
- Makerspace equipment
- Recognition opportunity
Choose Your Own Amount
Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us reach more students!
Donate Custom AmountWhere Your Money Goes
🎁 Robotics Kits & Equipment
We purchase individual robotics kits that students can keep and continue learning at home. Your donation provides:
- LEGO SPIKE Essential & Prime kits
- VEX GO, IQ, and V5 robotics systems
- 3D printers and filament
- Electronics and maker supplies
🏫 Program Operations
Your support helps us maintain and expand our programs:
- Belle Haven Community Center makerspace
- Instructor training and support
- Curriculum development
- Competition fees and travel
- Student scholarships
Other Ways to Support Us
Corporate Sponsorship
Partner with us to provide STEM education to underserved communities. Contact us about corporate matching and sponsorship opportunities.
Learn MoreIn-Kind Donations
Donate robotics equipment, computers, 3D printers, or maker supplies directly to our programs.
Contact UsVolunteer Time
Your time is valuable! Volunteer as an instructor, mentor, or event helper to support our students.
Volunteer InfoWorkplace Giving
Ask your employer about matching gifts or workplace giving programs to double your impact!
Get StartedTax-Deductible Donation
Build Play Learn Labs is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
EIN: [Your EIN Number]
Questions About Donating?
We're here to help! Contact us to discuss how your contribution can make the biggest impact.
Contact UsGet In Touch
Contact Information
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (650) 455-7053
Service Area: East Palo Alto, CA | Menlo Park, CA
Visit Us
In-person robotics and makerspace sessions happen at the Belle Haven Community Center in Menlo Park and in East Palo Alto.
Contact us for the current schedule and location details.