Frequently Asked Questions

Bricks Challenge and Galileo Technic — mechanical engineering.

Bricks Challenge:

• Core STEM ideas: basic principles of science, technology, engineering and math using motorised LEGO models (e.g., vehicles, lifts, amusement rides).
• Physics concepts: forces, torque, inertia, centrifugal/centripetal forces, potential and kinetic energy, fulcrum, load division, angular momentum and more.
• Simple machines & mechanisms: gears, pulleys, levers, different transmission types, speed vs power trade-offs.
• Engineering thinking: how to "think like an engineer" by building, testing, and improving working prototypes; analyzing how their model functions.
• Skills & habits: fine-motor skills, spatial awareness, planning and time management, independent learning, teamwork and communication, self-confidence.

Galileo Technic:

• Advanced STEM: broader and deeper knowledge in science, technology, mechanical engineering and math, building on Bricks Challenge foundations.
• Complex mechanisms: multi-channel transmissions, advanced gearboxes and gear shifting, different motion types (circular, linear, oscillatory), rotational axes, center of gravity, fulcrum, ratchets, belt drives.
• Motion & forces: kinematics, gyroscopic effects, asymmetry, angular momentum, and how these affect real machines (steering, stability, automation).
• Engineering analysis: using math and physics to find efficient solutions, optimizing designs, and viewing problems from a "professional engineering" perspective.
• Team-based projects: working in groups to design and build more complex models, strengthening communication, collaboration, and systematic problem-solving.
• Extra topics: basic statistics ideas (probability, percentages, fair games) in some versions of the program, plus concepts like differentials, steering systems, semi-automatic launching mechanisms.

Bricks Challenge — about 6–10, beginner. Galileo Technic — about 7–12, intermediate/advanced.

75 minutes.

Each program meets once a week.

Both Bricks Challenge and Galileo Technic are full-year programs with 36 lessons — kids build a brand new model every single class.

We keep our classes small so every child gets personal attention from the instructor. Limited by 15.

We've got everything covered! All building kits and equipment are provided — just bring your child and their enthusiasm.

Not at all! Our programs are designed for kids of all experience levels — total beginners are absolutely welcome.

No, it is a project-based methodology, and projects are completed during the class.

Yes. Young Engineers designs Bricks Challenge and Galileo Technic to support and extend school STEM learning.

Yes. Young Engineers is structured as a progression, so there are more advanced levels your child can move into as they grow.

Typical pathway after Bricks Challenge:

• Galileo Technic: More complex mechanical engineering, for roughly ages 9–12, with multi-mechanism builds and deeper physics and math reasoning.
• Coding/robotics with bricks: Programs that add coding logic and basic robotics to the same style of construction, introducing algorithmic thinking and programmable models.

After Galileo Technic:

• Robotics with LEGO EV3 or similar: More formal coding concepts (loops, conditions, variables), sensor use, and solving challenge missions.
• Higher-level coding/engineering clubs or competition prep: Applying the same skills to more open-ended engineering and robotics challenges.

3016 Sardis Dr, Indian Trail, NC 28079 — Inside SportPlus Academy

TBD

Yes, free parking is available.

Yes, classes are held indoors.

Our classes are in person — we believe hands-on building is what makes the magic happen!

Cancellation policy: cancelled when local schools are closed due to the weather. School holidays: usually classes are open and camps may be offered.

Both programs are built as full-year courses — 36 lessons per program, one new model every class. Classes follow a steady permanent schedule, and we're open during most school holidays. Classes are only cancelled when local schools close due to weather.

Trial classes are free.

$100 per month, no per class option.

Yes, 20%.

No.

Credit Cards, Online, Zelle.

Just fill out the trial form on our site! Someone from our team will reach out to confirm the details and get your child scheduled.

We typically respond within one business day.

Sign up and pay for the class online.

We will notify you when next trial class will be offered and you will have a priority for registration.

About a month.

It is free.

No, you pay monthly.

We don't have another location at this point.

Yes.

We provide make-up sessions for missed classes. If you choose to leave the program, no refund is issued for the current month — but since we bill monthly with no long-term commitment, you simply don't renew the following month.

We'll try to accommodate, but if we can't please wait till next registration cycle - usually a month.

Just reach out through our contact form or give us a call and we'll get you on the list!

Yes, each class is a project from start to finish. It's better to start at the beginning of the semester, but not necessary.

We have certified instructors and all instructors undergo background checks.

We keep class sizes small so your child always gets real attention — not just a number in a crowd. Exact ratio — 1:10.

Yes! All our instructors are screened through NCSI, all instructors are SafeSport certified with comprehensive training specifically for adults working with kids.

Absolutely — all instructors are SafeSport certified with comprehensive training specifically for adults working with kids.

Yes.

We have first aid supplies on hand at every single session. We follow SafeSport protocols for reporting and injury handling and prevention.

You call business number - 9803748686.

Initial response: Instructors redirect the child, remind them of expectations, and may give a warning; some locations will also speak with the parent/guardian if behavior continues.

Ongoing disruption: If a child is consistently disruptive, prevents the instructor from running the class, or makes the environment unsafe, the site reserves the right to remove the child from the program, often without refund.

Serious incidents: Behaviors like hitting, kicking, spitting, or actions seen as harmful to others or staff can lead to immediate dismissal from the program under the code of conduct.

Parents are provided with written code of conduct and they have to sign it.

Our classrooms are nut-free and allergen-aware, and food is not part of our class activities — so no worries there!

Yes.

Yes! All equipment and building kits are thoroughly sanitized between every session.

We take this seriously. Kids are only released to authorized adults, and we have clear check-in and check-out procedures at every class.

Yes, every session has first aid supplies on hand.

Yes — nut-free and allergen-aware environment at all locations.

Yes, with parent signed media consent and release form.

Yes. Any information you share with us is used only for enrollment and communication — we don't sell or share your data.

Yes, with your consent only.

No.

Yes! We love working with schools and organizations. Fill out our org inquiry form and we'll be in touch.

Absolutely — reach out through our org inquiry form and let's talk about what works for your group.

$200 per class, all materials and instructor provided.

Yes.

Yes.

Yes.

Unique teaching approach:

• Edutainment method: Lessons are deliberately designed to feel like play while systematically teaching real engineering and physics concepts using motorized LEGO models.
• Spiral learning: Core ideas (gears, forces, energy, motion) reappear at increasing levels of complexity as children move from Bricks Challenge up to Galileo and beyond, so knowledge actually builds instead of being random projects.
• Project-based focus: Every class ends with a working model or small project, and instructors use problem-, product-, and project-based learning to push kids to improve or extend their builds, not just copy instructions.

Depth of engineering, not just "STEM crafts":

• Real mechanical engineering: Children work with transmissions, gear ratios, levers, pulleys, energy transfer and stability, which is closer to first-year engineering concepts than typical "STEM craft" classes.
• Serious content in kid language: Programs have been recognized by organizations like the Harvard Graduate School of Education and the EU Commission for the way they translate advanced ideas into accessible activities.
• Strong math and science tie-in: Models are used to anchor ideas like speed vs power, forces, center of gravity, probability, and basic data reasoning, supporting what students see later in school.

Structured progression and global track record:

• Clear pathway: Multiple age-based levels (from preschool builders up through Galileo and robotics) give your child room to grow over several years instead of aging out after one course.
• Consistent curriculum: As a global network active in 50+ countries, the program uses a standardized curriculum and training rather than ad-hoc lesson plans that can vary wildly by instructor.
• Focus on thinking skills: Centers emphasize critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork and communication as explicit outcomes, not just "having fun with LEGO."

Both programs are built as full-year courses — 36 lessons per program, one new model every class. Classes follow a steady permanent schedule, and we're open during most school holidays. Classes are only cancelled when local schools close due to weather.

You can email us at [email protected] anytime. Phone number: (980) 374-8686.

(980) 374-8686

Yes! We're a proud Young Engineers franchise serving the Charlotte area.

Yes, feel free to contact us. We don't provide report cards similar to school, so if you want to hear from us — call us at (980) 374-8686 or email us at [email protected] anytime.

Yes, we have a graduation party by the end of the program.

It depends on the needs. Since we offer group classes, kids should be comfortable interacting with the group. We may schedule private classes for special needs kids at your location or ours.

We welcome kids ages 5–12. Most kids start at 5 or 6.

No, we can't offer that, however, for 4 years old we can have an exception and even ask you for help!

Yes — we have a safe check-in and check-out process at every class to make sure your child is always in good hands.

Yes, 20%.

Classes are taught in English, and we may offer more languages in the future.

No, the schedule is steady and permanent so there are no distractive reminders. You will get notified if class is cancelled due to the weather or any other reason (which practically never happens).

No, but you are welcome to ask any questions.

Just a comfortable outfit. No specific requirements, no uniforms.