FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Brain Eating Machines robotics programs and STEM camps.

Quick answers to common questions about our programs. For detailed policies, see our Policies & Terms page. For summer camp details, see our Summer Camp Parent Guide.

General Questions

What skills do students learn in your robotics programs?

We provide comprehensive robotics training that prepares students for various competitive opportunities. Our curriculum covers robot design, building, programming with LEGO® SPIKE Prime, teamwork, innovation projects, and presentation skills. Students develop problem-solving abilities, technical expertise, and collaboration skills that are valuable for competitive robotics and STEM education at all levels.

Learn more: Visit our individual program pages for detailed curriculum information.

What age groups do you serve?

Our main programs are designed for students in 4th through 8th grade (approximately ages 9-14):

  • After-School Programs: Grades 4-8
  • Summer Camps: Grades 4-8
  • Competitive Robotics Training: Grades 4-8

Do students need prior robotics experience?

No prior experience is necessary! We welcome beginners and experienced students alike. Our instructors provide teaching on robotics, programming, and teamwork from the ground up. Enthusiasm and willingness to learn are the only requirements.

Where are programs held?

  • After-School Programs: Held at participating schools in Glen Rock, NJ and surrounding areas. Check your local school after-school program calendar.
  • Summer Camps: Held at school facilities in Glen Rock, NJ
  • Competitive Robotics: Practice locations are confirmed upon team formation

Weather permitting, some outdoor activities may be included.

Registration & Getting Started

How do I register?

Visit our Schedule page to see all upcoming programs and register online. If registration isn’t open yet for a program you’re interested in, contact us to be notified when registration opens.

Are there sibling discounts?

Yes! Some programs offer sibling discounts. After you register your children, please contact us at contact@braineatingmachines.com so we can help you apply the discount.

Learn more: See our Discounts & Promotions policy.

I missed registration! What now?

Don’t worry! Contact us to be added to our waiting list or to be notified about future sessions. We occasionally run additional programs or have openings become available.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellation policies vary by program type and timing. Quick reference:

  • After-School: 2+ weeks before = full refund minus $50 fee
  • Summer Camps: 6+ weeks before = full refund minus $50 fee
  • After program starts: No refunds

For complete details: See our Cancellation & Refund Policy.

For Community School programs: Follow the respective community school’s cancellation policy.

Program Requirements

What equipment do students need to bring?

For most programs:

  • Water bottle (labeled with student’s name)
  • Snacks (nut-free)
  • Laptop (only if specified in program details)

For programs requiring laptops:

  • Mac, Windows, or Chromebook with USB port
  • WiFi capability
  • Google Chrome browser installed
  • NOT acceptable: Tablets or iPads

Learn more: See our Program Materials & Equipment policy.

Can students use tablets or iPads instead of laptops?

No, tablets and iPads are not suitable for our programming activities. Students MUST bring a laptop (Mac, Windows, or Chromebook) with a keyboard, mouse/trackpad, and active USB ports. Programming software requires a full computer environment.

What about parental controls on laptops?

If you have parental controls enabled that require website approval, please contact us before your program starts. We’ll provide a list of websites needed for programming tools and learning platforms so you can approve them in advance.

What should students wear?

  • Comfortable clothing suitable for active learning
  • Closed-toe shoes required (no flip-flops, Crocs, or sliders)
  • Label jackets and personal items with child’s name

For summer camps: See our Summer Camp Parent Guide for complete packing list.

Program-Specific Questions

After-School Programs

Can students make up missed sessions?

Yes, for after-school programs only. Students may schedule one make-up session per month with 24-hour advance notice, subject to availability in other sections.

Learn more: See our Make-Up Sessions policy.

Summer Camps

What should students bring to summer camp?

Required items:

  • Water bottle
  • Nut-free snacks
  • Packed lunch (for full-day camps)
  • Laptop (if specified)
  • Any required medications

Complete packing list: See our Summer Camp Parent Guide.

Are make-up days available if my child misses camp?

No, make-up sessions are not available for summer camps. See our Attendance policy for details.

What are the health requirements?

Summer camps require completed health forms submitted one week before camp starts. See our Summer Camp Health Requirements.

Competitive Robotics

What does the competitive robotics season look like?

The competitive robotics season typically runs from September through March. Teams meet weekly for 2-3 hours to work on:

  • Robot design and building
  • Programming and testing
  • Innovation project research
  • Core values and teamwork
  • Competition preparation

What is the time commitment?

Competitive robotics requires a significant commitment:

  • Weekly team meetings (2-3 hours)
  • Additional practice time during competition season
  • Competition days (usually Saturdays or Sundays)
  • Optional homework and independent research

How do competitions work?

Robotics competitions (tournaments) are held regionally and at the state level. Teams present their innovation projects, demonstrate their robots in timed matches, and interview with judges about their robot design and core values. Teams are evaluated on robot performance, innovation projects, robot design, and teamwork.

Learn more: Visit our Competitive Robotics page for complete details.

Policies & Safety

What is your behavior policy?

We maintain a positive, respectful learning environment. Students are expected to treat others with respect, follow safety rules, and work collaboratively. After two warnings for disruptive behavior, continued issues may result in discontinuation from the program without refund.

Complete policy: See our Code of Conduct.

What happens if my child gets sick during camp?**

We will isolate your child from other students and contact you immediately. You must arrange pickup within one hour. Students may return when they meet specific recovery criteria.

Complete illness policy: See our Summer Camp Illness Policy.

Do you have food allergy accommodations?

Yes, we maintain a nut-aware environment and require allergy action plans for students with severe food allergies.

Learn more:

Still Have Questions?

We’re here to help! Reach out with any questions about our programs, registration, or policies.