Stem for Every Mind with Kenneth Mims
In this episode of All Abilities, No Filter, we’re joined by Kenneth Mims to discuss the powerful impact of STEM and hands-on learning for children on the autism spectrum and students with other disabilities. We explore how individualized, experiential instruction can increase engagement, build executive functioning skills, and promote independence. This conversation highlights why designing learning around how students think and process can unlock meaningful growth for every mind.
What happens when hands-on learning meets individualized education? Real engagement. Real growth. Real outcomes.
In this episode of All Abilities, No Filter, we sit down with special guest Kenneth Mims to explore the powerful impact STEM education and hands-on learning can have for children on the autism spectrum and students with other disabilities.
We break down why traditional worksheet-based instruction often falls short — and how robotics, engineering challenges, problem-solving activities, and experiential learning can unlock attention, motivation, communication, and independence.
You’ll hear practical strategies, real-world examples, and honest insight into:
Why STEM increases engagement for neurodiverse learners
How hands-on learning builds executive functioning skills
The connection between movement, regulation, and cognition
Ways educators and parents can bring STEM into everyday learning
How individualized instruction transforms outcomes
Whether you're a parent, educator, therapist, or administrator, this episode will challenge the way you think about learning — and give you tools you can use immediately.
Because when we design education for how students learn best, not just how curriculum is written, every mind has the opportunity to thrive.
Mims
Kenneth Mims is the author of A Mother’s Guide to Autism and a nationally recognized expert in inclusive education for autistic and neurodivergent students. He shares his passion and expertise through advocacy, teaching, and leadership.
He recently delivered a TEDx talk exploring neurodiversity, inclusion, and transformative educational practices. Mims is a sought-after speaker for conferences, schools, and organizations seeking impactful conversations around inclusive education and neurodiversity advocacy.
As founder of the Neurodiversity Education Research Center (NERC), Mims has advanced inclusive education and founded Science Prep Academy, an award-winning private STEM college and career prep school recognized nationally for innovation and classroom diversity.
He believes education is a critical global issue and emphasizes that preparing neurodivergent youth for success is essential for both social progress and economic development. His international work focuses on developing STEM education solutions and advocating for greater inclusion in schools and the workforce.
In 2019, Mims was honored as an Albert Einstein Legislative Fellow, contributing to educational policy discussions in Washington, D.C. He holds a B.S. in Physics from Hampton University and a Master’s in Science Education from Georgia State University.
With over twenty-five years of experience in his field, his insight spans neurodiversity, autism, education reform, workforce development, and mental health. Drawing on personal and professional experiences and research, he delivers practi…Read More