Meet The Founder Of AIM STEAM Products
Purpose-Driven Children’s Books & STEAM Learning Tools
I’m Stephen Perkins, founder of AIM STEAM Products and creator of the Proverbs From The Hood™ children’s book series. I design educational children’s books and STEAM toys that help kids build emotional intelligence, creativity, and critical thinking skills—at home and in the classroom.
This brand was built from lived experience, fatherhood, and a belief that learning should reflect real communities while nurturing curiosity and growth.
My Journey as a Founder & Children’s Author
I didn’t set out to become a children’s book author or educational toy creator.
Growing up on the South Side of Chicago, I faced real challenges that shaped my perspective on resilience, accountability, and growth. Those early lessons—along with hard-earned life experiences—became the foundation for how I approach education today.
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After rebuilding my life, I spent over a decade working as a technology project manager, leading complex initiatives for large organizations. While professionally successful, I felt a growing disconnect from purpose.
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That changed with fatherhood.
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Becoming a parent revealed a major gap in children’s education—a lack of inclusive, meaningful learning tools that combine social-emotional learning with hands-on STEAM exploration. Nightly story time and play became the catalyst for creating something better.
Why AIM STEAM Products Exists
AIM STEAM Products exists to solve a simple problem:
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Too many children’s learning products focus on skills without supporting the whole child.​
Supporting the Whole Child Through STEAM & SEL
I created AIM STEAM to offer:
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Children’s books that encourage empathy, reflection, and discussion
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STEAM toys that promote hands-on learning and problem-solving
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Stories and characters that reflect diverse backgrounds and real experiences
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Screen-free educational tools designed for parents, educators, and caregivers
Every product is designed to help children pause, think critically, and grow with confidence.
What We Create
At AIM STEAM Products, we create purpose-driven children’s books, hands-on STEAM learning toys, and discussion-based educational resources designed to support both academic and emotional development. Each product blends storytelling, creativity, and real-world problem solving to help children build confidence, critical thinking skills, and empathy at home or in the classroom.
Proverbs From The Hood™ Children’s Book Series
Est. March 2025
Our hands-on STEAM learning toys encourage children to explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math through play-based, screen-free experiences. Designed to spark curiosity and collaboration, these educational tools help kids develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and perseverance while learning by doing.
Hands-On STEAM Learning Tools & Educational Toys
Est. January 2023
Our discussion guides and companion activities help parents, educators, and caregivers turn stories into meaningful conversations. These resources support social-emotional learning (SEL) by prompting reflection, communication, and critical thinking—making each book or activity a tool for deeper understanding and connection.
Companion Guides for Parents & Educators
Our resources are ideal for:
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Parents seeking meaningful learning experiences
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Educators and schools focused on SEL and STEAM
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Libraries, nonprofits, and community organizations
Our Mission & Impact
At our core, AIM STEAM Products is committed to equitable, thoughtful education.​
We believe:
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Representation matters in children’s books
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Emotional intelligence is as important as academics
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Learning should spark curiosity—not pressure
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Families and educators deserve tools that support real growth
Inclusive, Purpose-Driven Education for Every Child
Our resources are ideal for:
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Parents seeking meaningful learning experiences
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Educators and schools focused on SEL and STEAM
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Libraries, nonprofits, and community organizations
Our mission is to create high-quality children’s books and educational toys that help kids develop confidence, compassion, and critical thinking skills that last beyond the classroom.
What’s Next
We’re continuing to expand our lineup of children’s books, STEAM products, and educational resources, while building partnerships with schools, libraries, and literacy-focused nonprofits.
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Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or organization looking for inclusive, purpose-driven learning tools, we invite you to join us.