San Francisco (CNN) Nintendo has long been synonymous with entertainment. But now the gaming giant is getting into education.

The company announced on Tuesday it is partnering with education nonprofit Institute of Play to bring its popular Switch gaming console and DIY Labo kits to 100 classrooms across the United States. The effort aims to help kids build communication and critical thinking skills in science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM).

The Nintendo Switch, which is both a handheld and home console, sold roughly 10 million units after its launch. In January 2018, the company introduced Nintendo Labo , series of DIY projects that allows kids to build things such as an RC car, a fishing rod and a piano out of cardboard. These cardboard figures are used with Switch video games and can tech basic programming skills through its Toy-Con Garage feature.

Nintendo is bringing the products to 100 schools nationwide for kids ages 8 to 11. A pilot program has already brought kits to 11 schools in the New York City Tri-State area. The program will run through March 2019.

Interested schools can also apply to participate. The Institute of Play said it will eventually create lesson plans for any teacher who wants to introduce it in their classroom.

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