Young scientists, engineers, artists and problem-solvers can put their curiosity to work with the Bensenville Park District’s new STEAM with Me monthly classes. Designed for ages 5-12, the four-class series combines Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics with hands-on activities that make complex concepts fun, approachable and easy to understand. Sign up for one or all four.
The series begins with the Weather Wonders Lab from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 30, in the Maple/Elm Room at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood St. Participants will investigate what causes storms, tornadoes and rain through hands-on experiments, including creating tornadoes in bottles, rain clouds in jars and testing wind force. The activities will help young weather scientists understand how weather works while encouraging curiosity about the natural world. The registration number is 605106-01.
Next up is the LEGO Engineering Lab (605106-02) from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21. Young engineers will use LEGO-style building bricks to tackle challenges such as constructing the tallest tower, strongest bridge and fastest vehicle. Participants will explore balance, structure and design as they test, modify and improve their creations.
In November, the Turkey Trouble Slime Lab will bring science and slime together from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18. Participants will mix, measure and experiment to create custom slime while learning how ingredients combine to form polymers. Festive fall colors and silly mix-ins add to the fun as participants explore states of matter and chemical reactions before taking their gooey creations home. Register using number 605106-03.
The series wraps up with the Winter Blizzard Build Challenge (605106-04) from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 16. Participants will become young engineers as they design and build structures, shelters and devices using everyday materials, then put their creations to the test in a simulated winter blizzard. Along the way, they’ll explore stability, insulation and force while developing problem-solving, creativity and design skills.
“STEAM learning gives children an opportunity to explore complex topics without making learning feel complicated,” said Leslie Monarrez, Recreation Supervisor-Program Coordinator. “These classes let students experiment, create, test ideas and solve problems in a fun way, so they can learn while having a great time.”
Each STEAM with Me class is for ages 5-12 and has a minimum of five and maximum of 15 participants. Sign up a week prior to each class. The fee is $17, or $15 in district, for each class.
For more information and registration details, visit BvilleParks.org/Register and search the appropriate program registration number, or call the Bensenville Park District at 630-766-7015.
