Last month, Illinois Science Explorers (I-Sci Explorers) brought science to local families at the January Family STEM Night, enjoying pizza and interactive STEM activities. This event, hosted in collaboration between I-Sci and the Champaign Park District’s Marten Center, aimed to introduce families to different aspects of STEM through interactive stations. By experimenting, building, and problem-solving together, children discovered new interests and developed confidence in their ability to explore STEM concepts.
“We want kids to see that science is something they can do, not just something that happens in a lab far away,” said Paige, I-Sci Explorers program coordinator. “When families engage in hands-on science together, kids start to see themselves as capable and curious learners.”
Each station focused on a particular topic. At the science station, families explored liquid density by layering water, vegetable oil, and corn syrup, then tested how beads and paper clips settled in the different layers. The technology station sparked creativity as children used a special app to animate their hand-colored designs on an iPad. The engineering station turned into a friendly competition, with families constructing towers and bridges from toothpicks and marshmallows while tracking the tallest structures on a leaderboard. At the math station, attendees put their problem-solving skills to the test with tangrams, which are puzzle shapes that can form intricate shapes and patterns.
Families learning alongside their children in these ways can help foster a love for discovery at home. “When parents show enthusiasm, kids pick up on that,” Paige said. “It’s about creating a culture where asking questions and exploring are encouraged beyond tonight.”
The I-Sci Explorers program has been making an impact for over a year, particularly through its work with after-school programs at the Martens Center. “It has been incredible to see the kids become familiar with us and get excited for our visits each week. When we arrive, they’ll run into the room, asking ‘What are we doing today?!’ This is what I-Sci is all about.” Paige said.
“We give children the opportunity to explore different areas of science, helping them discover passions they may not have realized before and encouraging them to pursue their interests with confidence.” As Paige puts it, “The best moments are when kids light up and say, ‘I did it!’ That’s what this is all about.” The I-Sci team is thrilled to continue the momentum with the next Family STEM Night, which will be led by one of the program partners, the Cancer Center at Illinois!