Explore solar energy, climate science and all things sunny Saturday, Sept. 27, during Solar Fest at DuPage Children’s Museum.
Hosted by DuPage Children’s Museum, Argonne National Laboratory and NIU STEM Read, Solar Fest takes place from 1 to 5 p.m.
The event features exciting, educational events and activities for young learners. Visitors will have a chance to meet Argonne National Laboratories’ solar experts, Seth Darling and Douglas Sisterson – authors of the recently published book, “How to Change Minds About Our Changing Climate.”
Argonne will also present activities for all age levels. Young scientists can make color-changing UV bead bracelets, while older kids experiment with solar-powered ovens and create their very own ovens to take home. Scientists also will speak about Argonne’s research in organic and silicone solar panels and will teach adults and older children how to construct solar panels to generate and supply electricity.
“Solar Fest provides us an engaging environment to connect with all ages about the importance of solar energy,” said Meridith Bruozas, manager of Educational Programs and Outreach, Argonne National Laboratory. “Today’s youth will be tomorrow’s scientists and engineers. Having opportunities to meet and talk with a solar scientist or to explore solar energy through hands-on activities continues to fuel their interest in science and keeps them moving down the STEM path.”
Experts from Northern Illinois University’s P-20 Center will share resources and expertise on solar energy. STEM Read will host a sun story time featuring Molly Bang’s popular book “My Light,” which celebrates the many wonders of the sun and the ways the sun provides energy and power from its light. Mary Baker, coordinator of SMARTspace@NIU, will premiere a new online game about the science of the sun.
Other NIU groups including STEM Outreach, the Institute for the Study of the Environment, Sustainability, and Energy and student volunteers will be on hand for science-related fun in the sun.
“STEM Read and the P-20 Center is very excited to partner with DuPage Children’s Museum and Argonne again. DCM is bursting with creativity, and they always have great ideas for making learning fun,” said Gillian King-Cargile, coordinator of STEM Read. “Argonne is a national leader in energy research and this will be a great opportunity for young children and their families to interact with Argonne’s engaging and approachable scientists.”
Additional activities include a sun catcher craft project provided by the Naperville Public Library, Creativity Studio art activities, and a Museum-wide scavenger hunt on all things solar. Special solar-themed treats will also be available for purchase in the Museum’s S.M.A.R.T. Café. Also, don’t miss a special appearance by Superman, who will teach children about how he gets his energy from the sun!
Celebrate the wonder and power of our radiant sun at this festival sure to excite and educate children of all ages. DuPage Children’s Museum is located at 301 N. Washington St. in Naperville.
For more information, call (630) 637-8000 or email admin@dupagechildrensmuseum.org.
