J and I (K) are both educators, and we hear a lot about STEM education and its cousins, STEAM and STEM-H. It's true that scientific thinking is important now and will be important in the future, regardless of one's chosen adult roles. We work hard to try to help E, age 8, and G, age 4, learn various disciplines for thinking, and right now, a lot of that is about exposure to ideas and people who are passionate about them. The Randolph College SciFest, an annual event including Science Day for kids, has become a favorite way to encourage E. By next year, it might be a good fit for G, too.
When E realized we were headed to Science Day, he remembered his first trip last year and building cool boats to carry pennies fondly. He was eager to get in place and explore this year's topics, which, from observation of the gym, included connections to archaeology, math, and earth and space science quite clearly. Science Day features a rotation of such activities lasting about 4 hours and allowing kids to mingle with new friends (or the friends they brought with them). It's like a combination of the best of the interactivity of science classrooms/labs and science museums. It's not as intense or themed as a science camp, but the quality of activities is similar.
Honestly, I (K) had not been to the Randolph College campus before, so SciFest has become a great excuse to go. One of my very bright faculty members is a Randolph grad, and the campus consistently presents as encouraging academics and true community. (While I certainly recognize the importance of college athletics and social life, I prefer campuses that don't overemphasize these elements of the college experience.) The students at Science Day are diverse, energetic, and thoughtful--way to represent, Randolph! They also keep a good handle on the kids while preserving a fun atmosphere.
If you go to Science Day, know that a parent/guardian must stay present on campus. You can visit the well-regarded Maier Museum's art collection and engage in similar activities, like a campus tour, or you can be like me and sit in the stands and do some homework, although I know I must take in the Maier Museum soon. The generosity of area businesses provides the kids materials, T-shirts, and snacks. If you are interested in going next year, start following I Love Randolph Science on Facebook and watch for registration dates--this amazing FREE event often fills up. On event day, dress comfortably for inside and outside activities and arrive about an hour before start for the best parking choices. More interested in the Roanoke area? Try the Virginia Tech Science Festival and/or Senses and Scienceability at Jefferson College. We also like to think of college campuses as wonderful places to go for a walk/access interesting events, and we've visited Washington and Lee, VMI, Roanoke College, and Hollins College particularly.
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