DuPage Children’s Museum, Argonne National Laboratory, and Northern Illinois University team up to host first Solar Festival
Explore solar energy, climate science, and all things sun-related at Solar Fest on Sat., Sept. 27, at DuPage Children’s Museum. The first-annual festival, hosted by DuPage Children’s Museum, Argonne National Laboratory, and NIU STEM Read, takes place from 1 – 5PM at the Children’s Museum.
The event features a variety of exciting, educational events and activities for young learners. Meet Argonne National Laboratory’s solar experts, Dr. Seth Darling and Douglas Sisterson – authors of the recently published book, How to Change Minds About Our Changing Climate. Argonne will also feature a variety of activities for all age levels. Young scientists can make color-changing UV bead bracelets, while older kids will experiment with solar-powered ovens and create their very own oven to take home. Scientists will also be speaking about Argonne’s research in organic vs. 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 Center for P-20 Engagement will also be on-site sharing resources and expertise on solar energy. Enjoy sun-related storytime with NIU’s STEM Read or participate in an energy art project and learn how the sun can power our world. Storytime will feature Molly Bang’s popular book My Light, which celebrates the many wonders of the sun and the various ways in which the sun gives us energy and power from its light.
“STEM Read is very excited to again be partnering with DuPage Children’s Museum and Argonne. DCM is bursting with creativity and they always have great ideas for making learning fun,” said Gillian King-Cargile, Coordinator of NIU’s 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 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. And 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 first-annual festival sure to excite and educate children of all ages.
Did you know? DuPage Children’s Museum is more than a Museum…we’re a force for early learning! Via interactive exhibits and programs that make learning fun for children and adults playing together, DuPage Children’s Museum helps develop curiosity, creativity, thinking, and problem solving in young children. The Museum is located at 301 N. Washington Street in Naperville, Illinois, a quick walk from the Naperville Metra train station. Parking is free and the building is wheelchair accessible. For information about hours, Museum admission, and membership packages, visit www.dupagechildrensmuseum.org or call (630) 637-8000.
