Mixing, Observing and Reacting

Chemistry is the focus of our hybrid science this semester, so we are doing our best to combine random substances and then watch them react.  From oil and Alka-Seltzer to dirty oxidized pennies and vinegar, we're having fun mixing things up!

 

Equipped with his five senses, man explores the universe around him and calls the adventure Science. ~Edwin Powell Hubble

Guatemala: Science Camp

Rockets, magnets, gak, plants, cooking and sound vibrations. 

Guatey science camp had all the makings of seriously lively scientific fun. 

While in Guatemala, we had the joy of teaching a science camp at a small, private Christian school.  As part of the Redeemer's House's ministry, the Radford family hosts an after-school program there.   The educational system of Guatemala is struggling.  Kids of all different ages are in various grades, and teaching just the basics is challenging.  Knowing that hands on science experiments are a luxury, our camp was a great way for the Redeemer's House to support the school and and meet the needs of the kids in a relational way. 

Each morning, greeted with smiles and hugs, we entered the little school loaded with bags of supplies.  Stations were set up in a small, outdoor area on tables or on the concrete floor.  After an intro to the area of science that we'd be exploring that day, kids received mini magnifying glasses with colored ribbons that signified their learning team. 

Planting seeds with eight groups of kids from 5-16 in their adorable school uniforms filled one of my mornings.  As we read about how seeds grow and planted them in plastic cups, their level of engagement was such a joy to experience.  None of these materials or experiences were taken for granted, each genuinely appreciated. 

For four days, we made leaf prints, erupted volcanoes, experienced chemical reactions and listened to kazoos. 

The highlight of my week was the film canister rockets. 
Possibly slightly more entertained than the kids, we squealed, screamed and "Opa"-ed with every explosion. 

Read Angel Radford's post about our crazy science fun!

A million thanks to Denise P., who is a science camp planning rock star.

Mom and Me Science Day

Though we went to learn more about space, our museum field was filled with all sorts of science deliciousness beyond that. 

 

With great anticipation, and trusty map in hand, we headed in.

We stopped to be small next to the dinosaur, 

and then headed straight to the work of panning for gems. 

Sneaking in just before a school group,

the panning stream was all ours. 

We filled little bags with a rainbow of gems, poured water on ourselves and then headed over to identify our loot. 

The world of paleontology was next on the agenda,
and we are happy to report fossil finding success.

This was the day that our girl tried to wrap her brain around the concept of extinction.  The word "extinct" was used 47 times throughout the rest of the day, and the questions flowed...

"Why?"

"Does EVERYBODY know that animals are extinct?" 

"Should we tell everybody?"

"Will we find their bones on the beach?"

"Are the dinosaurs in heaven?"

Shesh! This momma's brain was tired from firing off responses!

 

And oh, the glorious amethyst. 

This stone collecting chick was mesmerized. 

This field trip was the sweetest of memories. 

We giggled.  We read signs.  We lingered.  We oohed and we ahhed. 

We walked on past the boring stuff that was out of her league.   

 We held hands and talked about science. 
The nerdy teacher momma in me was in heaven.

And now, a beautiful purple amethyst (that called out to her at the gift shop) has been added to her nightstand collection of treasures. 

Lest you think that it is all hand-holding and sunshine around these parts, the little scientist later threw a fit when we had to leave the playground we picniked at!  Must keep it real!