Little Sparks is Scienceworks’ program of early childhood STEM (science, technology, engineering, maths) workshops designed for preschoolers aged 3-5 years.
It’s rare to find workshops about STEM education in early childhood so tickets for a Little Sparks session go quickly. There are maximum 15 children in each workshop.
The theme of our workshop is ‘Tot Wheels’ and the kids learn about wheels and axles, inclined planes, gravity and force – all in a fun and creative way.
The 50-minute session starts with a story and a song led by the engaging Scienceworks educator Abby.
Then the kids build their replica miniature Cowley Steam Traction Engine (of the Museums Victoria collection) by attaching wheels and axles to the base.
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The last 20 minutes are spent using recycled materials to build a mini city of ramp, bridges and roads for the toy engines to roll on.
Baby 2.0 has so much fun building and testing that he doesn’t want to leave. Luckily he’s able to take his Cowley Steam Tractor Engine home!
All classes require adult supervision and some level of adult involvement, so Scienceworks suggests no more than two children per adult. Younger siblings are welcome to attend without a ticket.
I think Little Sparks offers value for money, with kids tickets costing $14 for members, $16 for non-members plus adult museum admission $14 (adult museum members are free). You can also visit the rest of Scienceworks before and after Little Sparks.
So far Little Sparks sell out very quickly so sign up to the Museum Victoria e-news to find out when next dates go on sale.
Click here for my reviews of other programs and exhibitions at Scienceworks – Ground Up learning and play space for under 5s, Beyond Perception space for teens and special events for under 5s Little Kids Day In
Click here for my reviews of child friendly cafes near Scienceworks – Duchess of Spotswood and Doyle and Sons.
HOT Tips:
- Suitable for 3-5 year olds;
- Bookings essential;
- Books out quickly so sign up to the Museum Victoria e-news to find out when next dates go on sale;
- Adult supervision required, maximum 2 children per adult;
- Classes are limited to 15 children in each session; and
- Visit the rest of Scienceworks before and after Little Sparks.
