In August, e-inc. is presenting the fourth Summer Science Discovery Program, two one-week experiences for children, ages six-12. During Dinosaur Week: Leapin’ Lizards, August 20-24, children will learn about the Cretaceous period, and how dinosaurs roamed the earth for millions of years. Children will explore the world from the beginning of time and learn about how the earth and galaxy formed during Earth: The Final Frontier, August 27-31.
“It’s a fun way to allow our staff to cook up something interesting that has depth and gets them involved in great activities,” said Dr. Ricky Stern, executive director. “It lets the kids walk out of here with real knowledge.”
Students will explore the world of paleontologists and participate in miniature excavations, experiments, and arts and crafts. They will learn about what the earth was like during the time of the dinosaurs, and the adaptations of water and land-based beings.
“The more you read about dinosaurs, the more you realize they’re fascinating,” said Dr. Stern. “We’re going to show kids some of the differences over time in the millions of years they were around.”
During Earth Week, children will learn why earth is unique from every other planet in the solar system, such as how its molten, iron core creates a magnetic field that prevents the sun from being harmful.
“There are 13 things that make earth possible for life,” Dr. Stern explained. “The plate tectonics, the shelves of land above water, move, so they’re dynamic. As a result, the carbon that gets trapped in rocks becomes involved in a massive, rejuvenating carbon cycle.”
Students will learn about the animal species living on earth, and how weather and climate create natural disasters. They will also explore what is underneath the earth’s crust and beneath the water.
“Another thing we’ll be looking at is the positive things kids can do to protect the earth,” said Dr. Stern. “We take a field trip that’s related to the topic each week. They love that, and the comradery.”
The e-inc. Summer Science Discovery Program takes places from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. daily, and costs $425 per week, with extended hours available from 3:30-5:30 p.m. for an additional $15 a day. Parents can register their children by visiting www.einc-action.org, and contact Thi Tran at [email protected] for additional information.