Summer Science Coming to a Library Near You

Now in its 32nd year, “Science in the Summer” programs will take place in the coming weeks at libraries in Pottstown, Royersford, Red Hill and Schwenksville.

The hands-on programs are co-sponsored by GlaxoSmithKline and The Franklin Institute and feature hands-on science activities for children from second through sixth grades.

Level one classes are best for students in second and third grade, while level two classes are best for students entering fourth, fifth and sixth grades.

Examples of this year’s activities include making and operating straw rockets; comparing the effects of UV rays on UV-sensitive beads (they glow when exposed), with and without sunscreen; and making and operating rockets made of film canisters fueled with antacids and water.

Many of the activities can be repeated at home.

“Scientists and astronomers have made extraordinary discoveries about the universe in recent years, making this an exciting time to introduce young people to world beyond ours,” said Marti Skold-Jordan, manager of community partnerships for GSK.

“The Science of Space classes will make the connection between these discoveries and STEM concepts and skills in a way that children will remember for years to come, and that will help ignite their scientific curiosity for a lifetime,” she said.

STEM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering and math.

“By introducing STEM materials at a young age, we’re preparing them for future opportunities in STEM careers,” said Karen Elinich, director of science content and learning technologies for The Franklin Institute.

The classes will be taught by certified local teachers and the libraries that participate will receive children’s science book donations to support continued science learning.

Registration is ongoing until classes fill up, or start, whichever comes first. Call your local library for details.

Here is a list of programs and location organized by date:

• July 2-3, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Level 1 — Perkiomen Valley Library, 290 Second St., Schwenksville

• July 2-3, 1 to 3 p.m., Level 2 — Perkiomen Valley Library, 290 Second St., Schwenksville

• July 2-3, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Level 1 — Upper Perkiomen Library, 350 Main St., Red Hill

• July 2-3, 1 to 3 p.m., Level 2 — Upper Perkiomen Library, 350 Main St., Red Hill

• July 23-24, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Level 1 — Pottstown Regional Public Library, 500 High St., Pottstown

• July 23-24, 1 to 3 p.m., Level 2 — Pottstown Regional Public Library, 500 High St., Pottstown

• July 25-26, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Level 1 — Pottstown Regional Public Library, 500 High St., Pottstown

• July 25-26, 1 to 3 p.m., Level 1 — Pottstown Regional Public Library, 500 High St., Pottstown

• July 30-31, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Level 1 — Royersford Free Public Library, 200 S. Fourth St., Royersford

• July 30-31, 1 to 3 p.m., Level 2 — Royersford Free Public Library, 200 S. Fourth St., Royersford

This Saturday in Science in the Summer @ The Library

So rather than me tell you about some fancy new scientific invention or discovery today, instead I'm going to

tell you about a program you can send your kids to which may help them develop an appreciation for science.

Each year, the Pottstown Regional Public Library hosts a program for young scientists organized around a different theme and sponsored by GlaxoSmithKline and administered by The Franklin Institute.

This year's theme is Genetics.

I can vouch for the quality of this program as my son participated in it until he grew too old.

It will be held at the Pottstown Regional Public Library from July 22 through July 25.

Registration began on June 17 and ends on July 9.

Morning sessions for grades 2-3 are from 10 to 10:45 a.m. and from 11:15 to 12 p.m. for grades 4-6.

Afternoon sessions for grades 2-3 are from 2 to 2:45 p.m. and for grades 4-6 from 3:15 to 4 p.m.

The program is free and taught by certified teachers and features hands-on experiments.

Classes are small with 15 students each, so don't dawdle and register today.

For more information call the library at 610-970-6551, click this link, or visit www.scienceinthesummer.com.