New science and arts early-release program for kids begins Oct. 10

Western Today staff

October 4, 2012

Western Washington University youth program favorites Odyssey of Science & Arts and Western Arts Preparatory Academy have teamed up to offer the Science & Arts Early Release Program for children in grades K-5 beginning Oct. 10; each Wednesday session is from 1:45-5 p.m.

Designed for students in the Bellingham School District, Science & Arts Early Release is an extraordinary opportunity to explore the fun of science and art in a university setting.

Students will discover the "best kept secret" places on Western's campus and ignite their imagination and creativity with hands-on activities in specialized labs and classrooms. Each session begins with 45 minutes of physical activity before students settle down to learn about one of many exciting topics.

In order to ensure appropriate learning levels and an adult to child ration of 1:10, students will be divided into two groups: grades K-2 and grades 3-5. Students can choose to participate in one or all of the program dates.

This fall, students can experiment with electricity, magnetism, light and sound, and explore gravity and astronomy in Machines and Moving Things: Physics (Oct. 10, 24; Nov. 14, 28). During the first session on Oct. 10, participants will:

  • Explore the phenomenal and invisible world of magnetism and electricity.
  • Experiment with static electricity during a visit to the Learning Resource Center in the Science, Math and Technology Education building.
  • Examine a magnet’s muscles and see a hidden force field become visible.

Students will investigate:

  • The field of a magnet
  • Repelling and attracting
  • What is magnetic and magnetic strength and what is not

Through guided science inquiry, experimentation with magnetism and electricity and recording observations, students will create a science notebook to take home.
Winter and spring themes will include zoology, earth science and visual arts. Early release classes cost $39 per session or $33 each when enrolling in five or more per quarter, when available.

A 20-minute parking permit for convenient drop-off and pick-up will be provided to participants at no additional cost. Students are asked to bring a rain jacket, a healthy snack and drink and a curious mind.

For more information or to register online, visit www.wwu.edu/youth, e-mail youth@wwu.edu or call (360) 650-3308.