STEM-ology Focuses on Geology for All Ages at UW During April

STEM-ology, a monthly series of themed science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) events for all ages, continues in April at the University of Wyoming, with events including Toddler Tuesdays, Senior Science Fridays and fun-filled family Science Saturdays.

April’s events will have a geology theme and will take place in the STEM Sandbox, located on the fourth floor of the Science Initiative Building, located on the corner of Ninth and Bradley streets.

“We are bringing STEM to life with engaging, hands-on experiences for all ages. Programs are designed to spark curiosity, inspire creativity and make science, technology, engineering and math fun and interactive,” says Ashleigh Pilkerton, community engagement and undergraduate research programming coordinator for UW Science Initiative programs. “STEM-ology activities are a collaborative effort between many groups on the University of Wyoming campus, including the Wyoming NASA Space Grant Consortium Science Kitchen and Science Initiative Roadshow.”

The April schedule is:

-- Tuesday, April 8, 10-10:30 a.m. or 10:30-11 a.m.: Toddler Tuesdays allow children to explore the world through hands-on activities and sensory play. “Tiny Geologists: Dig, Discover, Play!” provides an opportunity for little explorers to dig into the world of fossils, uncover the secret of dinosaur bones and play their way to discovery. With songs, sensory fun and hands-on paleontology adventures, this month is about rock-solid learning. To RSVP, go here.

-- Friday, April 11, 10-11 a.m.: Senior Science Fridays offer a fun and engaging way for older adults to explore the wonders of science. “Rockin’ Through Time” provides an opportunity to discover Earth’s history through rocks, fossils and minerals. Seniors can dive into the ancient past, explore the geologic timeline and uncover how Earth’s history spans millions of years. Attendees will engage in hands-on activities, such as mineral identification, and learn the secrets of fossilization, while understanding how these natural wonders tell the story of Earth’s incredible transformation. To RSVP, go here.

-- Saturday, April 12, 10 a.m.-noon.: Science Saturday is a fun-filled family day designed for all ages. Dive into the fascinating science of Earth as the whole family explores minerals, volcanic hazards and Wyoming’s unique geography through hands-on activities. From seismometry to topography and moving water, families can discover how Earth’s processes shape the world around us in this rock-solid adventure. An RSVP is not required, but families are asked to arrive in time for check-in from 10-10:15 a.m.

-- School and Youth programs: The STEM Sandbox invites teachers and their students to experience hands-on STEM activities on UW’s campus. Designed for learners from pre-K-12, the STEM Sandbox provides a unique opportunity to engage with real-world applications of science that connect directly to the areas shaping Wyoming’s future. This interactive space encourages creativity, problem-solving and collaboration, offering students a chance to explore the science that drives Wyoming’s economy and future innovations. The programs spark curiosity and creativity, making science, technology, engineering and math fun and interactive while meeting state standards.

School and youth programs can schedule a time to come to campus to engage with activities related to the monthly theme.

The final STEM-ology event in May will have a theme of space-ology.

For more information, email Pilkerton at STEMSandbox@uwyo.edu or go to www.wyomingspacegrant.org/stem-ology/.