STEM-ology Focuses on Animal Science for All Ages at UW This Month

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

This month’s events will have an animal science theme and will take place in the STEM Sandbox, located on the fourth floor of the Science Initiative Building, which is on the corner of Ninth and Bradley streets.

Last spring, STEM-ology drew more than 383 participants from the local community and neighboring states, says Karagh Brummond, director of the UW Top-Tier Science Initiative Engagement and Outreach Program. During fall 2025, STEM-ology events attracted 304 attendees.

“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,” Brummond says.

The September schedule is:

-- Tuesday, Sept. 15, 10-10:30 a.m.: Toddler Tuesdays allow children to explore the world through hands-on activities and sensory play. “Animal Homes: Build a Habitat!” will explore what makes a home the perfect place to live. Children will explore what animals need to live and survive through a fun story and hands-on building activity.

 

After reading “My Home Is Better Than Yours,” children will discover that the “best” home depends on the animal and then use an animal figurine to design and build a custom habitat that provides everything their animal needs. Along the way, children will talk about their animal; make choices about its habitat; and explain why their home is just right for their animal. To RSVP, go here.

 

-- Friday, Sept. 18, 10-11 a.m.: Senior Science Fridays offer a fun and engaging way for older adults to explore the wonders of science. During “Creature Curiosity,” get up close and personal with some fascinating animal ambassadors. Participants will meet snakes, lizards, tarantulas and millipedes while discovering what makes each creature unique. Through this interactive experience, participants will have the opportunity to touch, hold and observe these animals while learning about their adaptations, behaviors and the special features that help them thrive. To RSVP, go here.

-- Saturday, April 12, 10 a.m.-noon.: Science Saturday is a fun-filled family day designed for all ages. The event will provide a morning of hands-on exploration and discovery about animal science. After a brief welcome and orientation, participants will rotate through a variety of interactive activity stations where they can get up close with animal ambassadors, investigate fish, explore animal habitats and discover how genetics influence animal traits. With opportunities to touch, build, investigate, experiment and play, there’s something for curious scientists of all ages.

An RSVP is not required, but families are asked to arrive in time for check-in from 10-10:15 a.m.

Other fall STEM-ology events will focus on meteorology in October and mathematics in November.

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