Join DuPage Children's Museum for first Solar Fest

Explore solar energy, climate science and all things sun-related at DuPage Children's Museum's first Solar Fest.

Hosted by DuPage Children's Museum, Argonne National Laboratory and Northern Illinois University STEM Read, the event features a variety of educational events and activities for young learners from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at 301 N. Washington St., Naperville.

Argonne National Laboratory solar experts Seth Darling and Douglas Sisterson, authors of the recently published book "How to Change Minds About Our Changing Climate," will attend and Argonne will offer a variety of activities for all age levels.

Young scientists can make color-changing UV bead bracelets, while older kids can experiment with solar-powered ovens and create their own oven to take home.

Scientists also will speak about Argonne's research in organic vs. silicone solar panels and will teach adults and older children how to construct solar panels to generate and supply electricity.

"Solar Fest provides us an engaging environment to connect with all ages about the importance of solar energy," said Meridith Bruozas, manager of Educational Programs and Outreach for Argonne.

"Today's youth will be tomorrow's scientists and engineers. Having opportunities to meet and talk with a solar scientist, or to explore solar energy through hands-on activities, continues to fuel their interest in science and keeps them moving down the STEM path."

Experts from Northern Illinois University's Center for P-20 Engagement will share resources and expertise on solar energy. Enjoy sun-related storytime with NIU's STEM Read or participate in an energy art project and learn about solar power. Storytime will feature Molly Bang's popular book "My Light," which celebrates the sun and the ways the sun gives us energy and power from its light.

"STEM Read is very excited to again be partnering with DuPage Children's Museum and Argonne. DCM is bursting with creativity, and they always have great ideas for making learning fun," said Gillian King-Cargile, coordinator of NIU's STEM Read.

"Argonne is a national leader in energy research, and this will be a great opportunity for young children and their families to interact with Argonne's engaging and approachable scientists."

Additional activities include a sun catcher craft project provided by Naperville Public Library, Creativity Studio art activities, and a museum-wide scavenger hunt on all things solar. Special solar-themed treats will be for sale in the museum's SMART Café.

And don't miss Superman, who will teach children how he gets his energy from the sun.

For information, visit dupagechildrensmuseum.org or call (630) 637-8000.