Are you energized for a new year?

The power to make things happen is what we call energy. From the sun and wind to the electricity we use, energy comes in many forms. Join us throughout January as we explore how we can use and conserve energy.

On Tuesdays and Thursdays, find out how energy changes from potential to kinetic energy as we explore Newton's Cradle and make pompom shooters. On Wednesdays and Fridays, learn all about chemical energy as we investigate exothermic reactions and the heat given off when we combine certain chemicals.

Additional activities this month include:

January 7 & 8: Wind Energy - How does wind make energy? The story The Wind Blew by Pat Hutchins will start off our discovery. Then we'll make a craft that will demonstrate the wind’s power.

January 14 & 15: Electrical Energy - Have you ever received a shock when touching a door knob? Fun with Static Electricity by Joy Cowley is the story this weekend, followed by some interesting electrical experiments.

January 16: Martin Luther King Jr. Day - Yes, the Museum will be open on this special Monday as we celebrate with the story Martin Luther King Jr. by Marion Dane Bauer, followed by experiments and crafts.

January 21 & 22: Solar Energy - We’re reading The Sun is My Favorite Star by Frank Asch before heading experimenting with ultraviolet beads.

January 28 & 29: Chinese New Year - The Chinese New Year festival has been celebrated for more than 4,000 years. It marks the end of a long winter season and the beginning of spring. Enjoy a special story and create some traditional Chinese crafts.