"Bring Your Little Architects to our New Build It Up Class..."

Calling all architects - Let's build some fun!

Can you think of a way to make learning about gravity exciting? Are your kids stoked to hear a lesson on molecules? Chances are, these kinds of science topics are tough for your kids to wrap their heads around.

The Discovery Center makes these science lessons something they'll look forward to! This February, your kids can join us for one of four different lessons in our Build It Up class. They can study the principles of structures, learn which shapes are the strongest, and even look at some of the most famous buildings in history.

Here's what your kids can expect at Build It Up, Saturdays this February from 12-3 p.m.:

  • Principles of Building (Feb. 7th):
    Learn about the principles of building in this hands-on class! Instructor Marlon and the students will perform experiments and demonstrations while using a variety of building materials. They'll learn all about balance, center of gravity, and look at which shapes are the strongest. The little builders will also get to make their own structures to try and build the biggest, strongest building using their newfound knowledge of architecture!

  • The Smallest Building Blocks (Feb. 14th):
    Come learn about the world's smallest building blocks that make up the Earth - the molecules! Students will create molecular models out of items like clay, marshmallows, toothpicks, and straws. Instructor Marlon will demonstrate how to arrange and combine molecules to make up many common elements we all need to survive, such as carbon and oxygen.

  • Ancient Structures (Feb. 21st):
    Be prepared for a jump back in time as we learn about different ancient structures! Students will learn about adobe, Mayan and Egyptian pyramid construction, Gothic cathedrals, Roman and Greek buildings and aqueducts, medieval castles, and more! Instructor Shannon will assist the students in constructing miniature models of these historic sites out of different kinds of household and yard materials.

  • Native American Structures (Feb. 28th):
    Learn about using natural building materials as we explore the materials used by the Native Americans in our valley. Students will get to learn about Miwok Tepees (and go inside some real ones on our grounds!), Yokut huts, the use of plants, wood, and stone as building materials, and will get to create their own model tepee out of materials they gather themselves!