Pre-schoolers and foundation phase learners are introduced to science through play
Scifest Africa has a number of events tailored for small children, because you are never too young to begin your love affair with science.
Scikids is the first introduction to science for our younger visitors at Scifest Africa, letting pre-schoolers and foundation phase learners encounter science through play. Scikids takes place on March 2-4, 7, and 8 at the City Hall in High Street from 9am-10.30am, 11.30am-1pm and 2pm-3.30pm.
Activity zones allow children to role-play as scientists in order to gain a better understanding of concepts, topics and processes of thinking in scientific disciplines, while providing an experiential base and motivation for further activity learning.
Discover our universe and learn about the basic principles of astronomy in Journey to the Stars. The inflatable planetarium from the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement is a perfect medium for children to learn about the universe, galaxy and solar system. This activity zone will be on show at the City Hall as well as at the Albany Science Museum during the festival. See the programme for further details.
Youngsters can set their imaginations alight with Kids’ Dig, where children are encouraged to grab safety gear and tools, start digging to unearth historical artefacts and fossils, and help tell the story of the geological, paleontological and archaeological past of Grahamstown. This is sure to spark interest in those who are adventure driven.
For the creative mind, the Cardboard Challenge and Denel Paper Aeroplane Competition is a must. The Global Cardboard Challenge is an annual event that invites the world to build anything awesome out of cardboard and recycled materials. The challenge aims to instil creative thinking and foster a community of creative makers, introduce social entrepreneurship at a young age, and use storytelling to celebrate exceptional children and inspire communities. In the Denel Paper Aeroplane Competition, learn more about the aviation industry, from aircraft design and maintenance to careers in aviation, and make your own paper aeroplane, of course.
Why not join a Science Picnic in the Park on Saturday, March 5 from 10am-1pm? Bring a basket and blanket and join our Scifest Africa 2016 contributors for a day of interactive, playful and fun science activities in Grahamstown’s Botanical Gardens, including arts and crafts, a discovery trail, games, live entertainment, science demonstrations, and workshops.
And if you suffer from serious FOMO (ask your children what that is), attend the daily Sunset Shows to see what Scifest Africa has on offer and join our top science show presenters for your daily barrel of laughs.