Looking for something fun and engaging to do with your family this weekend? Or any weekend, really? Think about a Think Lab!
Think Labs are hour-long programs designed with families in mind. Children ages 4 and up and their caregivers work side-by-side while digging deep into innovative art and science topics. Think Labs take place on Saturdays and Sundays in either Kitchen Lab or Space 8, with sessions at various times to accommodate busy schedules. Each STEAM-focused Think Lab is held in a small group setting for a completely collaborative experience. Whether you’re exploring complex processes, using scientific tools or creating with unique materials, the whole family will be learning together.
Another cool thing about Think Labs? Children ages 4–7 and their caregivers can now get a sneak peek into Space 8, our maker lab specifically designed for ages 8 and up. This exclusive opportunity allows them to explore the science behind virtual reality, create unique creatures and learn woodworking in this educator-led learning environment. It’s a great way to introduce younger children to the advanced tools and technologies used in Space 8.
Each month, our Think Labs rotate among new and exciting STEAM themes. Take a look at our upcoming programs!
Fizz & Pop (Ages 4+), 1 hour, Kitchen Lab
July 16, 17, 30 and 31 at 11:15 am or 1:15 pm or 3:15 pm
Have you ever wondered what makes things fizz, pop or go boom? Join us in Kitchen Lab as we explore concoctions while investigating science that will blow your mind.
Virtual Views (Ages 4-7), 1 hour, Space 8
July 23 and 24 at 12:15 pm
Visit new places, fly around the world or travel into space by exploring the science behind virtual reality! Gain special access to Space 8 and explore gadgets that make virtual reality possible.
Radical Realities! (Ages 8+), 1 hour, Space 8
July 23 and 24 at 2:15 pm or 4:15 pm
Experiment with the equipment that makes virtual reality possible. You’ll even have the chance to make your own VR mask for a smartphone.
Tracking Termites (Ages 4+), 1 hour, Kitchen Lab
August 6, 7, 20 and 21 at 11:15 am or 1:15 pm or 3:15 pm
These natural recyclers do more than just eat wood. We’ll explore how these little creatures communicate without using words, while making some interesting art.
Simple Stitches (Ages 4-7), 1 hour, Space 8
August 13, 14, 27 and 28 at 12:15 pm
Create your own stuffed animal while learning sewing basics. Explore simple stitches with needle and thread and use polymer fabric and unfamiliar materials to create a unique creature from the ground up.
Polymer Wearables (Ages 8+), 1 hour, Space 8
August 13, 14, 27, 28 at 2:15 pm or 4:15 pm
Stitch together the fundamentals of fabrication by creating your own polymer wearables. Together, we’ll create customized designs while experimenting with needlework and sewing machines.
Suminagashi Fabrics (Ages 4+), 1 hour, Kitchen Lab
September 3, 4, 17 and 18 at 11:15 am or 1:15 pm or 3:15 pm
Join us in Kitchen Lab as we learn about the ancient Japanese marbling technique of Suminagashi. We’ll blend floating inks in pools of water to create custom pieces to take home.
Tinkering with Tools (Ages 4-7), 1 hour, Space 8
September 10, 11, 24 and 25 at 12:15 pm
Tinkery at Thinkery! Hammer down the basics of woodworking by tinkering with pull saws, hammers and hand drills.
Woodworking (Ages 8+), 1 hour, Space 8
September 10, 11, 24 and 25 at 2:15 pm or 4:15 pm
Hammer down the basics of woodworking by tinkering with power tools such as tabletop saws, belt sanders and corded drills. Learn effective and safe use of tools while making a special wooden keepsake.
What are you waiting for? Come create and collaborate in a Think Lab!
Tickets may be purchased online or onsite—simply drop in for an hour-long program. Please make sure to reserve both Adult and Child tickets for your Think Lab! Think Lab price does not include General Admission; General Admission tickets are required for museum entry.