Nature’s Engineers

BCM’s STEM Makerspace

BCM has a new natural science-inspired makerspace: Nature’s Engineers! Nature’s Engineers is a unique space where the marvels of natural science and the excitement of STEM converge. It’s where children become makers, inspired by the intricacies of nature and the principles of scientific inquiry.

Each month features new programs, adaptable to suit a range of ages from 4 to 10, ensuring engaging and age-appropriate experiences for young learners. Nature’s Engineers provides children the opportunity to learn from nature and engage in hands-on STEM activities, fostering creativity and critical thinking, and inspiring the next generation of problem solvers and innovators.

Nature’s Engineers is open Thursdays from 2:30 pm – 5:00 pm during the Museum’s Amazon Community Access Hours, and Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30 am – 5:00 pm. Entry to Nature’s Engineers is included with general admission.

Projects

This Month

April: Be Like Bamboo

Do skyscrapers wiggle? This month in Nature’s Engineers, we will investigate how engineers take inspiration from bamboo to design buildings that can withstand earthquakes.

Build your own skyscraper using popsicle sticks, straws, and air-dry clay, then test its stability and strength with our earthquake simulator. Will your tower stand the test of tectonics?

Coming Up

May: The Science of Sound

What do whales talk about? This month in Nature’s Engineers, we will investigate the nature of sound waves and learn why whales, bats, and birds communicate through song.

Build your own working telephone using cups, raffia, and twine, then test the line by sending your own sound waves. What message will you communicate?