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

July: Hide and Seek

Have you ever wondered how a chameleon disappears into its surroundings? This month in Nature’s Engineers, we’re learning how animals blend in or stand out to survive. These same tricks help artists and designers create amazing optical illusions and special effects.

Join us in BCM’s STEM makerspace to create a habitat where your animal can perfectly blend in, exploring how creatures use color, shape, and patterns to hide or be seen. Can you camouflage your animal so well that a friend can’t find it in under 10 seconds?

Up Next

August: Wave Breakers

How can coral reefs help protect us from big storms? This month in Nature’s Engineers, we’re learning how coral reefs protect coastal communities (like ours!) from waves and flooding. Engineers use these same ideas to design sea walls and barriers that keep our cities safe during hurricanes.

Join us in BCM’s STEM makerspace to build your own reef-inspired structure using LEGO blocks. Test your model in our wave tank and see how big of a wave your structure can withstand!