Mad Science at Castleton Free Library

Do you have a mad scientist in your midst? Come channel that energy into benevolent curiosity at our first monthly Family Night at Castleton Free Library. Family Chemistry Night: "Essential Elements" will kick-off the series on Tuesday Nov. 6th from 6:30-8:00 pm. Amy Clapp (certified instructor and local elementary teacher) will lead families through a variety of hands-on science activities, with Ivy Marr (Castleton University chemistry faculty) on deck to help with questions. This is a free program for all ages, but children must be accompanied by a participating adult (don't forget to go vote early - it is Election Day). We ask that you please sign up with approximate number of people attending so that we have enough materials - email castletonfreelibrary@gmail.com; send a Facebook message to Castleton Free Library; or call 468-5574 to leave a message. Please let us know by Friday Nov. 2nd if possible.

The evening will include a brief slide presentation by Amy for adults, while kids have an introduction to chemistry and a Q&A wonder session with Ivy. For most of the evening, participants will explore stations set up with a variety of hands-on science activities that are cheap, easy, and fun - examples of activities that can be carried on at home or in classrooms. Those who sign up in advance will receive goodie bags with many more activity ideas. This is a great program for homeschool families. Amy also has presented the material as professional development for fellow teachers, and she encourages any interested teachers to attend. The "You Be the Chemist Essential Elements" program was developed by the Chemical Educational Foundation to provide K-12 educators with methods for teaching concepts through hands-on learning and real-world connections, based on the constructivist 5E's learning cycle approach (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, Evaluate).