Since 2019, COSI has been putting on its annual Science Festival, and this year, FACCES was proud to join the celebration! In partnership with SWACO, we hosted a hands-on STEAM event called “Eco Explorers”. The event was designed for preschoolers, youth, and families to explore sustainability, plant science, and waste reduction in interactive and engaging ways.
Participants travelled through a series of interactive stations across the FACCES campus, discovering how food systems work, how composting and recycling support environmental health, and how small actions at home can make a positive impact on the planet. By combining science, environmental education, art, and hands-on learning, the event introduced early learners to STEAM concepts through creativity and exploration.
The day began with a welcome presentation and event overview before the children and families began rotating through the activities. The first station was filled with recycled materials from cardboard boxes and cans to toilet paper rolls and water bottles. The youth then used these everyday items to create unique art projects.
The second station includes watercolor paints completely made from plants grown in our greenhouse, including beets, turmeric, spinach, and blueberries. The children then used these plant-based watercolors to paint their own pictures.
The youth and families then went to the greenhouse to learn about seed germination, plant growth and soil science. The children were able to make their very own mini greenhouse in a bag, with a germinated seed inside to take home.
Finally, participants went to the vermiculture station led by SWACO. There, they could use magnifying glasses to observe the worms moving through soil.
Overall, participating in the COSI Science Festival and hosting our “Eco Explorers” event was a fun and meaningful opportunity for children and families to connect science, creativity, and environmental knowledge through hands-on experiences. We are so grateful to SWACO and all of the families who joined us for a day of learning, exploration, and discovery, and we look forward to continuing to inspire young learners to care for the world around them.
Want your child to explore new experiences, build confidence, and create lasting memories? FACCES Summer Camp registration is still open. Join us this summer!
