January 4, 2017

'Investigate' science labs begin Jan. 14


Young visitors to the University of Nebraska State Museum-Morrill Hall can explore topics such as insects, solar eclipses and sports technology during the 2017 Investigate: Second Saturday Science Lab series. Program activities are free with regular museum admission.

The monthly series kicks off Jan. 14 with a program on food science from 10 a.m. to noon. The event will feature members of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Food Science Technology Club and appearances by Runza Rex and Archie, the museum’s mascot.

Children can earn prizes for attending the science labs. For three events attended, a child becomes a “science intern” and receives a sheet of science-themed stickers; for six events attended, a child becomes an “assistant investigator” and receives a Runza kid’s meal certificate and coloring book; and for nine events attended, a child becomes a “lead investigator” and earns a water bottle and nametag. Families can download and print the calendar here or pick up a copy at Morrill Hall.

“Talk about fun – I love the hands-on activities to figure out how science impacts our lives every day,” said museum director Susan Weller. “It can be messy, but there’s always an ‘aha’ moment. It makes me wish I could be a kid again.”

The science labs are 10 a.m. to noon the second Saturday of each month at Morrill Hall. Activities are designed for children 5 to 10. The 2017 series is presented by Eagle Printing and Sign, with support from Runza Restaurants.