Lisa Gipson
18 Learning Adventures
Fun, educational activities that keep kids engaged
It’s no secret that the best way to stay sharp when kids are out of school is to read (even 20 minutes a day makes a difference), but let’s face it—some children won’t pick up a book unless a teacher insists. So, what’s a parent to do? Find alternative ways to engage a child’s mind and interests! Embark on “field trips” that spark meaningful conversations about interesting topics. Here are 18 experiential learning opportunities. It’s what we consider the best of both education and entertainment in San Diego, featuring adventures in STEM, culture and history, and more. Adventures in STEM
1
Birch Aquarium features 60+ marine life habitats and showcases research by Scripps Oceanography scientists on climate, earth and ocean science. Learn all about their newest tenants, the Little Blue Penguins, see what’s happening in the Giant
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Kelp Forest and get close to sea stars, anemones and more at Tidepool Plaza. http://aquarium.ucsd.edu
2
Check out the Fleet Science Center’s interactive exhibit, Snow: Tiny Crystals, Global Impact, which details the vital role snow plays in our climate and for water resources. Discover fascinating facts about tornados, electricity, microorganisms and outer space, and watch a film under the Giant Dome IMAX Theater. Catch the Sustainable City exhibition before it closes on Sept. 5. www.fleetscience.org
3
Bring history (and STEM) to life with an audio tour aboard one of America’s longest-serving aircraft carriers—the USS Midway. Climb into cockpits, test flight simulators, and chat with one of the Midway’s volunteer docents, who love to share personal stories and military knowledge. www.midway.org
4
Climb aboard a historic fleet of steam boats, submarines and sailing ships—including the iconic Star of India—at the Maritime Museum. Don’t miss the most recent exhibit (all about sea monsters!) and super cool on-the-water adventures. www.SDmaritime.org
5
Enjoy a unique collection of air and spacecrafts and explore interactive flight simulators at the San Diego Air & Space Museum. Ask about the Little Engineers program for ages 2–5. www.sandiegoairandspace.org
6
Discover the junction of imagination and engineering at the San Diego Model Railroad Museum. Experience San Diego’s railway history brought to life through fascinating scale model exhibits. New expanded hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 11–4. www.sdmrm.org
