The SPARK Program

During the W!LD:  Wondrous Innovations and Living Designs™ module, children embark on a wild animal adventure to investigate some of the most spectacular and innovative animals on the planet.  In this module, children are introduced to the concept of biomimicry and explore how nature can be used to inspire new innovations.  Uncovering the properties of color, exploring infrared light, and extracting iron from cereal are just several of the activities that allow children to reflect on the many ways that the animal kingdom has served as inspiration to mankind throughout the history of time.  

During the Bounce! An Atomic Journey™ module, children investigate the science of atoms and molecules by experimenting with bouncy balls!  A dynamic mix of chemistry and physical science, children bounce their way through atoms, molecules, mixtures, and compounds to figure out how cool matter (like a bouncy ball) is created.  Children design high-bouncing investigations, practice moving atoms like nanotechnologists, conduct inquiry-based static electricity experiments, and make salty solutions, slimy compounds, and fascinating polymers.

The I Can Invent: Edison’s Workshop™ module illustrates the joys (and frustrations) that real inventors face during the process of creating totally new inventions.  During the week, children work in teams to create multi-step inventions using pieces and parts of wind-up alarm clocks and other provided materials.  Older children spend the last three days of the week creating multi-step, Rube Goldberg-type machines that solve a given challenge while younger children create multi-step, ball-rolling machines. Both age groups use and develop creative and critical-thinking skills as they encounter problems or unfamilar situations throughout the week.

Combining physical activity and creativity, children practice teamwork, cooperation, coordination, and Creative Problem Solving during fun, energetic games in the Game On: Power Play™ module.  These activities were designed under the guise that traditional games can be modified using nontraditional approaches and converge the functions of mind and body while children work collectively in diverse teams.  These games facilitate inventive and inquisitive-thinking skills while incorporating 21st century life skills such as collaboration, communication, and whole-systems thinking.  Inclusion and Creative Problem Solving are stressed, rather than winning or losing.