"What does the science behind shaving cream have in common with the Hokey Pokey? They were both the basis for the hands-on experiments young learners experienced during the Super Science Summer event held at LPB in July." - Colleen Spillane with LPB
On July 9, 2025, young minds from across the capital region gathered for an exciting day of exploration, discovery, and hands-on learning at Super Science Summer, a partnership between Louisiana Public Broadcasting (LPB) and the Capital Area STEM Network Center. This dynamic event invited 8–13-year-olds to explore chemistry and computer science, all while celebrating the creativity and curiosity that make science fun.
Hosted at Louisiana Public Broadcasting, the event featured two live demonstrations designed to show kids that science isn’t just something you read about, it’s something you do.
In our first demo, students explored the chemistry behind art by creating beautiful marbled paper using just shaving cream, paint, and paper. As they swirled colors and watched patterns transfer like magic, they also learned the science behind it:
- Soap molecules are amphipathic, meaning they have both water-loving and water-repelling sides.
- Paint floats on the shaving cream because of polarity.
- Paper (made of cellulose) attracts the paint, leaving behind a colorful, permanent design.
This activity introduced kids to real chemistry concepts like molecular structure, polarity, and surface tension, through a hands-on, creative experience they could take home.
In the second demo, students peered into the world of computer science by programming Finch robots using block-based coding through the FinchBlox app. With just a few logical steps, kids could:
- Make robots move, light up, or spin
- Plan sequences of code to solve small challenges
- See how computational thinking turns into real-world action
This activity introduced the fundamentals of problem-solving, sequencing, and creative logic, showing kids how they can become digital creators, not just consumers.
The day also gave students a special look into PBS’s Chip Kids, a web series designed to ignite children’s imagination about science and engineering. Through engaging experiments and STEM storylines, the series helps kids see themselves as future scientists, engineers, coders, and inventors.
By combining the excitement of live science with the inspiration of Chip Kids, the event helped reinforce one powerful message: STEM is for everyone, and it starts with curiosity.
At a time when early STEM exposure can shape long-term learning and career interests, events like this are critical. With engaging partners like LPB and exciting platforms like Chip Kids, we’re building momentum toward a future where more children see science as something they can do, understand, and love.
Special thank you to LPB's Colleen Spillane for organizing the event and to Melissa Tolson for joining the Capital Area STEM Network Center's Advisory Board!
