Naper Settlement’s Family STEM Nights give kids and caregivers the chance to explore, experiment, and learn side by side. These hands-on workshops cover a wide range of STEM topics, from defying gravity to the power of pollinators, the opportunities for family fun are endless. My husband and I just enjoyed a date night Naper Settlement’s Craft by Beer Series, and now it was time to get our kids involved in the fun.
Below, you’ll find details on how Family STEM Nights work and what you can expect if you book a future family date night.
Naper Settlement’s Family STEM Nights
What to Expect
- 1-hour themed experience (6:00pm – 7:00pm)
- Hands-on STEM activities (varies by theme, which changes monthly)
- $8 per person
- Programs are designed for children ages 5 to 11 and their adult
Activities and Experiences
The theme of our evening was “Gravity Galore”, which meant we were testing the limits of gravity. We entered through the Birck Family Innovation Gateway, which is the entrance along Webster Street. After check-in, we walked through the grounds of Naper Settlement to make our way to the Family Agriculture Center, which is the big red barn in the center of the property.
When we arrived, staff had an activity waiting for us as we waited for all guests to get settled. We were given a balloon and a straw, and encouraged to defy gravity by keeping the balloon afloat using only our straws. We loved to be moving around and found ourselves giggling as we tried to work as a team.
Naper Settlement staff introduced the workshop and explained all that we’d do during our time. Through the help of students from Bach to Rock, we then explored the impact that gravity has on music. With rain sticks and hand-held drums, we made music as a family, as well as a whole group.
We rounded out our time by trying to save Humpty Dumpty in a hand-made contraption created out of miscellaneous materials. Throughout the hour, all of the activities were introduced and followed up with discussions of gravity, and how its role impacts the world around us.
Who Would Love This Event?
- STEM-loving school-aged children
- Parents looking for a unique one-on-one experience with their child
The activities were designed for children ages 5-11 years old, and I felt like most kids in our class were on the younger end of that range. My 10-year old still found herself having fun and being challenged by the activities presented to us. All of the activities were age appropriate for my 7-year old, who made connections to things he had learned in class, or to real-world things he has experienced in the past.
As a parent, I loved that all of the activities were planned for us, including the supplies, and we could just enjoy our time talking and exploring together. I honestly felt that the time passed quickly, and we were sad to see our visit come to an end.
Food
No food is allowed during Family STEM Nights. Keep in mind, Naper Settlement is located in the heart of downtown Naperville, surrounded by countless dining options, making it easy to grab dinner before or after the event to make it a special night out.
Parking
Free street parking is available throughout all of downtown Naperville, with the most convenient being along Webster Street. If that space is full, the Water Street Parking Garage is a short walk away, as is a free parking lot just south of Naper Settlement.
Dates and Times
The Family STEM Nights series runs twice a month, with sessions on select Thursday evenings from 6:00pm – 7:00pm. With different offerings each month, the themes and dates are listed below:
- March 5 and 19: Gravity Galore
- April 2 and 16: Build-A-Palooza
- May 7 and 21: Over the Rainbow
- June 4 and 18: Garden 101
- July 2 and 16: Solar Science
- August 6 and 20: Engineering Challenge (Skyscapers)
- September 10 and 24: Pollinator Power
- October 8 and 22: Mad Scientist Potion Lab
- November 5 and 19: Fantastic Food Science
- December 3 and 17: 3D Printing Studio
It’s important to book your ticket in advance to ensure participation, as Family STEM Nights will fill up. No matter the session, the pricing is the same.
Prices
Tickets are $8 per person for all participants.
Looking for more ways to explore STEM topics? We have a list of local STEM classes.
