STEAM-Y Wonderful Wednesday is a video series posted on the Los Angeles Public Library's North Hollywood Regional Branch's Facebook page every Wednesday.
The videos show fun science experiments using everyday household items. Kids and their parents are strongly encouraged to follow along with the videos. We have been posting these videos for 14 weeks!
Advanced Planning
I do a lot of research on how the experiment can be done and what the science is behind how the experiment works, as well as how these concepts can be found in our everyday lives. STEAM programming is something I do a lot at the library, so I had a lot of resources and ideas already.
Marketing
Budgeting
There is minimal cost as I generally use items that can be found easily at home. This makes it easier for my audience to use what they may have available during COVID-19, to stay safer at home.
Day-of-event Activity
Since this is recorded at my home, I just have to make sure I have all the materials set up. My youngest daughter assists me during the experiment and my middle daughter films everything. Sometimes explaining complicated science concepts trip me up, but my girls help me make it understandable for families.
Program Execution
As the weeks go by (we've done 14 weeks and 14 experiments to date!) we become more adept at filming and presenting. Sometimes I think I've explained things clearly but realize after filming that I could've done things differently. Plus feedback from family and friends helps us hone the presentations to become better for everyone.
Weekly video themes:
- Bubbling Blobs
- Liquid Layers
- Ink Surprise
- Bouncy Egg
- Spinning Tornado
- Milk Art
- Ice Lift
- Rising Water
- Underwater Volcano
- Balloon Blow-up
- Colorful Candies
- Magic Plastic Bag
- Water Fountain
- Cloud in a Jar
- Rainbow Walking Water
We view the insights from our social media platforms and watch for comment feedback and sharing numbers. These help us evaluate the success of the program.
Advice
Just go for it! Kids love trying new things, and science can be a lot of fun. Plus, it's educational, which makes parents happy too.
Supporting Materials
- Feedback (Coming Soon!)
- Programming Librarian Facebook Group
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