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Designed in 2015 by the museum’s exhibit team and educators, Mega Making blends learning and play in a hands-on manner that celebrates the creativity in children. The current "Maker Movement" in the U.S. is working to inspire students to become creators of learning rather than passive consumers of learning. Children are the future engineers, designers, inventors, artists, teachers, and scientists. Mega Making takes a constructivist approach to learning by giving adults, children and students the materials, tools, support and creative freedom while providing an opportunity to build 21st century skills including flexibility and adaptability, initiative and self-direction, critical thinking and problem solving, and creativity and innovation.
Mega Making is organized into five main areas: art, textiles, construction/woodworking, tinkering and book nook. Using real materials and real tools, young makers can explore art, textiles, construction and woodworking, tinkering and gadgets, and a variety of materials, techniques and projects. There’s something for all ages, though best for children ages 5 and older.
“Children have an amazing sense of play, imagination, discovery, creativity and problem solving,” said Sheri Cifaldi-Morrill, the museum’s director of exhibit design and delivery. “When given simple materials, their ideas are brought to life. Just think about how much fun children have with a simple cardboard box at home. We are excited to host Mega Making at Stepping Stones, once again, because the exhibit sparks imaginations and encourages creative experimentation and play.”
The museum is also introducing a new theme each week with related indoor and outdoor activities that will keep children active and learning all summer long. Themes include:
- July 11 – July 17: Ancient Civilizations
- July 18 – July 24: Animals
- July 25 – July 31: Elements
- Aug. 1 – Aug. 7: Summer Olympics
- Aug. 8 – Aug. 14: Dinosaurs
- Aug. 15 – Aug. 21: Renaissance Fair
- Aug. 22 – Aug. 28: Astronomy
- Aug. 29 – Sept. 5: Simple Machines
Click here for more information about MegaSummer at Stepping Stones Museum.
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