Fun Freetime: SciGirls

Twin Cities Public Television has been selected to receive a $2.7 million grant from the National Science Foundation to create a new season of SciGirls. The nationally broadcast PBS series SciGirls has engaged millions of girls, ages 9-13 in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), and is what Parenting magazine calls “cool stuff” and the New York Times says makes science “downright enjoyable.”

 

SciGirls’ third season focuses on the newest frontier in science education – engaging kids to do real scientific research, or citizen science.  Citizen science projects worldwide engage tens of thousands of ordinary people in innovative research, aiding scientists to make observations, gather data and investigate our world. Working with leading experts in citizen science at Cornell University, season three of SciGirls will follow groups of real middle school girls on exciting adventures working with female scientists conducting citizen science projects nationwide.  This ground-breaking project builds on NSF’s multi-year investment in SciGirls and various citizen science initiatives, and addresses the critical need to encourage more women to pursue STEM careers.

I've watched some episodes with my older daughter, who loves it, even though she's only 6, a little below the target range. Episodes use a combination of animated and live action scenes, and has the feel of a reality show. On the website you and your kids can watch episodes, play games, find projects, and much more.

The mission of tpt is to “enrich lives and strengthen our community through the power of media.” As one of the nation’s leading public media organizations, tpt uses television, interactive media, and community engagement to advance education, culture and citizenship. The organization's particular areas of focus include: the educational readiness of children; serving the needs and unleashing the potential of America's aging population; engaging a new generation in the power of public media; and being the preferred media partner for organizations that align with our mission to enrich lives and strengthen community. For more information about tpt, visit them on Facebook and Twitter.