DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — The Children's Museum of Illinois is giving kids the opportunity to see what it takes to be an astronaut while learning all about space through interactive experiences. First and second graders had the chance to enter astronaut training to learn what it takes to be able to explore outer space.
Jami Fawley, the Director of Education and Outreach for the Children's Museum of Illinois said, "It supports the curriculum that they are getting at the schools, but also explores it in a new, fun, exciting way. So today they will be learning a little bit of science and some other fun things about space."
While the camp is keeping kids interested by teaching fun topics, they are also learning important lessons that will help them as they return to school this year. The camp is focusing on math and science concepts that the kids will need to know as they complete their school lessons.
"I think anytime that a kid is able to learn about something they are excited about, they absorb it better. So even if they're learning math concepts, but they're counting planets, sometimes the adding a fun element to it makes the lesson stick a little better," explained Fawley.
The camp focused on three elements of what it takes to be an astronaut. The kids were able to learn about physical fitness by taking their pulse and comparing their results based on different amounts of physical activity. Students were able to see what astronauts eat in space and even try a space dinner and dessert.
The final task involved a simulated space suit experience that had students complete tasks like picking up cups and solving puzzles.
"One element that we are able to bring into the classroom is the gloves, and so they have to do some challenges with the gloves on to see what it might be like in space," said Fawley.
In addition to learning important lessons and getting hands on experience in astronaut training camp, the kids were able to see some familiar faces and make new friends. District 61 instructors are teaching the courses at the camp, giving campers the opportunity to see some of their teachers.
"They may have seen this teacher at school, they may have other friends that they haven't seen all summer who are in the camp, and they're meeting new friends."
The camp is encouraging kids to shoot for the stars as they learn more about outer space. Space camp is continuing this week, and the sky lab will even be at the museum allowing the kids to get a unique view.
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