Is your child a budding scientist? Would you like to cultivate those STEM skills in some fun extra murals? There are a couple of options that you can investigate in South Africa, and I thought I would share them in one place in this post.
Benefits of science extra murals
There are two main benefits of science after school / extra mural programs.
- Improved academics. These activities actually foster motivation and interest in mathematical and scientific subjects, according to this site.
- Improved social and emotional well being – this is because as they are learning a new skill, it improves their self confidence.
Looking for a science extra mural in South Africa? Here are some suggestions.
Experi Buddies
Nicky enjoyed doing Experi Buddies during his school day at preschool back when we were in Joburg. They got to don white coats and do all sorts of experiments. Each week parents received a piece of paper all about what they had done that week and an experiment to do at home. There are people all over doing this, but the lady we worked with in Joburg, her name is Jakomien and you can contact her on 0823303890. Her flyer is here:
I clearly remember doing the volcano experiment.
Experibuddies also runs programs in the holidays, and you can read an example here on Judy’s blog, where they ran one about sharks.
Little Scientists
When Nicky wanted to do a science party, I enlisted the help of this group. They run both parties and after school labs.
Little Scientists is based in Northriding, Johannesburg. So they can come to you if your party is in Johannesburg. But they are also able to post all the stuff to you so that you can use it to make your own experimental party. This is the option I chose. I then also just needed to get my own aprons and one of the chemicals that wasn’t safe to travel (hydrogen peroxide).
I did two experiments: a rocket (which also involved me getting a whole lot of plastic bottles and cutting them right) as well as Elephant’s toothpaste. This was a lot of fun and a really memorable party.
Curious Cubs
This one is recommended by South African mom blogger Jaclyn over at Cape Town Mommy. “My daughter is doing Curious Cubs extra mural at her school and is thoroughly enjoying it. They cater for kids between ages 4 and 9 and they do practical experiments which teach kids about scientific concepts in a fun and easy to understand way.”
CodeaBot
If robotics and coding are your thing, this organisation may help. I haven’t got personal experience of them but they did have after school and holiday programs. Check out their website and contact them for details. They are in PE / GQ.
Do you know any other science extra murals or science after school programs? Comment below with your experiences and I’ll add them to the post.
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