Overview
Young children become scientists in the new Science + You exhibit as they learn about human health and nutrition, scientific tools and scientists through problem solving, investigation and experimentation. The immersive, open-ended exhibits provide children with opportunities to play, explore, discover and experiment. Ideally suited for a children’s or science museum, the exhibition is complemented by educational materials and activities.
Audience
Science + You is targeted to children ages 3 to 8 and their caregivers, including school groups. The activities maintain enough flexibility to accommodate both individual and group interactions. The exhibit elements are designed to offer safe and inviting experiences for the youngest visitors while offering challenges for older children. Adult caregivers and teachers are addressed specifically through text and graphics which highlight the exhibit’s educational messages.
Exhibit Goals
- To increase global appreciation for the value science brings to improving health.
- To immerse visitors in an interactive environment that encourages investigation, problem solving, analytical thinking and role play focused on the science of health.
- To increase awareness and understanding of the role science and scientists play in the health and wellness of children and adults throughout the world.
- To provide opportunities for visitors to interact with Abbott scientists through related programming.
Key Concepts / Big Ideas
Through play and exploration in the exhibit and associated activities, children and adults will increase their awareness and understanding of the following concepts or BIG ideas.
- Scientists conduct research to discover how to improve human health.
- Scientists use technology and machines to create and innovate.
- Scientists use many different resources to explore and solve problems.
- Science shows us that people need balanced nutrition, exercise and rest to stay healthy.
Advisory Council
Tracy Aleckson
Teacher; Special Education District of Lake County; Lake Villa, IL
Linda Bensing
Certified Child Life Specialist; Advocate Lutheran General Children's Hospital; Park Ridge, IL
Amy Booth, PhD
Professor; Northwestern University, Communication Sciences and Disorders; Evanston, IL
Jason Bussell
President Emeritus; A Center for Oriental Medicine, Illinois Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine; Wilmette, IL
Lisa Cormier, M.D.
Our Lady of Resurrection Hospital Chicago, IL
Deborah Domain
Teacher; Chicago Public Schools; Chicago, IL
Jodi Flax
Microbiologist; College of American Pathologists College of American Pathologists; Northfield, IL
Caryn Friedman, M.Ed.
Elementary and Special Education Teacher; Joseph Sears School; Kenilworth, IL
Deborah Gale
Registered Nurse; Glencoe, IL
Henry Mangurten, M.D.
Advocate Lutheran General Children's Hospital; Park Ridge, IL
Elizabeth Saed
Parent; Northbrook, IL
Lori Walsh, M.D.
Glenbrook Pediatrics; Glenview, IL
Heather Warren, PhD
Assistant Professor, Departments of Pediatrics & Behavioral Sciences; Rush University Rush Neuro Behavioral Center; Chicago, IL
About the Abbott Fund
Abbott Fund invests in creative ideas that promote science, expand access to health care, and strengthen communities worldwide. In partnership with others, we strive to make a lasting impact on people’s lives and encourage others to action. Abbott Fund supports new approaches to learning that are designed to foster a better understanding of science and the value it brings to improving human health.
