Discover & Go At-Home – California Academy of Science

Submitted by CCCL_DesireeC

One of my favorite elementary school field trips was to the California Academy of Sciences. Located in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, this museum features an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history hall. When I first learned about the library’s Discover&Go program and realized I could possibly reserve a discounted ticket to the Academy, I immediately planned a day to take my son.

For the last several months, the Academy was closed due to the pandemic. They recently opened for in person visits again, but are not yet offering Discover & Go passes. However, I can still introduce my son to the wonders of the Academy through their Academy@Home resources. These include glimpses into science that will attract curious minds of all ages, but some of my go-to ones for kiddos are:

• Animal Webcams - Watching the live penguin cam proves to be one of our favorite, but there are also live videos of reef exhibits in the aquarium and the Farallon Islands.
• Science Films for the Classroom - Originally shown inside the planetarium, these films have been reformatted to view at home. We liked this short one that takes us for a Dive in a Kelp Forest.
• Activities Using Household Materials - Curated lists of easy-to-follow learning activities categorized by grade level. For my little one who loves playing games this Go Bug! Activity is perfect!
• Learning Resources for Students at Home provides sample lesson plans connected to all kinds of science topics and for all different grade levels. Since my son is really into anything having to do with outer space, he’s having a great time exploring the science lessons for 2^nd-3^rd graders, such as Sorting Through the Solar System.

Whether your child is into outer space, the rainforest, or the ocean, you’ll find activities to bring it all to life. And if you’re looking for more ideas for hands-on science at home, check out some titles with great science experiment ideas!

During October Contra Costa County Library is celebrating Discover & Go Month with fun virtual programs, a trivia quiz for a chance to win prizes and the opportunity to support the Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano.