This holiday season, the Petroleum Museum’s STEAM Break: School’s Out! program will explore explosive science. The camp will take place Dec. 30, 2024, and Jan. 3, 2025, offering two days of hands-on learning for students in grades 1-6.
“Our theme this year is Explosive Science, and each session is packed with exciting experiments that spark curiosity and creativity,” said Nikki McCurry, the museum’s director of education.
“From rocket launches to volcanic eruptions and chemical reactions, every activity is tailored to be safe, educational, and most importantly, fun,” McCurry added.
Each day features two sessions: morning (8 a.m. to noon) and afternoon (1 to 5 p.m.), with different activities in each.
Students can sign up for one session or all four, ensuring a unique experience every time.
“Our structured sessions keep kids engaged, with rotations through various stations and a major activity anchoring each session,” McCurry said.
Safety is a top priority, with certified educators and trained staff overseeing all activities.
“While students design projects for our laser cutter, our staff handles the operation to ensure safety,” McCurry said. “For tools like hot glue guns, we teach proper handling and supervise closely. Everything we do can be replicated at home, empowering parents and kids to continue learning together.”
McCurry, a former science teacher with 17 years of experience, emphasized the program’s focus on exploration rather than performance.
“We want students to push their boundaries and embrace the joy of discovery without the pressure of grades. It’s all about nurturing their natural curiosity,” she said.
With a student-to-staff ratio of six students per certified teacher and a volunteer assistant, the camp offers personalized attention.
“Our education team is passionate about STEAM,” McCurry said. “We bring in local teachers and volunteers, ensuring students not only learn but also form connections that inspire them to return for future programs.”
Parents can expect their young scientists to bring home projects and instructional sheets from the camp.
“We aim to make the experience memorable and encourage kids to share what they’ve learned with their families,” McCurry said.
Discounts are available for museum members and multi-session registrations. Parents should provide snacks, water bottles, and lunches for full-day participants.