A Different SPIN on Learning Physics
How would you like to give your kids a head start for their future studies in physics? Then gas up your car, and head to the SPIN exhibit at the Tellus Museum.
All three of my girls (5-year-old twins and an 8-year-old) were able to learn their first concepts of physics through play in the exhibit, which is especially appealing for ages 2-8. We left knowing some new words, such as centrifuge, inertia and torque.
The exhibit was divided into several different substations with interactive activities. Signs at all of the stations explain the physics concept as it relates to the activity. The spin speed activity, for example, had the kids sit in a swivel chair and spin around to learn more about inertia. There were also racing rollers, air thrusters and racing cars.
The most popular activity was the Human Centrifuge ride. The kids (and some adults) sit down in a ride that is similar to the teacups ride at Disneyworld, spin around in a circle and learn different aspects of inertia. My twins could not get enough of this ride! In fact, they wanted to make a second visit to the exhibit after we viewed other parts of the museum.
Parents will appreciate that this exhibit has STEM activities that involve real-life objects that rotate.
Know before you go: The museum is about a 50-minute drive from the north metro area, and the museum is easy to spot from I-75. The cafeteria has affordable food options as well as picnic areas.
– Cindy Moss