Kids ask questions and take an experiment in learning at Kids Science Labs in Chicago

When looking for science programs near me, parents have found Kids Science Labs in Chicago and Seattle

Our Students encounter liquids everyday, but a often it seems that the liquid just disappears: milk absorbs into cereal, and water from a bath absorbs into a towel. Where does the liquid go? We tested some materials that have the ability to absorb liquids by trapping it inside of pores or small holes. We also observed that not all materials are able to absorb the same amount of liquid. Different materials have different saturation points. For example, a mop can soak up a big spill, but your favorite cereal gets soggy really fast. Today, kids created a tool with absorbent materials to soak up those liquids. At home, ask your child what else they can absorb with their new absorption tool!

STEM learning is available with science programs near me, via Kids Science Labs

Whether we’re opening the refrigerator door or closing the screen of our laptop, hinges are all around us helping our world move! By investigating real objects like the small metal devices in a doorframe that help it to swing open, or the plastic lids on top of the maple syrup bottle that keep the syrup from spilling out, this week our scientists are observing that a hinge is simply something that connects two objects to help them rotate.

• Kids are building real-world connections that even parts of our bodies, like our knees and our elbows, are also hinges, helping us to do things like run fast or swing a tennis racket!

• Through creating hinges from different materials, like bendy straws and popsicle sticks, kids are discovering how the design of a hinge can affect its range of motion.

Core Grade Level Standards for NGSS and the Illinois Science Assessment

Understanding the Illinois Science Assessment by Grade with NGSS

The Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) outline the key science concepts and skills that students should learn at each grade level. These standards are used to guide teaching and assessment in schools, including the Illinois Science Assessment (ISA). By understanding the NGSS expectations, parents can help their children stay on track and succeed in their science education. Below is a breakdown of the NGSS topics covered at each grade level from Kindergarten to 8th grade and an associated article on their relationship to Illinois Science Assessment.

Kindergarten NGSS Expected Science Topics:

At the kindergarten level, the NGSS focuses on building foundational knowledge in science through exploration and observation.

• Physical Science: Understanding basic properties of materials (e.g., what makes things sink or float).

• Life Science: Identifying basic needs of living things and their environments (e.g., plants and animals).

• Earth and Space Science: Observing seasonal changes and weather patterns.

• Engineering and Technology: Using tools and materials to design simple objects.

1st Grade NGSS Expected Science Topics:

In 1st grade, students start to build on their observational skills and begin exploring more complex scientific concepts.

• Physical Science: Understanding how objects move (e.g., speed, direction, and forces like push and pull).

• Life Science: Learning about the life cycle of plants and animals.

• Earth and Space Science: Exploring the properties of light and sound.

• Engineering and Technology: Designing solutions to simple engineering challenges.

2nd Grade NGSS Expected Science Topics:

By 2nd grade, students are introduced to more detailed concepts in life, earth, and physical sciences.

• Physical Science: Exploring matter and its properties (e.g., solids, liquids, and gases).

• Life Science: Learning about plant growth and what plants need to survive.

• Earth and Space Science: Investigating weather patterns and how they change over time.

• Engineering and Technology: Developing and testing simple tools or solutions to problems.

3rd Grade NGSS Expected Science Topics:

Third graders deepen their understanding of the natural world with more complex scientific topics.

• Physical Science: Understanding forces and interactions between objects (e.g., gravity, magnetism).

• Life Science: Learning about ecosystems and the relationships between living organisms.

• Earth and Space Science: Understanding the water cycle and its role in weather patterns.

• Engineering and Technology: Designing solutions to problems related to energy use.

4th Grade NGSS Expected Science Topics:

At the 4th grade level, students explore more detailed scientific principles, with a focus on energy, ecosystems, and Earth's systems.

• Physical Science: Exploring energy forms such as light, sound, and heat.

• Life Science: Studying plant and animal structures and their roles in ecosystems.

• Earth and Space Science: Investigating the Earth's processes, including the rock cycle and Earth's resources.

• Engineering and Technology: Applying the principles of engineering to solve real-world problems.

5th Grade NGSS Expected Science Topics:

In 5th grade, students explore more advanced topics, often requiring a higher level of critical thinking and problem-solving.

• Physical Science: Understanding matter and energy, including properties and changes in matter.

• Life Science: Studying the systems of the human body and how they work together.

• Earth and Space Science: Exploring Earth’s history and the formation of different landforms.

• Engineering and Technology: Investigating technologies and designing solutions to human challenges.

6th NGSS Expected Science Topics:

By the 6th grade, students build on earlier concepts and start to study more complex scientific phenomena.

• Physical Science: Investigating energy, forces, and the relationship between energy and matter.

• Life Science: Understanding ecosystems and the diversity of life.

• Earth and Space Science: Exploring the structure and processes of Earth’s systems.

• Engineering and Technology: Designing experiments to test scientific ideas and solutions.

7th Grade NGSS Expected Science Topics:

Seventh graders dive deeper into biology, chemistry, and Earth science with more specific learning goals.

• Physical Science: Studying atoms and molecules, chemical reactions, and energy transformations.

• Life Science: Learning about heredity, genetic traits, and evolution.

• Earth and Space Science: Investigating Earth's history, including geological processes and plate tectonics.

• Engineering and Technology: Understanding how engineers use scientific principles to solve problems.

8th Grade NGSS Expected Science Topics:

Eighth grade is a critical year where students apply their previous knowledge to more complex scientific and engineering concepts.

• Physical Science: Understanding the structure of matter, forces, and motion.

• Life Science: Exploring the biological systems and the molecular basis of heredity.

• Earth and Space Science: Investigating Earth’s atmosphere, weather, and the solar system.

• Engineering and Technology: Designing and evaluating solutions for real-world problems.

Where can I find a comprehensive guide to Next Generation Science Standards?

For a detailed and comprehensive guide to the Next Generation Science Standards, parents can refer to the official NGSS website here. This site provides an in-depth breakdown of the standards, including performance expectations, assessment guidelines, and instructional strategies for each grade level.

By understanding the key science concepts covered at each grade, parents can help support their children's learning and ensure they are well-prepared for the Illinois Science Assessment and beyond. Here is another article on how to prepare for the Illinois Science Assessment.

“Science is a refinement of Everyday Thinking”

— Albert Einstein

Best Gyms for a Children's Birthday Party in Chicago

Best Gyms for Birthday Parties in Chicago, IL

Planning a memorable children’s birthday party can be a breeze when you choose the right venue. For active, fun-filled celebrations, hosting a party at a gym is a fantastic option. Chicago offers several gyms that specialize in hosting fun birthday parties for kids. Here’s a closer look at three of the best gyms for birthday parties in Chicago: Pow Gym Chicago, Lifetime River North, and The Little Gym. At the end of this blog, you can also check out kid’s birthday party ideas for a DIY birthday party or hosting a exciting volcano birthday party at Kids Science Labs.

Pow Gym Chicago

General Party Information

Pow Gym Chicago is the perfect spot for kids who love action-packed celebrations. This martial arts and fitness-focused gym offers birthday parties designed to get kids moving and having fun while learning new skills. Known for its high-energy environment, Pow Gym creates a unique experience for children of all ages.

Themes

Pow Gym offers customizable themes for their birthday parties, including:

• Ninja Warrior Challenges

• Martial Arts Adventures

• Obstacle Courses and Fitness Fun

Add-ons and Pricing

Parents can add special touches like themed decorations, party favors, and even a live martial arts demonstration. Pricing starts at $350 for a children’s birthday party, with options to extend the duration or add additional activities for an extra fee. Just like children’s birthday party venues in Chicago the focus on fun activities for kids, like those in our previous blog about Kids Science Labs, this party is known to keep kids together while engaging in both the celebration and energy filled activities tht kids love.

What Else?

At Pow Gym, kids will enjoy structured activities like obstacle courses, mini martial arts lessons, and team challenges. The gym is located in the vibrant West Loop area, making it easily accessible. 

Address: 310 S. Racine Ave, Chicago, IL
Website: powgymchicago.com

Lifetime River North is a good Children’s Birthday Party Venue

General Party Information

Lifetime River North combines fun activities for kids with a grand birthday celebration. This family-friendly fitness center is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and offers birthday packages that cater to a wide range of interests.

Themes

Themes at Lifetime River North include:

• Sports Extravaganza

• Swimming Pool Parties

• Dance and Zumba Parties

Add-ons and Pricing

Add-ons like catering, party decorations, and personalized goody bags are available. Party packages start at $400 for up to 10 children, with additional charges for extra guests or premium add-ons.

What Else?

Activities at Lifetime include organized sports games, swimming, and interactive fitness challenges. The River North location is conveniently situated in downtown Chicago.  If you are looking for similar children’s activities for a kid’s birthday party, you can find them here.

Address: 111 W. Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL
Website: lifetime.life

The Little Gym of Chicago is one of them well balanced children’s birthday party places

General Party Information

The Little Gym is a beloved choice for parents seeking a safe, fun, and interactive birthday party experience. Specializing in child-friendly gymnastics and creative play, this gym ensures kids have a blast while staying active.

Themes

The Little Gym’s themed parties include:

• Princess and Pirates Adventure

• Superheroes in Training

• Classic Gymnastics Fun

Add-ons and Pricing

Each party includes a dedicated instructor, exclusive use of the facility, and a structured activity plan. Pricing starts at $375 for up to 15 children, with additional options for themes, decorations, and party favors.

What Else?

Kids at The Little Gym can enjoy games, gymnastics, and creative play activities tailored to their age group. Located in Lincoln Park, this gym also offers year-round classes in gymnastics, dance, and parent-and-tot programs. If you ultimately decide to do science experiments at home or a DIY birthday party, check out this list of top birthday party ideas for a kids birthday party.

Address: 3216 N. Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL
Website: thelittlegym.com

Other Locations for Birthday Parties in Chicago

If you're exploring more options for gyms for birthday parties in Chicago, check out these venues:

• Kids Science Labs Chicago: The #1 kids birthday party place in Chicago for science birthday parties that both kids and parents love

• Altitude Trampoline Park: Perfect for sports kids who love to jump and play.

• Museum of Science and Industry: a large destination to explore science and technology.

• Goldfish Swim School: exciting birthday party for swimming-themed birthday celebrations.

If a gym or sports themed party is not your jam, and you have yet to experience a birthday party at one of the convenient locations of Kids Science Labs, we would love to have the opportunity to host your party at Kids Science Labs. You can find more information below about a kid’s birthday party experience that will be memorable and exciting for you and. your guests.