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RYE, N.Y. -- Children watched as Professor Bob released a magnetized metal ball onto a track, and when it collided with four others the magnetic force propelled the oppositely polarized ball at the other end with a loud clack!
"That was the coolest part," said Lucas Cannizano, 12, a day camper at the Rye YMCA from Harrison.
The Westchester Children's Museum put on two, hour-long science programs on magnetism this week at the Y as part of its educational outreach program "Museum Without Walls."
Children registered with the Rye YMCA's Vacation Day Camp learned about how magnets work and got some hands-on experience experimenting with magnetic materials. Bob Meyer of Pelham led the program, introducing himself to the children as "Professor Bob." Meyer has been teaching interactive science programs at birthday parties for 20 years and taught high school earth science for 18 years. "I like to present them with an idea and give them the materials to let them explore," said Meyer. At the moment, the Westchester Children's Museum remains rooted in outreach programs. However, it was recently granted a lease at Rye Playland's North Bathhouse, where it will provide a space for children throughout the county to learn and interact with educational exhibits.
It may take as long as two years to complete the museum, but the WCM's outreach programs will continue bringing learning programs to children at schools and community centers. Lucas said his favorite subject in school is science and that he hopes to learn more about chemistry and mechanics.
"I like learning about how things work," he said.
Has your child participated in a Museum Without Walls program?
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