Maker Studio offers a variety of options for teenagers to swing by and try something new
Teenagers looking for something to do on weekday afternoons are in luck — Science World's Maker Studio in the Tinkering Space: WorkSafeBC Gallery offers a unique opportunity to try their hand at something new. Seen a cool new project on TikTok? See if you can learn the skills at any one of our drop-in sessions using tools such as the Cricut smart cutting machines.
Best of all, Maker Studio participation is included in the price of Science World admission, so all you have to do is check out the website for each month’s activity, dates, times and details then join us! Plus, you get to take home what you make!
But this is about more than sewing a pouch or making a sticker. Coming along to Maker Studio can also help teens entering the workforce, by teaching them vital practices.
“We're creating an environment where [participants] are encouraged to ask us questions,” says Hilary Foster-Wilson, Experiential Learning Specialist, Tinkering and Play. “They're encouraged to say something if it doesn't feel quite right.
“For young people, when they get into their first job and there's something that might be new to them — like, there's some sort of equipment they're being asked to use, for example — it won’t be the first time they’re in a new situation, using a new tool. They hopefully know to ask questions, because they've already practiced.”
And they get that practice through using any of the hands-on tools in Tinkering as part of Maker Studio sessions. As Dr. Sandy Eix, Director of STEAM learning, points out, “If you've learned to safely approach a laser cutter, you can learn to safely approach a deep fryer, or a forklift, or electronic repairs, right? We’re building that muscle of agency and ‘I know how to learn a new thing.’”
Upcoming Maker Studios include seasonal activities such as sewing pouches. “The idea being that the holidays are coming up and people could wrap little trinkets in the pouches,” says Hilary. “And we're doing watercolor cards in December so that participants can make cards for people. And in January, we're making space rovers to pair with Artemis Space Adventure with LEGO® Bricks, presented by White Spot Restaurantsand then in February, we're going to make little seedling pots to prepare for spring.”
“So grab your friends and come down together,” adds Hilary. “Try something new!”
With extended opening hours allowing for more opportunities to explore Science World, there’s never been a better time to tinker in the Maker Studio.
