Try Gifting Outside the Box!
My mom was an avid reader and instilled in me a love for books from the start, literally. She got my name, Timshel, from John Steinbeck’s East of Eden. Not only do I adore reading, but I worked at a…
Everyday STEM for the Family!
During these challenging times, the traditional educational model has been turned on its head, and many parents are thinking about what they can do to supplement their child’s education. Whether that education is virtual, in person, or a mix of…
Virginia’s Hurricane History
Hurricanes used to sneak up on us. Although some sailors and weather watchers could tell when storms were getting close, for the most part, they were a surprise. Because of that, hurricanes (with maximum sustained surface winds of 74 mph…
5 Science Terms to Know Now
The spread of COVID-19 has turned our daily lives upside down, leaving us with a terrible feeling of uncertainty – made worse by misinformation that seems to spread even faster than the virus. Explaining social distancing and stay-at-home orders to…
Understanding Climate Change
This year marks the fiftieth anniversary of Earth Day. For five decades, engaged neighbors have come together to show their support for protecting our planet for future generations. Earth Day themes have focused on such wide-ranging topics as inefficient cars,…
Savor the Science of Eating Bugs
At the start of the new year when people consider changing their eating habits, they are probably thinking about subtracting elements – like carbs, sugar, and processed foods – instead of adding protein sources. But there is some interesting science…
Last-Minute Tech/STEM Gifts
This holiday season, as you roam the physical and digital aisles of stores, the number of STEM items has increased exponentially. Some toys are fads that have little learning value, but other toys are fun and educational and worth a…
Super Science-y Gift Guide
Playful learning and curiosity is a natural part of growing up. If scientists weren’t curious – and didn’t have someone in their formative years supporting that curiosity – we wouldn’t know half of what we do about the world today.…
All About Cyberbullying
Five years ago, a stranger began posting detailed descriptions of my appearance online. This person had strong opinions about me. Once I discovered the posts, I was hooked; I would refresh the application every few minutes to see if this…
Feelin’ Hot, Hot, Hot in Richmond
With any luck, your family’s summer has been packed with the best our area has to offer: swimming in the James River, casual walks around Hollywood Cemetery and Maymont, checking out the latest blooms at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, or…
