June 24, 2025

Hope Street's Summer of Science: Igniting young minds, one experiment at a time!

Hope Street Margolis Family Center's Summer of Science program helps over 100 children explore STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) subjects and careers.

The first week of the Summer of Science at Hope Street Margolis Family Center launched with a burst of excitement, creativity and hands-on learning—igniting young minds with the power of science, technology and engineering. The fully enrolled program welcomed over 100 children from across the community, all eager to explore, experiment and engage with the world around them!

Summer of Science students participating in the balloon drop experiment The theme for the opening week centered on scientific inquiry and building a strong foundation in both STEM and the arts—setting the tone for a summer filled with curiosity and discovery. From the very first day, students were immersed in dynamic, project-based learning experiences that combined critical thinking, teamwork and creativity.

One of the week’s highlights was a thrilling balloon drop challenge, where student teams engineered protective devices to prevent water balloons from bursting after being dropped from a height. Armed with only basic materials and their imaginations, students learned essential principles of gravity, force, motion and structural engineering. Equally important, they strengthened communication and collaboration skills—core elements in both science and life.

Another favorite was the marshmallow tower challenge, where children explored basic architectural and engineering concepts by Students participating in the marshmallow tower challenge building freestanding towers from sticks and marshmallows. Through trial and error, they learned the value of stability, design thinking, and perseverance, all while having a blast bringing their architectural visions to life. Some students also learned about teamwork through having to use strings to move and stack cups.

To bring color and creativity into the week, students also took part in a vibrant tie-dye shirt project, where they explored color mixing, patterns, and the chemical interactions of dyes on fabric. Not only did each child get to take home a personalized shirt, but they also learned how art and science intersect in everyday life—sparking pride and wonder with every swirl of color.
To top it all off, the week wrapped up with a traditional opening BBQ at Griffith Park, where students and staff came together for a day of fun, food, and friendship. The park was alive with laughter and connection laying the groundwork for a summer of meaningful relationships and transformative learning.

Week one of the Summer of Science proved what we already knew: when you give young people access to opportunity, creativity and support, they rise.

Summer of Science is 100% supported by generous donors like you. Support Hope Street’s transformative health care programs by donating today or by attending the Champions for Children Dinner on Wednesdsay, October 8 at Jonathan Club. To learn more, visit HopeStreetFamilyCenter.org.