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December 2019
From the Executive Director
The Season of Giving

Last week we announced a significant gift of $10 million towards Northern Virginia’s future science center made by our long-time partner and supporter, Northwest Federal Credit Union . While it is technically a gift to the science center, it is actually a gift to the community, families and educators in our region.

This gift in addition to significant commitments made by the Commonwealth of Virginia and Loudoun County fulfill 85% of the funds needed for the future regional science center. Each of these partners seeks to inspire our larger community to join this effort and bring the project over the finish line in 2020, so that we can break ground in 2021.

As you consider giving this season, we hope you will choose to support our mission today and vision for the future! Every gift, both large and small, makes a big difference in our efforts to inspire a love of learning STEM for children, families and schools across our region.

Nene
Adelene "Nene" Spivy
Executive Director
New at the Bar!
Candy Cane Slime
In December at the Experiment Bar we will be experimenting with a seasonal favorite: Candy Cane Slime! Explore and create not one, but TWO types of polymers, oil and plastic. Then twist them together to create your own take home (non-edible) candy cane.

Check out the calendar of events for information on what's happening at the Lab all month long including our Critter Chitter Chatter and Budding programs that take place in the Lab on a regular basis.
Holiday Hours
Tuesday, December 24, Christmas Eve: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Wednesday, December 25, Christmas: Closed
Tuesday, December 31, New Year's Eve: Timed-entry only
Wednesday, January 1, New Year's Day: Open 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Last chance to sign up
Drop the kids off for a night of fun!
New Year's Eve Around the World
A Celebration for the whole family!

We understand that staying up until Midnight is a bit of a stretch when you have young kids! Come to the Lab to celebrate at a time that works for your young family. With three, 2-hour time slots to choose from, your family can enjoy all the fun of New Year's Eve without the late night!

Ring in 2020 in STEM style with kid-engineered noise makers and confetti throwers for a celebration your whole family can enjoy! Due to the popularity of this event, preregistration is required as space is limited.

10:00 am - 12:00 pm - New Year's Countdown at 11:00 am
 
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm - New Year's Countdown at 2:00 pm
 
3:30 pm - 5:30 pm - New Year's Countdown at 5:00 pm
Winter Break Camps!
December 26 and 27
January 2 and 3
Looking for fun and engaging activities for your child while school is out? Look no further than our Single Day Camps

Thursday, December 26 -

Wednesday, December 27 -

Thursday, January 2 -

Friday, January 3 -

Designed for children in grades K through 5. Camps run from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm with after-care available for an additional charge.
Donor Spotlight
Natalie Lorenz-Anderson
Natalie Lorenz-Anderson learned about the Children's Science Center through her involvement with Girl Scouts of the Nation’s Capital and Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. After attending the 2017 Founders Society luncheon, Natalie was inspired to join the Founders Society with a multi-year pledge commitment. Each year, Natalie fulfills her pledge to the Center through her Donor-Advised Fund, a philanthropic giving vehicle providing immediate tax benefits.
 
“I receive hundreds of solicitations from nonprofits each year. Giving through my donor-advised fund allows me to stay focused on organizations which mean the most to me.” The ease of scheduling annual contributions combined with the environmental impact of less paper solicitations makes utilizing a DAF a “no-brainer.” Natalie encourages other Center supporters to research if a Donor-Advised Fund or other Qualified Charitable Distribution vehicle could help align their philanthropic and financial priorities. To learn more, contact Advancement Manager Gigi Bennett or visit the National Philanthropic Trust’s DAF information webpage.
Try it Home!
Frozen Bubbles

Have you ever tried  blowing bubbles  outside on a really cold day? What do you think would happen to the bubbles? Try this project to see bubbles freeze right in your kitchen and then move outside to test further!
The Children's Science Center is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization and your gifts directly support our mission and programs.