Alas, the "summer slide" isn't playground fun—it’s the seasonal dip in academic skills. Students often lose ground in science and math because hands-on learning usually takes a vacation when school is out.

Citizen science—real science that anyone of any age can do—is one antidote. The projects featured in this newsletter include educator-tested materials, because research shows that when projects are designed to support learning, the science improves, too!

Cheers!

The SciStarter Team

Light pollution—excess artificial light that brightens the night sky—makes it harder to see stars and disrupts ecosystems. Learn about constellations and energy consumption while documenting local light pollution.

Location: Global

From a computer or tablet, analyze real blood samples from rhesus macaques to help scientists study health and behavior. The project’s learning materials explore cell biology, genetics, and how data is used to understand social animals—including humans.

Location: Global

No matter where you are in the world, identify animals photographed on Wisconsin trail cameras to help with conservation science. Learn about ecosystems, food webs, and species behavior with classroom-ready lesson plans for all ages.

Location: Global

The First Kids in Space project invites learners ages 5–12 to share their big ideas and space dreams by answering three simple questions. Responses power a digital word cloud and inspire future explorers. Includes a free activity book and online learning tools.

Location: Global

OpenStreetMap is a free, editable map used globally for planning and disaster relief. Mapping your community is a fun way to practice geography, spatial thinking, and data skills this summer. Plus, they have materials for educators!

Location: Global