Discovery Space Experiences

Children's Discovery has developed an extensive range of specialty expertise in the design, development and production of interactive, educational experiences. Many of these can be found in permanent facilities, such as the Early Start Discovery Space in Wollongong, Australia. Others appear at festivals and events around the world.

Kids Dig

 - simulated archaeological (and sometime paleontological) experience

Kids Dig is a simulated archaeological dig experience where visitors assume the role of scientist, archaeologist or other investigative specialty. Prior to entry onto the site, participants are given an induction about working safety on site and how to work systematically in carefully excavating objects (finds) from the site.

Authentic tools and equipment are available for each participant to excavate and retrieve objects. They then move to the ‘ID Tent’ to investigate their finds and make more detailed records (measurements and other key characteristics) of their objects on the Finds Records Sheets and making reference to the on-site field notes and museum.

The group will come together for a final review, describing some of their finds. We propose some hypotheses about human habitation of the site based on the evidence found and recorded.

A variety of 'back-stories' can be created for the site, and artefacts selected to reflect the possibility of an ancient people, place or activity. From pre-historic foundries to early settlements, we taylor Kids Dig to the interests of the venue.

NEW: Kids Dino Dig is our paleontological experinece - same idea, but with GIANT BONES and a gantry crane to move them!

Learning outcomes:

• Archaeology is a science involving the systematic collection, classification, testing and comparing materials as evidence for past human activity, culture and history.
• Human ingenuity is not a new phenomenon; there is evidence of great science and technologies going back 5000 years and longer.
• Modern scientific techniques help us understand the past as well as providing solutions to current and future needs.

Examples of Kids Dig in action

 KidsFest, Shellharbour, New South Wales, Australia 

 Sasol Scifest, Grahamstown, South Africa

 Abu Dhabi Science Festival

 Qasr Al Hosn Festival, Abu Dhabi

Build It

 - simulated house construction and fit-out experience

Build It is a simulated house construction experience where participants assume the role of architect, interior designer, brick layer, plumber, paver and other professions and trades involved in house construction. Entering via the site office where site safety induction occurs; all participants don safety vest, hard hats and grab their tools before getting to work.

Participants can make use of the Architects and Interior Design workstations – explore alternative house plans and design elements with magnetic vinyl cutouts of walls, floors, plumbing, fixtures and fittings applied to the floor plan. This can also be replicated electronically with Tablets.

Learning outcomes:

• House construction relies on a number of STEM-related professions and trades.
• Architects rely on physical science and engineering to ensure houses are safe and provide long-term shelter.
• Designers rely on their understanding of human psychology and materials.
• Specific trades need STEM knowledge; bricklayers understand forces and plumbers know about fluid dynamics.

Examples of Build It in action

 Wodonga Children's Fair

Abu Dhabi Science Festival