The BIG Little Science Centre in Kamloops is more than just a place to visit—it’s a destination where science comes alive for people of all ages. Founded in 2000 by Gordon R. Gore, a retired science teacher with a passion for interactive learning, the Centre offers a unique opportunity to explore scientific concepts through hands-on activities, educational programs, and community events. Its mission is clear: to ignite curiosity and foster a lifelong interest in science. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply someone who enjoys learning, the BIG Little Science Centre provides an experience that is both enriching and fun.
The Hands-On Room: A Playground for Curiosity
The main event of the BIG Little Science Centre is its hands-on room, a space filled with over 140 interactive activity stations. It is designed to engage visitors in self-guided exploration and invite you to experiment with concepts like magnetism, air pressure, forces, and motion.
At each station, visitors can interact with materials and tools that demonstrate scientific principles in action. Children can “play” their way into understanding how things work, while adults and older students may find themselves asking deeper questions like, “Why does this happen?” or “How does this work?” The Centre’s goal isn’t to overwhelm with facts but to spark curiosity and encourage discovery.
Staff and volunteers are on hand to offer guidance and answer questions, ensuring that every visitor leaves with a greater appreciation for the wonders of science. This space exemplifies the Centre’s commitment to making science accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Interactive Demonstrations and Exhibits
Beyond its hands-on room, the BIG Little Science Centre offers dynamic demonstrations that explore topics like light and colour, air pressure, and forces in motion. These interactive sessions are engaging for audiences of all ages and often involve audience participation.
One popular demonstration focuses on air pressure, using rockets and other props to illustrate its effects. Another explores the properties of light and colour, showing how light interacts with materials to create shadows, reflections, and vibrant patterns. These demonstrations are a highlight of any visit, leaving participants with a deeper understanding of everyday science.
Educational Programming for Schools and Families
The BIG Little Science Centre has developed an impressive array of educational programs that cater to students of all ages. These programs align with British Columbia’s curriculum and offer hands-on experiences that bring classroom lessons to life.
School groups can choose from topics like biology, chemistry, physics, geology, and astronomy. Younger students might enjoy activities like building marshmallow bridges or experimenting with bird bills to learn about adaptation and ecosystems. Older students can tackle more advanced topics, such as chemical reactions or robotics, providing a hands-on complement to their classroom learning.
The Centre’s primary and intermediate programs are available at the facility or can be brought to schools, making it a flexible resource for educators. For homeschool families, the Centre offers weekly and monthly classes that cater to children in kindergarten through grade 10. These sessions are designed to be interactive and adaptable, ensuring a rewarding experience for all participants.
Summer Camps and Robotics Clubs
Summer at the BIG Little Science Centre is a time of creativity and discovery. The Centre’s camps are designed to engage children in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) activities. Camps are tailored to different age groups and interests, from robotics and coding to hands-on science experiments.
For example, younger campers can explore the properties of water, build structures with marshmallows and spaghetti, or learn about the life cycles of pond organisms. Older participants might dive into robotics, using Lego Mindstorms to build and program their own creations. These camps not only educate but also inspire children to think critically and creatively.
The Robotics Club extends these opportunities year-round. Open to children aged nine and up, the club allows participants to design, build, and program robots to solve challenges. It’s a fun way to develop problem-solving skills while exploring the exciting world of technology.
Science Camps and Workshops
The Centre’s commitment to education extends to its robust lineup of camps and workshops. In addition to its summer offerings, the Centre hosts winter day camps and specialized workshops throughout the year. Topics range from chemistry and physics to creative design and engineering.
These programs are designed to be both educational and entertaining, blending scientific principles with hands-on activities. For example, participants might create chemical reactions, build model volcanoes, or explore the mechanics of simple machines. These sessions foster critical thinking and collaboration, making them a valuable resource for families and educators.
Membership Benefits
A membership to the BIG Little Science Centre offers year-round access to its exhibits and programs, along with additional perks. Members receive free admission to the hands-on room, discounts on camps and events, and guest passes for friends and family. Membership also includes access to the Canadian Association of Science Centres’ reciprocal program, which provides discounts or free entry to other science centres across Canada.
For families and individuals who love learning, a membership is an affordable way to enjoy the Centre’s offerings while supporting its mission. Proceeds from memberships help fund educational programs and maintain the Centre’s facilities, ensuring that it remains a valuable resource for the community.
Community Impact and Volunteerism
The BIG Little Science Centre is deeply rooted in the Kamloops community, thanks in large part to the efforts of its dedicated volunteers. Each year, volunteers donate thousands of hours to keep the Centre running smoothly. Their contributions range from staffing the hands-on room to assisting with events and programs.
The Centre also plays a vital role in the broader community, hosting events like the Science Lecture Series and the annual Robotics Competition. These events bring people together to learn, share ideas, and celebrate the wonders of science. The Centre’s impact extends beyond its walls, fostering a culture of curiosity and innovation in Kamloops and beyond.
A Destination for All Ages
Whether you’re a parent looking for an engaging outing, a teacher seeking a hands-on learning experience for your students, or simply someone with a curiosity for science, the BIG Little Science Centre has something to offer. Its welcoming environment, interactive exhibits, and diverse programming make it a place where people of all ages can explore, learn, and have fun.
From the hands-on room to the Robotics Club, every aspect of the Centre is designed to spark curiosity and foster a love of learning. Its commitment to accessibility ensures that everyone, regardless of age or ability, can participate and benefit from its offerings.
Plan Your Visit
The BIG Little Science Centre is open Tuesday through Saturday, offering ample opportunities to explore its exhibits and programs. Admission fees are affordable, with discounts available for seniors, children, and families. Annual memberships provide additional value and support the Centre’s mission.
A visit to the BIG Little Science Centre is an experience that’s both educational and enjoyable. It’s a place where science comes to life, sparking curiosity and inspiring discovery in everyone who walks through its doors.
