STEAM Saturday’z :: A Hidden Gem
I just discovered a hidden gem! If you’re looking for a few kid-free hours on a Saturday and want your kids to be doing something that’s actually enriching instead of staring at a screen, STEAM Saturday’z with the Nanan is it.
My kids attended this event in June and had a great time. They came home with an Art Bot they built themselves using a pool noodle, an electric toothbrush, rubber bands, and markers. They were so excited to show me how it worked and it provided hours of entertainment after we got home. They also enjoyed hands-on engineering activities, building with popsicle sticks, and making new friends. Even though the rainy weather didn’t allow for them to play outside, they still did plenty of movement (I know, because they slept well that night).
Before we even got home, they were asking when they could go back. When I told my oldest it’s offered every month, he looked at me incredulously and said, “Then why have you never brought me before?!”
I tend to be a little bit critical of kids events because of my experience as an educator, so I really appreciated that this event encouraged my kids to think critically, be curious, and develop their problem-solving skills. Although they learned a lot, it didn’t feel like school to them–they had a blast. It actually made them want to try more science experiments at home.
My kids weren’t the only ones who loved it. As a busy mom of two, having four hours of time to myself on a Saturday afternoon is rare and beautiful. I don’t have to explain that. Y’all get it. And at $30 (including lunch) it’s more affordable than a babysitter.
If you have kids ages 4–14, I definitely would recommend giving it a try. It’s four hours of hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) activities led by Darchelle Tholmer, an experienced educator, children’s author, and founder of The Nânân Childcare with more than 30 years of experience creating joyful learning experiences for kids.
The next STEAM Saturday’z will take place on July 18th, from noon-4:00. They are located in New Orleans East at 7033 Read Blvd, and take place monthly. Upcoming dates include August 15, September 19, October 17, November 21, and December 16. You can register on their website.
What are your favorite options for drop off children’s activities in New Orleans? Leave a comment and let me know!
