In honor of the National Science Foundation’s 75th anniversary, the University of Rhode Island (URI) is hosting a special event designed to inspire the next generation of scientists. The celebration, called Inspiring Future Scientists through Media: Celebrating Collaborations between the National Science Foundation and PBS KIDS, will take place on Saturday, May 10, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the URI DeChristofaro Center for Biotechnology and Life Sciences. The event is free and open to the public.
This family-friendly event is tailored for children ages 4 to 10, along with their families and caregivers. It aims to highlight the important work behind creating educational media and how it can impact children’s success both in school and in life.
Attendees will have the opportunity to meet beloved characters from PBS KIDS shows, including Elinor and Ari from Elinor Wonders Why, Zadie and Zeke from Work It Out Wombats!, Splash and Bubbles, and Molly from Molly of Denali. Kids can also participate in interactive activities, digital games, and enjoy screenings of PBS KIDS shows. Educational experts from PBS KIDS, GBH, Jim Henson Co., and Shoe Ink will also be on hand to share insights on their research and development efforts.
Sara Sweetman, URI associate professor of elementary and environmental education, and event organizer, emphasized the importance of understanding the process behind creating educational media for children. “I’ve seen firsthand how the NSF and PBS KIDS collaborations have positively impacted children and communities,” Sweetman said. “This event will offer a behind-the-scenes look at this impactful work and help families better understand the value of educational programming.”
PBS KIDS is known for its research-based approach to content development, supporting children’s learning across a wide range of subjects. Through its collaborations with the NSF, PBS KIDS helps expand STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education by creating media that reflects diverse populations, while boosting STEM knowledge and skills in children ages 2 to 10.
Sweetman also noted the mixed messages parents receive about children’s use of digital platforms. While public health officials often warn about screen time, industries encourage digital fluency in future generations. This event will provide an educational framework for understanding how digital media can be a positive tool for learning, rather than just passive entertainment.
Danielle Dennis, dean of URI’s Feinstein College of Education, expressed excitement about showcasing PBS KIDS media at the event. “Both NSF and PBS KIDS play vital roles in shaping education for young children,” she said. “This event is an excellent opportunity for the community to engage with the educational content that PBS KIDS creates.”
The National Science Foundation (NSF) is a federal agency that funds scientific and engineering research across the U.S. Established in 1950, the NSF’s mission is to promote scientific progress and enhance national health and prosperity.
PBS KIDS, the number one educational media brand for kids, believes that every child is full of potential. Through a wide range of media and community-based programs, PBS KIDS fosters curiosity and helps children develop the skills they need to succeed in school and life.
