BASF Returns to the Royal Ontario Museum for Chemistry Week
BASF is delighted to announce its return to the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) for another year of National Chemistry Week celebrations. This event marks the third year of their collaborative efforts aimed at promoting STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) education among youth. The partnership reaffirms BASF's commitment to making science engaging for students and families alike.
Exciting Experiments at the BASF Kids’ Lab
This year, the highlight of the BASF Kids’ Lab will feature an inspiring experiment titled “The Chromatography Butterfly.” Children and their families can expect to dive into science by using coffee filters, felt-tip markers, and water to create vibrant butterfly designs, all while learning about the fascinating process of chromatography.Through this hands-on activity, participants not only experiment with art but also grasp important scientific concepts that illustrate how pigments separate.
Weekend Fun for Museum Visitors
The BASF Kids’ Lab will operate in the ROM’s Makerspace Hub over two weekends. Families can join in on the fun on selected dates throughout October, with activities available from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. What's more, access to the Kids’ Lab is included with general admission to the museum, making it an accessible option for families eager to explore the wonders of science.
Welcoming Local Students for Unique Learning Opportunities
BASF is also excited to extend this opportunity by welcoming around 650 grade 3 and 4 students from multiple schools across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) through ROM’s School Visits program. This initiative highlights the importance of nurturing curiosity and provides tailored educational experiences to young learners. Selected schools, nominated through a special BASF Kids’ Lab School Nomination Process, will be able to participate in a full day of exploration and learning at the museum.
Connecting Art, Culture, and Science
Students from various schools, including St. Monica Catholic School and Shoreham Public Sports and Wellness Academy, will enjoy a unique visit to the museum. Each classroom will receive a complimentary extensive educational day, often featuring a direct lesson from a ROM educator, along with participation in the BASF Kids’ Lab experiment. Activities like these aim to ignite the passions of young minds, seamlessly blending art, culture, and science into one exciting experience.
Renowned Commitments to Education
Marian Van Hoek, Managing Director at BASF Canada, emphasizes how National Chemistry Week serves as a platform for inspiring curiosity in young visitors, stating, “Since starting our partnership, we have engaged over 11,000 children across the GTA, and we’re thrilled to continue creating meaningful opportunities for students and families. Together, we’re shaping the future generation of innovators who experience the magic of chemistry.”
Elevating Learning through Partnerships
This collaboration not only fuels excitement for chemistry but also showcases how institutions like the ROM can partner with businesses to enhance educational experiences. As Josh Basseches, ROM Director & CEO, puts it, “Through this innovative partnership with BASF, ROM is creating new pathways for students to be inspired by art, culture, and nature.” By bringing STEAM education outside of traditional classrooms, they enrich the experiences of children and broaden their learning horizons.
About BASF
BASF Canada operates from Mississauga, specializing in providing essential chemicals for various industries while prioritizing sustainability. As a subsidiary of BASF SE and part of BASF Corporation in North America, the company employs over 1,100 individuals across Canada and reported impressive sales figures in the previous year. Committed to delivering chemistry for a sustainable future, BASF combines economic success with a strong focus on environmental protection and social responsibility. With a diverse portfolio, BASF caters to multiple sectors, emphasizing its role in the green transformation of industries worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What activities are involved in the BASF Kids’ Lab?
The BASF Kids’ Lab features hands-on experiments such as “The Chromatography Butterfly,” where kids can explore the science of chromatography while being creative.
2. When can families visit the BASF Kids’ Lab?
The Kids’ Lab will be open over two weekends in October, specifically on the 18, 19, 25, and 26, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
3. How can schools participate in this event?
Schools can participate through the School Visits program by being nominated via BASF's Kids’ Lab School Nomination Process, which allows selected classrooms to experience a full day at the museum.
4. What is BASF's commitment to education?
BASF is dedicated to promoting STEAM education and has successfully reached thousands of children to inspire their interest in science and innovation.
5. How does BASF contribute to sustainability?
BASF focuses on creating chemistry for a sustainable future, balancing economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility across its operations.
