HVO funds Singleton Library program to spark local preschoolers’ interest in science

Hunter Valley Operations (HVO) has funded a new Singleton Public Library Little Bang Science program to inspire local preschoolers to think critically and have a lifelong interest in STEM – science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The library used a HVO Community Grant to purchase Little Bang Discovery Club kits, the Big Bang Book of Science and a Storytime Science kit.

The program will kick off with a free hands-on introduction to scientific enquiry and discovery for children aged 3-5 years and their carer on Friday October 4, 2024 from 2.30 – 3.30pm, as part of the Library’s school holiday activities. The kits will enable kids to discover the wonders of science beyond the library walls through an outreach activity at local preschools and early learning centres in the Singleton local government area.

Fun, free workshops for kids

Vicki Brereton, Singleton Council’s Director Organisation and Community Capacity, said the program consisted of fun, facilitated workshops for 3-5 year olds that introduce children to the basics of science in a way that felt more like play than education.

“The kits mean we can introduce stand alone programming targeting children 3-5 years, introducing them to science concepts in a fun, interactive way that will lay the groundwork for a lifetime of learning, critical thinking and discovery,” Ms Brereton said.

“It’s a wonderful way to help equip young children with the tools necessary to navigate an increasingly complex and technology-driven world, and another educational and fun addition to our Library’s ever-diverse school holiday activities,” she said.

“We thank Hunter Valley Operations for partnering with us to be able to deliver this kind of program and we can’t wait to see children getting involved.”

HVO Community Grants

HVO Community and Environment Officer Nic McLaughlin (pictured above, centre) said the Little Bang Science Program is one of 20 projects funded through the first round of its bi-annual community grants program.

“We fund not-for-profit organisation projects that make a positive difference to the skills and capacity, health or the environment of communities in the Upper and Lower Hunter,” he said.

“Giving local kids skills in STEM is critical for them to access well-paid and rewarding future jobs and to give our region the capability to grow our economy and develop solutions to tackle our challenges.

HVO’s round 2 community grants program is now open:

• Submissions close 30 September 2024
• More information or to apply: Community Grant.

Book the Little Bang Science program:

• Bookings for the October 4 program event are essential
• Click here to reserve a place for you and your preschooler.

See the Library’s full school holidays program here.