ABSTRACT
This chapter describes a research and development project at the New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) that explored how making and tinkering experiences can be designed to appeal to both children and their caregivers, particularly those with little prior experience in making. By comparing a wide range of making programs developed in the museum’s Maker Space for families in its local community, NYSCI investigated the impact of various tools, materials, and strategies on children’s learning of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and caregivers’ engagement. The chapter shares research findings from more than 200 family groups and 88 caregivers, as well as the learning experiences of particular families. The project found that a variety of strategies could create a welcoming space for children and their caregivers and that the physical setup and facilitation style could be adjusted to invite caregivers to be actively involved. Based on evidence from the project, the chapter includes suggestions for designing and facilitating family-centered programs.
