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Yesterday I had the unique experience of helping 50 screaming preschooler’s find something fun and amazing in the world of science. We have a special area at the science center for kids who are a bit too young to enjoy the more cerebral exhibits and demonstrations through the rest of the center, so they can gather in the discovery room for 45 minute blocks and enjoy fun science related toys without so much emphasis on learning facts and information. They can play in a replica cave, make a track for marbles to roll down, build puzzles, look at fish and lizards, and even see and hold live Amazonian cockroaches! The idea is not to force science upon them, or to lecture them, but rather to facilitate exploration in their play. When kids play, they are really learning. We call it play, but they really work hard at it, learning about the world around them that is so new. When we can make that process enjoyable, then they will grow up appreciating exploration, science, and the search for a greater understanding of ourselves, and the world around us. And that’s our goal.

The roaches are one of my favorites. Blaberus giganteus is the species we have, the Giant Cave Cockroach, native to the Amazon rainforest. They can grow to over 4 inches in length, though ours are only about 2-3 inches long. Unlike American roaches which are thought of as pests, the Amazon roaches are wild and live on the floor of the jungle. The roaches play an important part in the ecosystem, breaking down detritus on the forest floor, and aerating the new soil. They aren’t filthy like one might think, and are actually quite clean; they even preen and wash themselves like cats. They are gentle and docile, and don’t mind being held, they just crawl around tickling your hand. They never bite, and their wing casings are very delicate and beautiful, once you get a good look at them.

Many kids are nervous about them at first, but once they have a chance to hold one, they really get to liking the roaches too. I think thats a big step for kids. People think of the roach purely in terms of pestilence. And while I agree that roaches don’t really belong indoors, I must also remind myself that they are living beings like ourselves, and only want to eke out a living in this world. Roaches have been around for a lot longer than humans have, and will likely be around long after we are gone. One might say we are the ones infesting their homes, rather than the other way around. So I think its good when a kid can get over their fear and hatred of this rather innocent living creature, and instead see it as an object of wonder and life.

So in recap, bugs == good. I’m going to go geek with Dennis about Forte Night music theory stuff, so hopefully I will come back better educated about music in general, and be more equipped to write some music theory software. We might also watch some anime, and then go see Seven Nations play here in town. Karaoke may or may not follow, it is yet to be determined.

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