Henkel Researchers’ World is an educational initiative designed by Henkel to introduce children to the fascinating world of science. A new online learning series is the latest offering from Henkel and the Mill River Park Collaborative to get children excited about science.
Henkel, whose North American Consumer Goods business is headquartered in Stamford, launched the North American arm of the program in partnership with the Mill River Park Collaborative and Fairfield County’s Community Foundation in June 2021.
Launched globally at Henkel’s headquarters in Dusseldorf, Germany, in 2011, the program has reached 62,000 students around the world through innovative and strategic partnerships that bring unique programs and learning opportunities to children.
We spoke to Jenny Schiavone, Vice President Corporate Communications Americas, and co-executive sponsor of Henkel Researchers’ World in North America about the free workshops that introduce students to the concepts of sustainability, consumption, recycling, materials science and more.
Who is this program available to and what age groups is it best for?
Henkel Researcher’s World programming is geared toward children aged 8-10. The lessons as part of this learning series are free and available to everyone, although the content has been created specifically for children aged 8-10.
What are a few of the lesson topics we can expect?
The three-part online series includes lessons on the process and importance of the three R’s – Reduce, Reuse and Recycle, exploring the natural world of adhesives, and detecting the presence of acids and the effects on everyday life.
The first lesson in the limited series premiered on Henkel’s YouTube channel on November 8 and is now available on demand. Families can tune in on the second Monday of each month through January for additional lessons that will be available at 6 p.m., and on-demand immediately afterwards. Participants can access the lesson and view the experiment materials needed on Henkel’s website.
Why is STEM so important for children?
STEM education is important for children to explore scientific methods, critical testing, analysis, interpretation of data, science, and of course: creativity. Through specific learning objectives, children gain insight into the process of scientific inquiry. These lessons aim to intrigue young minds to take up science and show that science and research takes collaboration, encourages new ways of thinking and can be an engaging field to pursue.
With so many virtual programs over the past several years, how will these videos keep children engaged?
These lessons, developed by Henkel scientists, take a holistic approach to learning, and put children in the role of an actual researcher. The lessons are interactive and hands-on, teaching children that research is not limited to being in a laboratory – but that curiosity can be applied to all parts of everyday life. Henkel Researchers’ World provides an educational curriculum, enriching scientific learning through a multisensory approach, relying on research and development-based teaching.
Is there any chance we can expect in-person programs in the future?
While current programming is online and virtual, Henkel Researchers’ World in North America is just getting started. We look forward to expanding our program both in Stamford and beyond to reach more children in the years to come. We hope to pursue all types of opportunities to achieve our goal of making science learning fun and accessible for all students.
We do plan to return to in person learning this summer at Mill River Park. We are happy to share that information with you when the schedule is available. You can also watch our website or follow us on @Henkel_NA Twitter for updates.