Science Behind STEAM-Powered Saturday

STEAM-Powered Saturday explores science, technology, engineering, arts and math through a wide variety of hands-on activities! Dig deeper into the scientific concepts behind these activities with these resources for kids and families--whether you came to our event or not.

We're so excited for this year's event on Saturday, October 3, 2026 at Harold Washington Library Center (400 S. State St.) from 11 am to 3 pm. 

This year, we're focusing on building the change by exploring conservation, nature and the night sky.

Frogs

  • Did you know that there are 4 kinds of frogs common in the Chicago area? The Field Museum shares more information about these species including what their eggs look like.
  • Have you ever seen a frog catch a fly in slow motion? If not, prepare to be amazed!  See how a frog's tongue really wraps around the fly.
  • Frog and Toad don't behave like real frogs and toads do, but they are still a great way to get kids interested in the real animals.

The Moon 

One Book, One Chicago is all about space this year but we've decided to focus on the moon.

  • Check out NASA's Daily Moon to see exactly where we are in the lunar cycle and see what you might be able to spot on the moon using just your eyes or a pair of binoculars.
  • Why does the moon look different every night? NASA's Space Place will show you how the position of the moon and Earth combine to make the moon look like it does.
  • Did you know that earthshine lets us see the dark side of the moon? Earthshine is when Earth's light reflects onto the moon. This allows us to see some features more clearly. Read a full explanation here, scroll down to the bottom for beautiful photos.

Build the Change

  • You can use LEGO® bricks to build anything! Have you ever tried building something you want to se in the real world? Build the Change asks real kids to do just that.
  • See how kids around the world have imagined playful schools and cities or items we can use to conserve resources and help plants and animals.

Nighttime in the City

Illinois and Chicago are home to many different creepy, crawly (but sometimes cute!) nighttime critters. On a given night, one might hear the low hoot-hoot of a Great Horned Owl or look outside and see a possum or raccoon crawling across the street looking for food. What nocturnal animals do you see in your neighborhood? 

  • Read about urban wildlife you could spot on your next outing.
  • The Illinois Department of Natural Resources put together this fun informational guide about the many, many critters we can find in our communities. Visit your library if you want to print out the coloring pages.   
  • Light pollution is a real issue in our cities, but it's easy to fix. Learn more about how it works and how the City of Chicago is helping!

Thanks to our partners for supporting this great day!

For more books about these STEAM concepts, check out our STEAM-Powered Saturday booklist. We also have ScienceConnections programs happening at many branches all year-round if you're looking more hands-on activities.