Keiki Labs at NexTech Hawaiʻi's 2025 Summer STEM Exploration Day

On Saturday, June 21, 2025, Keiki Labs participated in the 2025 Summer STEM Exploration Day, hosted by NexTech Hawaiʻi. This exciting, tuition-free event was designed for Hawaiʻi Island students in grades 3 through 5 and their families to delve into the fascinating world of chemical reactions through hands-on activities.

Event Highlights

Acid and Base Candy Making

Participants discovered the science behind sweet treats by exploring chemical reactions involved in candy creation.

Making Smarties

At NexTech

Cosmic Smarties

Plastic Bottle Rocket Building & Decorating

Engaging in engineering design thinking, attendees constructed and personalized their own rockets.

Working Hard on Rockets

Rocket Launching Fun

The event culminated with the thrill of seeing these creations soar into the sky.

Gratitude and Acknowledgments

We extend our heartfelt thanks to NexTech Hawaiʻi for organizing such an inspiring event. Your dedication to fostering a love for learning in young minds is commendable. A special thank you to Waiakea High School for hosting the event and providing a welcoming space for all participants. We also wish to express our sincere appreciation to the high school volunteers—Gabe, Noah, and University of Hawaiʻi student Aldwin—for their invaluable assistance and enthusiasm throughout the day.

Looking Ahead

Reflecting on this enriching day, Keiki Labs is excited to continue offering engaging science activities that inspire curiosity and learning. Stay tuned for upcoming workshops, summer camps, and community events designed to nurture a community of young science explorers. We believe that learning is most powerful when it’s fun, truthful, and safe—just like the spirit of the Summer STEM Exploration Day.

Thank you for being part of our journey to inspire the next generation of thinkers, inventors, and dreamers through the joy of science!