Dr. Science Mom Lights Up the Lab with After School Learning

Karen Engates, otherwise known as Dr. Science Mom, runs a science camp after school program in Texas. She is a mother with a Ph.D.

She mainly works with grades kindergarten to third, exploring science. In Texas, grades 4 and 5 have regular science time during the week to prepare for state tests. The younger grades do not have a required weekly science time.

Karen does her best to get the kids excited about science, “I try to do my part to get them motivated, learn a few skills using lab equipment, and show them that having fun in science is possible.”

One of her recent science camps was the messiest lab ever with Skewer Through the Balloon, Alka-Seltzer Rockets, Wind Bags, Exploding Corn and a Genie in a Bottle.

Her second graders really enjoyed the Taco Sauce Penny Cleaner experiment and wondered “if taco sauce cleans pennies, just think what it could do for your teeth!”

Maybe they’re on to a new product – Taco Sauce Toothpaste – it’s not so minty.

She also hosted a Halloween Science day with Boo Bubbles, Insta-Worms and other spooky stuff.

Karen has worked with many of the kids since they were in kindergarten and has always had excited, engaged scientists. Her goal is to work towards a district-approved summer science camp one week for each grade level.

We hope she reaches her goals and continues with bringing science into the lives of young students in Texas. Karen Engates is an amazing Dr. Science Mom.

6 replies
  1. Paula Roper
    Paula Roper says:

    Cudos to you! I just recently did a science birthday party with my 8 year old daughter. Well actually we did 3 parties, 1 with my family, 1 with my husband’s and 1 with her friends from school. I had so much fun doing an array of experiments. Some bought from Steve Spangler’s website and some from the free experiment spot. The point being, I had kids from 6 to 13 and girls and boys go crazy for science. I wish I had this kind of fun in science when I was a kid!
    Keep Up the good work, you have no idea what an impact you are making on these kids lives.
    I have goose bumps!

    Reply
  2. Nona Hall
    Nona Hall says:

    You rock, Dr. Engates! I have learned so much from you and look forward to learning more. The kids are lucky to have you! Can’t wait for summer camp!

    Reply
  3. Paige Koehler Marsh
    Paige Koehler Marsh says:

    You go Karen,

    I saw this on Kelly’s facebook page and think it is great. It has been a long time since I have gotten the chance to see you or Kelly, but I do think of you and your family often.
    Good luck with your goals.

    Paige

    Reply
  4. Karen
    Karen says:

    Thank you, Steve, for all your inspiration over the years. Without you (and your cool science products, videos, experiments, workshops, books, etc.), many teachers would never step out of their comfort zone to explore the field of science. You’re a Science Superhero (!), and I totally appreciate the blog article. Take care!

    Reply
  5. Karin Zaltsman
    Karin Zaltsman says:

    Dr. Engates is amazing! My daughter has done her Sci-Camp two years in a row and has loved each and every time. I hope we are lucky enough to be able to do it again if it is offered next year. I know it is a great way for her to reach the young ones here and expose them to more Science! Thanks again!

    Reply

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