As Christmas approaches, many of us start to wonder about Santa’s ability to visit every home in a single night, how his reindeer manage to fly, and what science could possibly be behind these holiday miracles. These are the types of questions that inspire curiosity, and at Esplora– Malta’s much-loved Interactive Science Centre – this holiday season, we’re using the magic of Christmas to explore the wonders of science.

At Esplora, our mission is simple: we aim to make science accessible, engaging, and fun for all ages. But how do we achieve this? Through one of the most widely celebrated and culturally significant events of the year: Christmas.

The Link Between Christmas and Science

Studies show that many adults, especially those who don’t work in science-related fields, often feel intimidated by science. This fear, often rooted in childhood experiences, can make science seem distant, “too complex,” or even “nerdy.” But the truth is, science is at the heart of everything we do. From understanding the natural world around us to the technology that powers our lives, science is an integral part of daily life.

So, how do we break down these barriers? How do we spark curiosity and encourage people to explore science, especially when many of us have been conditioned to view it as something foreign or overly complex? The answer is simple: we meet people where they are.

By tying science concepts to something familiar, such as Christmas, we can transform science from something intimidating to something exciting. Christmas isn’t just about traditions and festivities; it’s also a perfect opportunity to dive into the realms of science in a fun and approachable way.

A Christmas Wonderland of Science

At Esplora, we use Christmas as a central theme to introduce STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) concepts. Through hands-on activities and interactive exhibits, visitors can explore the science behind Santa’s sleigh, the biology of reindeer, and the physics of snowflakes. It’s a fun and festive way to engage with the concepts of the natural world while celebrating the holiday season.

This approach isn’t just about science for science’s sake; it’s about creating an experience that grabs attention and stimulates curiosity. Research in science education shows that we learn best when we connect new knowledge to our existing experiences. By using familiar themes, such as holiday traditions, we make the learning process both meaningful and enjoyable.

Learning Through Storytelling

Christmas is rich with stories, from the tale of Santa Claus himself to the many cultural traditions that accompany the season. Storytelling is a powerful tool for learning. It captivates the imagination and helps us remember concepts by weaving them into a narrative we can relate to.

At Esplora’s ‘Santa’s STEM Factory’, guests can engage in a range of activities designed to get them thinking, experimenting, and learning through the lens of Christmas. Whether it’s experimenting with the physics of flying reindeer, or discovering how the science of snowflakes relates to chemistry, these activities are designed to be both fun and educational.

Sparking Curiosity Through Experience

Ultimately, the goal is to inspire curiosity. We believe that curiosity is the key to learning, and that when people are engaged, learning happens naturally. Esplora’s hands-on exhibits encourage visitors to think critically, ask questions, and explore the world around them in new ways.

Visit Esplora this Christmas and explore the exciting world of science through festive, family-friendly activities. Whether you’re curious about how Santa’s sleigh stays airborne or how reindeer adapt to cold climates, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Bring your family and explore the wonder of Christmas through the lens of STEM at Esplora’s ‘Santa’s STEM Factory’. Who knows, you might just discover the science behind the magic!

For more information, call on +356 2360 2301