This is a sponsored post on behalf of 3M. All opinions stated are my own.
Do you have a child who has a creative mind? Encourage them to put that talent to work in the Young Scientist Challenge, and they may just win the $25,000 grand prize! The Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge is the nation’s premier science competition for grades 5-8.
My boys are not of age to apply just yet, but that just gives them a few more years to prepare for the challenge. Last summer our 7 year old attended a camp that explored his innovative side and he’s been begging to go back, meanwhile we’ve recognized the creative talents in our 5 year old since he was very young. Both boys have the potential to pull off something really creative in the future.
The Young Scientist Challenge
Kids have unique ideas about how to improve everyday life, and they’re worth listening to. Have a discussion with your children about what everyday problems could be solved with science and innovation.
How to enter:
Familiarize yourself with this getting started page for ideas.
To enter, participants must submit a one-to-two-minute video describing the science behind a new innovation or solution that could solve or impact an everyday problem. Entries are open through April 20, 2016.
Judges evaluate the entries through April and May based on creativity, scientific knowledge, persuasiveness and overall presentation. Videos will not be judged on production skills and may be recorded on cell phones or basic digital cameras.
Ten finalists are announced in the summer. These participants will be challenged to develop their innovations that positively impacts lives (including them, their family, their community or the global population). The students will participate in a mentorship program during which they will get the opportunity to work one-on-one with renowned 3M scientists as their mentors.
Each finalist will also receive a trip to the 3M Innovation Center in St. Paul, Minn., to compete at the final event in October 2016.
The Young Scientist Challenge grand prize is $25,000 and includes a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend a Discovery Network taping. Benefits can extend beyond the initial prize too! 2014 Winner Sahil Doshi was an honored guest at the 5th Annual White House Science Fair and presented his project to President Obama, among other accomplishments. 2013 Winner Peyton Robertson became the youngest winner in the history of the Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge and received a Notice of Allowance on his first patent. He was also featured on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, ABC World News and other media outlets.
Let’s encourage a new generation of STEM enthusiasts! Teachers, parents and educators ask a child: What kinds of problems are in the news, and see what solutions they can come up with. Don’t forget the deadline to enter the Young Scientist Challenge is April 20th, 2016.
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