Kids explore the solar system at OH WOW! today

YOUNGSTOWN

Typically, models of the solar system focus on rotation. A project at the OH WOW! Roger and Gloria Jones Children’s Center for Science and Technology took a different approach, however.

As part of their twice-monthly “make it” offerings, kids could make a linear model of the solar system Saturday at the center on Federal Street.

“The idea is to get kids making things, and at the same time we’re learning a little bit about things,” said Audra Carlson, education manager. “This month our theme is astronomy. So the focus is on making a solar system.”

It’s also important to introduce children to new topics, she said.

“You never know what’s going to spark their interest.”

Facts about the solar system aren’t new to Madison Sheffield, 8, of Austintown She enjoys learning about it on her own. She placed the planets in order without help, knew that Saturn has a ring around it, and that Earth has gravity, as well as knowing Jupiter is the largest.

She plans to pursue a career in marine biology or astronomy.

For more on the day's activities, read Sunday's Vindicator or Vindy.com.