“Scientist in the house!” That’s what you’ll hear from a curious 5-year-old named Sid when his grandmother brings him home from preschool each day. You’ll also hear questions. Big questions like “Why are my shoes shrinking?” and “Why do bananas get mushy?” But then that’s what scientists do, and that’s why in many respects children are born scientists.

There is much talk among educators these days about STEM, an acronym for “science, technology, engineering, and math.” The United States has fallen seriously behind on a variety of measures connected with student achievement and interest in these areas, and this gap could pose a threat to our economic competitiveness — and more! — if we don’t do something about it.

By Jon Bowermaster. -- It wasn't too many years ago that a children's book publisher, who shall rename nameless in order to protect her and her company, said to me in her office "kids today just aren't into adventure." To which I, having written a book for her for young adults about a very amazing adventure, took umbrage.

Here's an event you won't want to miss: The first annual World Science Festival will take place in New York City from May 28 - June 1, 2008.