Catawba Science Center
Young children doing science experiments with their caregivers
Public Programs

Itty Einstein Science Time!

Discover hands-on science exploration for little learners ages 3–5 and their caregivers in this series of educational programs to inspire young scientists!

Classes are currently full!
About the Program

Science Fun for Your Little One

Itty Einstein Science Time! is a monthly science program designed for children ages 3–5 and their caregivers. Each session features hands-on experiments, live animal encounters, and age-appropriate STEM activities that spark curiosity and a love of learning.

Classes are held in the West Wing Education Building at Catawba Science Center. Registration is required and space is limited, so sign up early!

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Who It's For

Ages 3–5 & caregivers

Schedule

One Thursday a month from 10am to 11am

Cost

M: $10 per child NM: $15 per child Accompanying adults are FREE

Location

West Wing Education Building at Catawba Science Center

What to Expect

Hands-On Learning

Little scientists get to touch, explore, and discover through age-appropriate experiments designed just for them.

Live Animal Encounters

Meet some of CSC's resident animals up close and learn fascinating facts about the natural world.

Caregiver Participation

Caregivers join in the fun, making Itty Einstein a wonderful bonding experience for the whole family.

Science Center Access

Stay after class to explore the science center with the purchase of a CSC admission ticket.

Class schedule

Ready to Register?

Classes fill up fast! Register online to secure your spot for the next Itty Einstein Science Time session.

DateClassDescription
September 24, 2026Bugging OutThis is an investigation of all things creepy crawly. We'll dig into the amazing world of insects and arachnids and make BIG discoveries about little creatures. Meet a few creatures that call CSC their home.
October 22, 2026The Anatomy of MEIngredients: 10 fingers, 2 lungs, over 200 bones, 1 heart, 1 brain. Directions: Connect well for an amazing human body. Let's discover the "ingredients" that make up the human body and learn how they work together to help us move, bend, learn, and grow.
November 19, 2026Dino Detectives: Built to SurviveRoar into a hands-on Paleontology adventure to discover the ancient survival secrets of the dinosaurs. Explore their incredible defenses that allowed them to survive for so long. Learn what teeth, claws, and footprints can tell us about a dino.
December 17, 2026Legends of the DeepLet your little one's curiosity shine as we dive into the ocean's deepest secrets. Come discover what life is like at the sea floor. We'll "meet" the specialized creatures that call this place home.
January 28, 2027The Science of SnowBundle up and investigate the chilly mysteries of ice and snow. Observe a snowstorm in a test tube, examine snowflakes and their unique shapes, and play with instant snow.
February 25, 2027Engineering! The Power of ShapesBuild on your child's curiosity as we study shapes as the basic building blocks of engineering. We'll solve problems, explore shapes, and build.
March 25, 2027Up, Up, and AwayElevate your child's wonder in our flight lab as we discover the science behind air and flight. Our interactive adventure will transform complex aerodynamics into kid-friendly play.
April 22, 2027Out of the NestSpread your wings and explore the feathered world with us at CSC. We'll investigate a beak buffet, egg variations, and what makes birds so special.
May 20, 2027Wild WaterYou and your little scientist are lab partners in a wonderful water adventure. Dive into the physics of water density and surface tension. Make some bubbly breakthroughs.
Register for Itty Einstein

Find Us

Classes will be held inside the West Wing Education Building at Catawba Science Center, adjacent to the main Arts and Science Center Building, in classroom 1 on the SALT Block campus.

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Hours

  • Wed–Sat: 10am–4pm
  • Sun: 1pm–4pm
  • Mon & Tue: Closed
  • Office Hours: Mon – Fri 9:00am to 5:00pm.

Admission

  • Members: FREE
  • Adult (18+): $16
  • Youth (3–17): $14
  • Military/Student/Senior: $14
  • Children 2 & Under: FREE

Location

On the SALT Block

243 Third Avenue NE Hickory, NC 28601

(828) 322-8169

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Catawba Science Center

Changing lives and inspiring learning through science and wonder.

SERM — Southeastern Reciprocal MembershipASTC Passport ProgramNC Science Festival

Funded Affiliate of

Arts Culture Catawba

through the United Arts Fund

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© 2026 Catawba Science Center · Located in Hickory, NC — within a short drive from Morganton, Statesville, Lenoir, Lincolnton, and Charlotte.