For the fourth straight year, the Indiana State Museum is participating in GSK Science in the Summer™ to help inspire the next generation of Hoosier scientists.
As part of the nationwide initiative, the museum will provide free, informal science programming throughout the summer for students entering grades 2-6. The goal of GSK Science in the Summer is to increase youth interest and confidence in doing science and pursuing careers in STEM fields.
This year’s theme, Be a Chemist!, will encourage young scientists to discover how chemistry shapes the world around them by examining real-world problems, gathering information and conducting experiments using actual scientific tools, machines and procedures.
As one of 25 U.S. locations participating in GSK Science in the Summer, the Indiana State Museum will collaborate with community partners to offer children the opportunity to step into the shoes of real chemists focusing on cosmetics, forensics, materials, medicine and water. With a variety of fun, hands-on activities, from comparing the properties of slime with other toy materials to examining water samples to better understand how to support cleaner rivers after spills, young learners will build curiosity, confidence and foundational skills that support long-term STEM engagement.
The museum will offer programming exclusively in partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Indianapolis, Indy Parks & Recreation, Mindtrust, YMCA of Greater Indianapolis and others, engaging youth who are participating in summer programs at their locations. Additionally, museum staff will provide training for educators, equipping them to implement programming for students elsewhere across Indiana. Overall, the museum aims to reach more than 900 youth statewide, offering five hours of themed programming throughout the summer.
Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2026, GSK Science in the Summer provides opportunities for youth to embody science careers and develop their scientific thinking skills in fun, interactive ways. Supported by GSK and led by The Franklin Institute, the national network brings together informal science institutions to reach more than 20,000 youth through partnerships with community-based organizations across the United States.
The GSK Science in the Summer curriculum is free and ready to use at scienceinthesummer.fi.edu.
