I wanted to share with you the following article and video that were produced by WUTR:

Nano Utica is on its way to the area and it seems like everyone is jumping on board--including grade-school kids.

From static electricity to refraction--kids from kindergarten to sixth grade participated in nano day.

"All over the country there are programs like this going on where volunteers work with children to do hands-on activities that help to explain and describe nanotechnology products and some of the science behind them," says Elizabeth Rossi, SUNY Poly.

Over 30 students participated in a number of nano-related hands-on activities that the Rome YMCA. They're one of a dozen sites state wide that will participate during a week of nano days. Engaging students early in their academic careers.

"When we have an activity like this we're always trying to create connections for kids that will inspire them to think of themselves as science, technology, engineering and math capable," Rossi says. And providing unique opportunities for young students.

"Within the school unfortunately they don't get to have a lot of hands-on experience. So bringing that to our program it allows them to have fun and to engage," says Melissa Dukette, Greater Tri-Valley YMCA.

But even though they may seem a little young--these kids are gaining experience that already have them thinking about the future.

"When i wanna grow up i wanna be a scientist like my dad."

Nano Days continue around the state until Friday--including in Albany and Rochester.

[video width="320" height="240" mp4="http://sunypoly.edu/apps/blogs/news/files/2015/04/WUTR-Students-Participate-in-NanoDay3.31.15.mp4"][/video]

Ana Rivera | 03/31/2015 06:10 PM