Clover University Sound Camp starts with a success

Twenty-six kindergarten and first-grade students kicked off Washington County Extension/4-H?s Clover University by participating in the Science of Sound camp. The daylong camp was packed with exciting sounds and fascinating observations about the sense of hearing.

Throughout the day, campers gained a better understanding of how sound works through vibration and waves. They were able to be sound detectives for the day and use their listening skills to determine the different sounds around them. They participated in a sound nature walk to make note of the sounds all around them. The campers worked in groups and practiced team skills, as well as working individually to explore the sense of sound. One of the highlights of the camp was the construction of a model eardrum to demonstrate how hearing works. The day concluded with a showcase performance of the campers with their newly created instruments.

?This camp was an absolute blast! Watching the campers link together how sound travels from the object to their ears through various activities and making instruments was so exciting, and the kids loved it,? said Paige Dieleman, STEM Camp coordinator.

Clover University is presented by Washington County Extension/4-H as a part of their summer learning programs and is a brand-new program this year. These STEM camps provide campers with a hands-on learning experience focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Leaders of the camp were STEM camp coordinator Paige Dieleman as well as 4-H County Council members, Jordan Stout, Kaitlin Hora, Emma Stout, Zoe Wagner, and Emily Baetsle.