Do sessions cost anything?

No. The Summer STEAM Series at Norman F. Feldheym Library is free and open to the public.

What ages are recommended?

Activities are designed for kindergarten through sixth grade; parents and guardians must attend with children.

Do I need to register?

The program description indicates free drop in attendance; arrive early to secure space and materials.

Is the program wheelchair accessible?

The library is a public civic building; contact the Norman F. Feldheym Library for specific accessibility details or accommodations.

Can siblings of different ages attend together?

Yes. Activities are family friendly and adults can supervise children of varying ages through the same session.

Are materials safe for children?

Yes. Materials are low tech and chosen for durability and safety, but parents should supervise younger children during hands on segments.

Summer STEAM at Norman F. Feldheym Library: Hands-On Rocks, Space, and Ocean Science for Families in San Bernardino | Workshop | Events

Afternoons at the Norman F. Feldheym Library in downtown San Bernardino become a hands on science lab for families each summer. The Summer STEAM Series meets at 555 W 6th St, San Bernardino, CA 92410, USA and offers one hour sessions that pair short stories with tactile activities designed for kindergarten through sixth grade children. Free and open to the public, sessions require a parent or guardian to attend with their child and emphasize doing science together rather than watching from the sidelines.

The program focuses on three neighborhood sized themes: rocks, space, and ocean life. For geology days instructors bring rock samples that reflect the local landscape shaped by the San Bernardino Mountains and nearby fault systems, so kids can handle granite and examine grains under a magnifier. Space sessions map simple orbital mechanics and point out constellations visible over the valley on summer nights. Ocean sessions bring the coast inland with buoyancy experiments and demonstrations of tide and current effects on marine animals.

Each one hour meeting follows a clear rhythm: a short story that frames the topic, a guided hands on activity that invites hypothesis and testing, and a wrap up that encourages questions and exploration at home. Materials are intentionally low tech and durable—magnifiers, recycled containers, colored sand, simple motors and small fossil replicas—so families can repeat experiments using common household items. The result is playful science that builds observation skills and curiosity without costly supplies.

Part of what makes this series a local standout is its accessibility. The series takes place in a civic building that serves many neighborhoods across the Inland Empire, and the free format removes barriers for families who want enriching summer options. It also links classroom ideas to the regional landscape: the nearby mountains, clear desert skies, and coastal ecosystems that define Southern California make the lessons feel personally relevant.

If you are visiting San Bernardino with children, the Summer STEAM Series is an easy, low cost way to spend a morning. Pair a session with a walk through the downtown park, a visit to a local museum, or a short drive up to a foothill trail to see geological features in person. Bring comfortable clothes, curiosity, and a willingness to get a little messy; the focus here is on learning by doing and leaving with an experiment you can try again at home.

Sessions are inclusive and suitable for a range of abilities, and staff welcome questions about accommodations. Parking is available nearby and public transit stops are within walking distance of the library. Expect light noise and active groups; bringing a water bottle and a small backpack helps keep hands free while supervising experiments and exploring nearby downtown spots.

About Family Engagement

Family Engagement is a community-focused organization based in San Bernardino, California, that coordinates family-oriented events and vendor opportunities for local schools and neighborhoods. It organizes experiences that connect local service providers, nonprofits, and businesses with families, with a focus on safe, inclusive community engagement. The organization manages vendor registration and event participation logistics to ensure participating vendors can present services, distribute materials, and interact with attendees in family-friendly settings.

One primary offering is vendor registration for the SBCUSD Trunk or Treat, a large community gathering that welcomes approximately 1,500 participants. For this event, vendors decorate trunks or tables, distribute candy and resources, and engage directly with families and children. That structured format gives vendors a practical platform to increase visibility within the San Bernardino community while contributing to a safe, festive environment.

Family Engagement works with school districts and community partners to align event planning with school safety guidelines and family needs. The organization emphasizes clear communication during registration, event setup instructions, and onsite coordination to help vendors prepare effectively. Registrants receive details about location, timing, setup requirements, and participant expectations.

By focusing on local relationships and organized event processes, Family Engagement offers vendors and community groups a reliable avenue to reach families in San Bernardino. Its event offerings promote community connection, safe entertainment for children, and opportunities for local organizations to share information and resources.

Vendor registration is available to small businesses, nonprofits, schools, and community groups seeking direct outreach to families at school-hosted events annually throughout San Bernardino.

Summer STEAM at Norman F. Feldheym Library: Hands-On Rocks, Space, and Ocean Science for Families in San Bernardino

Adventure Brief

Keep the Adventure Going

Trip Details from the Operator

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Highlights

Local Insights

Related Adventures & Guides

Operated By

About Family Engagement

Reserve a Vendor Spot for SBCUSD Trunk or Treat

Adventure Tips

Recommended Gear