Eugene Chapter #77 of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), The Science Factory, and the River Road Parks & Recreation District
are the co-sponsors of the 2017 Block Kids Competition, which will
take place this year on Saturday, February 4 at Emerald Park in Eugene. NAWIC
chapters across the country perennially produce the award-winning program, supporting
one of the organization’s goals, which is to make a difference in the
communities of which they are a part.
Block Kids makes a difference by introducing children in Grades 1
through 6 to the possibility of careers in the construction industry. The
contest encourages them to use their imagination to create a structure with a
specific set of materials. Kids who participate explore how and why a structure
is built, with the mentorship of judges hailing from all corners of the
construction industry. There is no fee for the participants.
The competition
comprises a 45-minute period within which the budding designers and builders must
assemble a structure of their choosing, provided it relates in some way to the
construction industry. The organizers provide each contestant with a set of 100
interlocking blocks, as well as any three of four additional items (a small
rock, string, foil, or poster board). Local construction industry professionals
judge each entry. They ask each competitor to discuss his or her project,
judging each for creativity and execution. Ultimately, the judges select first,
second, and third place winners in each of three grade level groups (Grades
1-2, Grades 3-4, and Grades 5-6). All participants receive a goody bag.
The
judges will choose one project (regardless of the grade levels) for advancement
to the subsequent regional contest. Each region will in turn select one
semi-finalist for entry into the national competition, at which 2017’s top
prizes will be awarded to three projects.
Want to be a Block Kids
judge?
I had the pleasure of
being a judge at one Block Kids Competition a few years back. I was amazed and
delighted by what kids can create. Their effort and enthusiasm are infectious,
and their resourceful and inventiveness are refreshing. If you’re a local
construction industry professional and interested in being a judge, the ladies
of NAWIC Chapter #77 would love to hear from you. In addition to judges, the
organizers also need volunteers to help with set up and other logistics. Contact Nancy
Ograin at nancy.ograin@gmail.com and let her know you’d like to help in either or both
capacities.
Do you have a child who would like to be a Block
Kid?
The competition is
fun, educational, and a wonderful way for your child to spend a winter
afternoon. Advance registration by January 28 is required for
each participating child. To sign up, fill out the online form. If you have difficulty with the online form, call 541-682-7888.
You can fax, mail or drop off the registration form at the Science
Factory. If you prefer, you can also register in person at the Science
Factory (map).
What: 2017 Block Kids
Competition
When: Saturday, February 4,
2017 (set up: 11:30 AM; competition begins at 1:30 PM
Cost: Free
Registration
Deadline:
January 28, 2017
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