Online and in the shops: Science focus

The 19th National Science Week (www.science.ie), taking place this week, aims to explore and celebrate the ‘Power of Science’, as well as inspiring more young people to take up studies and careers in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM), at events nationwide. 

This year marks the 10th Discovery Science Festival at City Hall Cork, with a programme of interactive exhibits and workshops for families and students. Open to the public tomorrow and Sunday, from 2 to 6pm, events for older students include a seminar with ex-NASA astronaut Greg

Johnson.And whether it’s discovering which superhero you are, or zapping the microbes from deep inside the human gut, there’s plenty to get a ‘positive reaction’ from younger students too. Admission is €3.50pp/10 (family of 3); www.discoverysciencefestival.ie

Science kits: Mimitoys stock a range of science kits from Thames & Kosmos, including Science Experiments on the Go, €13.95, a new kit this year, with experiments on rotational speed, weights and balance, etc; or last year’s bestseller, The Human Body,€ 29.95, which explores anatomy using the five senses.

There’s a new Bodymagnet kit from Janod, €29.95, with 76 magnets to teach children about the body, muscles, skeleton, etc. Kits suitable for ages 8+, www.mimitoys.ie

Problem solving: Learning through role and imaginary play is an important part of early childhood development, helping to develop social and problem solving skills. Chad Valley’s dress up trunk has three role play outfits and accessories for your little one to pretend to be a scientist, doctor or vet. €21.59, age 3+, www.argos,ie

Check up: Irish-made Disney show Doc McStuffins has inspired lots of little docs to give their toys a check-up.

The pre-school favourite has been widely praised for providing a positive role model for children and dealing with important subjects. Meanwhile, this vintage-style fabric doctor’s bag from Le Toy Van, filled with wooden medical instruments and bottles, was one of eight winners at this year’s Slow Toy Awards ( www.slowtoymovement.com ), which celebrate well-made toys designed to last, €44.95, ages 3+, www.littleones.ie