'They're two peas in a pod.'īuilding memories and encouraging curiosity are critical to Impression 5's mission, Larson said. He expects a flair for science to sprout from his wife's relationship with her grandson. The connection between grandparent and grandchild can be very special, Pope said, citing his own love for baking inspired by his grandmother.

'We bought him blocks, and he's got a robot already,' Pope said. She wants to take the 3-year-old to Impression 5 to encourage his curiosity. Lansing resident Martin Pope, who goes by Uncle Jamz, stopped by the center Monday looking for programming available to his wife's grandson. There's also the desire to increase educational programming by hosting labs. The center wants to continue to invest in new exhibits, both permanent and traveling. 'It gives us these opportunities for a child to connect to something they're interested in.'

'It's really important to have a really diverse set of content areas so people can choose what they want to get engaged in,' Larson said. Impression 5 hosts at least two temporary exhibits a year designed to bring new people into the space. The science center has about 30,000 square feet of exhibit space on two floors. The first floor of the museum is currently occupied by an interactive traveling exhibit. 'It's the way that we achieve that mission that has obviously changed over the years.' 'The mission of Impression 5 has always been about hands-on interaction between science and the arts,' said Executive Director Erik Larson. Founder Marilynne Eichinger wanted to provide a space for kids to use all five senses to learn about the world around them. Impression 5 first opened in April of 1972. To celebrate, the center is looking back on the past half-century by soliciting memories from the community and raising funds that will see it through the next 50 years. The young scientists were there for a day camp during their spring break, but hands-on activities happen daily at the science center, which marks its 50th birthday this month.

That's what a group of 9- and 10-year-olds were learning Monday at Impression 5 Science Center in downtown Lansing, engaged in an experiment about acidity using chips, water and vinegar.

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