Research in Education and Learning Lab

Curiosity Club is a drop-in program created by the Research in Education and Learning (REAL) Lab at the University of Virginia. This research-practice initiative is designed to spark children's natural sense of wonder through playful, open-ended exploration.

Designed primarily for children ages 4-9, but open to all, each session introduces a new theme with engaging activities that invite children to explore, ask questions, and make discoveries at their own pace. Grown-ups and younger children are welcome to join in, too! Whether your child visits for a few minutes or stays for the full hour, Curiosity Club provides space to be creative, build problem-solving skills, and develop a lifelong love of learning.

Throughout the school year, we will share recaps from each session, including the theme, learning objective, activity stations, and ideas for how caregivers can continue the exploration at home.

A special thank-you to our friends at Northside Library for hosting Curiosity Club this school year. We’re grateful for this partnership.

Even if you can’t join us in person, we hope these activities and ideas help your family keep curiosity growing at home. Enjoy!