You might want your tykes to grow up to be the Bill Nyes of the 21st century, but you’d probably prefer that they keep their hands-on learning away from your newly finished granite countertops. The solution: Show up this Thursday at the Harold Washington Library Center for the Ultimate Science Show with Michael Offutt. This educational presenter offers up an “unusual demonstration of oddities and seemingly magical ‘tricks’ with explanations of scientific principles.” So, your kiddos will be fooled into thinking they’re in for some magic, when, in fact, they’ll be getting a healthy dose of all-thing science-oriented. The event is designed for five- to 12-year-olds, and advanced registration is only required for groups of six or more. You couldn’t do better if you let the babes orchestrate baking soda explosions atop your kitchen table.

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