DIY Ice-Cream Meets STEM

Led by Kyle Nguyen and Darren Nguyen, XFYD Westminster’s STEM Directors, the session kicked off with ice-breaker questions to help everyone get to know one another and feel comfortable. As the lesson transitioned into the science portion, the Cub Scouts were introduced to the concept of freezing point depression—a key principle behind how salt affects the freezing process when making ice-cream.

For every question answered or idea shared, students were rewarded with candy, encouraging active participation and enthusiasm throughout the lesson.

Making Ice-Cream—Hands-On Style

After the science discussion, volunteers helped each Cub Scout prepare their own bagged ice-cream, using common household ingredients. From measuring and mixing to shaking the bags, every student was involved in each step of the process.

To top off their creations, a variety of toppings were offered, making the experiment even more enjoyable and tasty. Despite the windy weather, the sunny morning created the perfect backdrop for enjoying a cold treat and learning something new.

Lasting Impact

This event not only gave the Cub Scouts a deeper appreciation for everyday science but also showed them how learning can be fun, messy, and delicious. The experience left a sweet impression, reinforcing the idea that STEM is all around us—even in our favorite desserts.

Key Concepts Introduced:

• Freezing Point Depression:
  How adding salt to ice lowers its freezing point, making it possible to freeze ice-cream inside a bag.
• Everyday Science:
  Using accessible ingredients and materials to demonstrate scientific principles in action.

Our dedicated teachers, Kyle Nguyen and Darren Nguyen (both juniors at La Quinta High School), along with a team of enthusiastic volunteers, led the children through an exciting science experiment—creating their very own lava lamps. Each child eagerly participated, learning step by step how to combine household ingredients to produce the lava lamp effect.

The lesson focused on the scientific concept of density, specifically explaining why oil rises and water sinks. The teachers provided a simple, clear explanation, ensuring each child understood the science behind what they were observing. Volunteers closely guided and assisted each participant, making sure everyone could complete the experiment confidently and successfully.

At the conclusion of the event, each child proudly took home their custom-made lava lamp—a fun and educational reminder of the day’s lesson. In addition, recognizing that three children were unable to attend due to illness, our board members thoughtfully prepared and gifted lava lamps to them, ensuring no child missed out on the experience.

Key Learnings

• Hands-on STEM Learning: Provided children with access to fun, interactive science experiments.
• Introduction to Scientific Concepts: Simplified explanation of density and observation-based learning.
• Inclusive & Supportive Environment: Volunteers ensured every child could fully participate.
• Personalized Souvenirs: Each child left with a homemade lava lamp as a keepsake of the lesson.