At The Kids, our connection with community is at the heart of the research we undertake. Spending time with children and families, listening to their experiences and creating opportunities to learn from one another helps keep our science connected to the people it is ultimately here to serve.
National Science Week (Monday 17 August – Friday 21 August 2026) was a joyful reminder that when researchers, kids and families come together, curiosity can grow into ideas that help create healthier futures for children. The Kids’ Discovery Centre was brought to life for a week of discovery, creativity and hands-on science exploration:
Garden of Research: Children crafted and planted their own paper flowers, each representing the life-changing research happening at The Kids, helping our Garden of Research bloom throughout the week.
Sew and grow a Balga tree: Families discovered how the Balga tree provides food before sewing their own, with a special guided workshop led by Dr Janene Sproul from Murdoch University on Thursday 20 August.
Researcher dress-up: Budding young scientists stepped into the shoes of a researcher, donning mini lab coats and safety goggles for the perfect research photo.
Find me quest: Children learned about Djilba season as they explored Waalbiirniny Waabiny Boodja outside Perth Children’s Hospital, searching for native plants including the Balga (Grass Tree).
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First published Wednesday 12 August 2026.
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