We hope to be able to sell Questacon memberships again soon.
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Gallery 6
Unfortunately Mini Q is closed for the time being.
We know our little scientists want to experience Mini Q as soon as it is safe to do so. Due to the particular nature of the displays in Mini Q, it is taking a little longer to make sure it is the best COVID Safe experience. We are assessing how and when we may be able to reopen Mini Q consistent with current social distancing guidelines and health regulations. We will announce more information when dates and details are confirmed.
For Mini Q aged visitors we have developed a special new early learning program – Questacon Science Sprouts. Each session runs for 60 minutes and includes a number of role-play exercises, hands-on activity stations and a dedicated show. Science Sprouts Sessions are held at 9:15am and 11:15am from Wednesday to Saturday each week. Pre-booked tickets are essential (fees apply).
If you have any further questions, please call our information line on 02 6270 2800 or visit our Frequently Asked Questions.
Baby Space
A special space for babies and their carers.
How it works
Accompany young babies within Baby Space so they may use sensory stimulus materials provided within the enclosed area.
Things to try or ask around the exhibit
Babies love to watch other babies and your face. Try moving down to your baby’s eye level so they can study your facial features and expressions.
Background
Babies explore the world by touching, listening, smelling and of course tasting! This is called
sensorimotor development.
Touch uses a baby’s largest organ—their skin. Touch is a vital source of stimulation and information for babies.
Visual stimulation (such as pictures and mobiles) trains a baby’s brain to interpret light waves into three dimensional images.
Movement such as rolling, stretching, climbing and crawling extends a baby’s learning ability and motor skills. Finger play improves a baby’s fi ne motor skills and eye-hand coordination.
When babies listen, they learn to convert sound signals into meaningful words in the language centre of their brain (Wernicke’s area). So be careful of what you say! Adults often use a sing-song tone of voice when talking to young children. This seems to help babies solve the ‘language problem’ of decoding a stream of noise into meaningful words with patterns.
When babies make cooing, babbling and gurgling sounds, they are experimenting with mouth and tongue movement for later speech. Newborns also use the sense of smell to recognise their mother’s scent.
