Science Central in Fort Wayne Indiana launched its new temporary exhibit Eat Well Play Well on October 7 2025. This hands on display focuses on healthy eating habits and active lifestyles through fun interactive elements aimed at families and kids.
The exhibit runs until January 4 2026 and draws from the latest research on nutrition and fitness to help visitors make better choices every day.
Discover the Interactive Features of Eat Well Play Well
Families stepping into the Eat Well Play Well exhibit at Science Central will find a world of engaging activities designed to spark curiosity about health. Kids and adults alike can dive into games that teach portion control and the energy needed to burn calories through play.
One highlight lets visitors test their balance and flexibility in simple challenges that mimic real life movements. These features make learning feel like adventure rather than a lesson pulling from recent studies on how small changes cut disease risks.
The bilingual setup with English and Spanish panels ensures everyone can join in broadening its reach in a diverse community like Fort Wayne.
The Science of Smart Food Choices Explained
At its core Eat Well Play Well breaks down the biology behind what we eat and how it fuels our bodies. Visitors learn about serving sizes by handling models that show real portions versus common overestimations leading to better daily decisions.
Recent health data points to rising obesity rates among children in the US with Indiana seeing about 34 percent of kids affected according to 2025 reports. The exhibit counters this by showcasing clinical findings on how balanced diets boost energy and mood tying into broader trends like national wellness campaigns.
Experts note that interactive science like this helps kids internalize facts making them more likely to adopt habits early. For instance understanding calorie burn through simulated activities reveals why a quick game of tag equals a sugary snack in energy use.
Ways to Stay Active and Have Fun
Staying moving takes center stage in the exhibit with zones dedicated to playful exercises that build strength and coordination. Children can try obstacle courses that demonstrate how different activities ramp up heart rates and improve endurance.
This setup aligns with current guidelines from health organizations recommending at least 60 minutes of daily activity for kids. In Fort Wayne local initiatives like community parks programs complement such exhibits pushing for more outdoor time amid urban growth.
Parents often share stories of how similar experiences motivate their families to swap screen time for backyard sports. The exhibit even includes tips on incorporating movement into routines like walking to school or family bike rides.
- Balance beam challenges to test stability and core strength
- Calorie burn simulators showing exercise impacts
- Flexibility games with stretching guides for all ages
Practical Tips for Your Visit to Science Central
Planning a trip to see Eat Well Play Well makes for a rewarding outing especially on weekends when crowds build energy. Arrive early to avoid lines and pack water since the activities get everyone moving and thirsty.
Admission costs 12 dollars at the door or 11 online for ages three and up with free entry for toddlers and members. The museum at 1950 North Clinton Street offers ample parking and is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. extending to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays.
| Day of Week | Opening Time | Closing Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | 10 a.m. | 4 p.m. | Standard hours |
| Thursday | 10 a.m. | 4 p.m. | Standard hours |
| Friday | 10 a.m. | 4 p.m. | Standard hours |
| Saturday | 10 a.m. | 5 p.m. | Extended closing |
| Sunday | Noon | 5 p.m. | Weekend option |
| Monday/Tuesday | Closed | Closed | Rest days |
Combine your visit with nearby spots like the Fort Wayne Zoo for a full day of exploration. Dress comfortably as the hands on nature means lots of bending and reaching.
Boosting Community Health Through Education
Exhibits like Eat Well Play Well play a key role in tackling local health challenges in Fort Wayne where adult obesity hovers around 35 percent per 2025 stats. By blending science with fun it empowers residents to make informed choices reducing reliance on processed foods.
This temporary show builds on past successes at Science Central including a 2022 version that drew thousands and sparked school programs. Linking to national efforts like the USDA’s healthy eating plate it provides tools for long term wellness.
As childhood fitness lags in many areas such initiatives offer hope showing how education leads to action. Families leaving the exhibit often report trying new recipes or joining play groups inspired by what they learned.
Share your thoughts on this exhibit in the comments below and tell friends about it to spread the word on healthy fun.
