KidSTREAM Children's Museum Opens in Camarillo to Foster Science Curiosity Through Hands-On Learning

In Camarillo, Ventura County, Southern California, Kristie Akl established KidSTREAM, a children’s museum focused on STREAM education—science, technology, reading, engineering, arts, and math. Her motivation stemmed from a visit over 12 years ago when she discovered the Gull Wings Children's Museum in Oxnard was closed while she was with her three daughters. To make the day worthwhile, she traveled an hour to Kidspace Children's Museum in Pasadena. Akl, who previously taught biology and biotechnology at Foothill Technology High School in Ventura, noted that many ninth graders came to her class believing they were incapable in science, having lost their natural curiosity. She recognized the need to create a space that would nurture this curiosity through hands-on learning experiences.