Back-to-School Means More to Explore at MOSI

At MOSI, Tampa’s Museum of Science and Innovation, back-to-school season is more than just supplies and schedules — it’s about keeping curiosity alive. From launching rockets and solving engineering challenges to building virtual worlds and exploring the mysteries of space, MOSI creates experiences that stick with children long after they leave.

Here, learning isn’t limited to a desk — it’s something kids do, build, test and experience for themselves.

For families who homeschool, MOSI's Homeschool Programs provide engaging monthly Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM) experiences designed to complement existing curriculum. Younger learners ages 5-10 can participate in Science Experience and Enrichment Days (SEED), while older students ages 8-13 can dive deeper into technology-focused SEED Tech classes. These hands-on programs encourage critical thinking, creativity and exploration through age-appropriate activities that make learning exciting.

For the youngest explorers, MOSI's monthly preschool classes for ages 3-5 introduce science through imagination and play. From investigating nature to exploring simple scientific concepts, these classes help nurture a lifelong love of learning while giving little ones an opportunity to engage with the world around them.

Have a future engineer, architect or gamer at home? Minecraft Mania turns screen time into skill-building time. Using one of the world’s most popular games, kids collaborate, solve challenges and develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills — all while having fun in a creative digital space.

For scouts and curious learners alike, MOSI's Kids STEAM Workshops and Merit Badge Programs bring exciting subjects to life. Participants can dive into robotics, coding, engineering, forensics, space science and more while developing valuable skills and, in many cases, working toward badge requirements. These hands-on experiences make learning fun and help young innovators discover new interests and talents.

For an adventure kids won't forget, MOSI's Overnight Camp-Ins transform the museum into an after-hours playground for discovery. Participants can explore exhibits after dark, participate in themed STEAM activities, and enjoy a unique overnight experience surrounded by science and discovery.

As for educators, now is the perfect time to start planning field trips for the upcoming school year. MOSI's immersive exhibits and educational programs help students connect classroom lessons to real-world discovery through hands-on experiences that inspire curiosity.

Can't make it to MOSI? Let MOSI come to you. Through Outreach Programs, MOSI brings exciting STEAM experiences directly to schools, libraries, community centers and special events throughout the Tampa Bay area.

This year, give your child something to look forward to beyond the classroom. Whether they're building in Minecraft, exploring science through homeschool programs, earning scout badges, embarking on a field trip or spending the night under the stars, MOSI is where curiosity comes to life.

The school year starts here. Where will discovery take you?

Learn more at MOSI.org.

Originally published in the July 2026 issue of Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine. Presented By: MOSI | Photos Provided By: MOSI