Meet Carmen Castillo-Barrett, Executive Director of the non-profit organization, Kiddie Science in Brooklyn, NY. My son enjoyed summer classes with Ms Carmen at Elk Cafe for 2 summers in a row since he was 2 1/2. The level of detail he remembers about his experience from last year, is a true testament to the dedication of Ms. Carmen's mission, "to plant the seeds of science in the hearts and minds of young children..."
Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours?
A. I want to leave a mark in this world. I want kids and grown-ups to get excited about science and appreciate its beautifully complicated simplicity.
Q. How are you fulfilling this intention?
A. I teach fun, hands-on science workshops to young kids through a nonprofit I established, Kiddie Science. I hope that by working with an age group that is already naturally curious that I can plant the seed of science into the hearts and minds of young scientists.
Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them?
A. As a Dominican woman in the field of science, the barriers have been plenty! I deal with them by reflecting on how far I've come, taking a deep breath, and moving forward by any means necessary.
Thank you, Ms. Carmen for doing big things in our community. And I'm proud to say that my son has been reaping the benefits of your mission for the past two summers and looks forward to more.
For more information on Kiddie Science, visit www.kiddiescience.org.