Answers to Common Questions about birthday parties?

How are we different from other Science Parties?  We are scientists.  We share our excitement about science with the party goers in our laboratory where the party goers will be actively engaged in science activities.   

Energetic Einsteins is directed by doctoral level science faculty who have designed all of the science parties.  The children will be lead by at least one doctoral level faculty member and our other scientists have at least a bachelors degree in science.   Our faculty members are well published for both their scientific research as well as within the science education literature.  A recent book chapter by our faculty was just published on citizen science through the National Science Teachers Association and a book on the Interplay of Creativity and Giftedness in Science edited by our faculty will be out soon.  In addition to our outreach with children, our faculty members provide research-based science content to informal science educators, private & public school teachers, and university partners.

Are the children safe in a science laboratory?   Safety is our highest priority.   The partygoers will be well supervised by our faculty members who have over 15 years experience supervising young scientists.  They will engage in age appropriate tasks that take into account their social and motor skills.  We ask that party goers dress appropriate to being in a laboratory:  a) no open shoes—shoes must be closed toed such as sneakers or work shoes; b) comfortable clothes but nothing flowing.  We will provide safety equipment including goggles and gloves.   

Who are the parties for?   We cater to science aficionados and have extensive experience working with gifted students and adults.   Since our parties are held in our laboratory, the parties are appropriate for students in 3^rd-12^th grade (see the theme descriptions for specific grade suggestions).  We can work with you to develop a party for children in K-2^nd grade as well as for adults.   

What size party can we have?  In order to provide an authentic hands-on scientific experience for the party goers, the number of participants is limited.   We can accommodate 10-15 participants with the total number of attendees, including other party attendees such as parents, ranging from 15-20.   

Can we come early and decorate?  Parents may set up 1/2 hour prior to the party.   The party will take place in two rooms, the laboratory and the library/conference room.  Parents may decorate the conference room if they wish.   We provide tablecloths and there is an option for balloons.   You can bring special tablecloths or other decorations.  However, wall or ceiling decorations, streamers, silly string, and confetti are not allowed.  Some of the party plans have a piñata option.

Can I bring my own goodie bags and/or balloons?    Our Science Master party plan includes goodie bags.  If you are using a different plan, you are welcome to bring your own.  All of the plans have the option of balloons or you may also bring your own balloons.  However, wall and ceiling decorations are not permitted. 

Do you provide party room set up and clean up?  We will set up the library/conference room for the party and clean up afterwards.  The host will set up and clean up the room and help serve guests.  Parents should relax and have fun!

Do hosts receive tips?  We recommend parents tip their host if they are pleased with service.

What are the food options?   All of the party plans include a smart food popcorn snack.  Some of our party plans include pizza.  You can bring your own food or have it delivered but there is a small surcharge for this option.  However, there is no surcharge to bring in bring cake, cupcakes, or reasonable quantities of prepackaged dry snacks or candy.  (Please see cake options below.)  Though we do not have a way to cook, chill, or freeze your food, we can help you get it from your car to the library/conference room and set it up.  For safety reasons, no food or beverage is permitted in the laboratory.   Outside caterers are permitted but may require extending your party length.  Each person gets one water or juice box.  Additional beverages are available for purchase or you may bring additional beverages.   Alcohol is not permitted. 

What are the cake options?   If you would like, you can add a cake to your party plan.  There is no surcharge to bring in bring cake, cupcakes, or reasonable quantities of prepackaged dry snacks or candy.  If you will be bringing a cake, please bring candles.  For your convenience, we also have candles available for purchase.

 Do I need to stay at the party?        The party host is required to stay at the party.

 Is each guest, including adults, required to have a completed/signed waiver?  For insurance purposes, all guests must have a waiver completed and signed by a parent/guardian. For your convenience, family members aged 17 years or younger may be included on the same waiver.

 Is a deposit required?    A non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your party. The balance is due and payable on the day of your party.

What if I need to reschedule my party?  We require at least 14 days advance notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your party.  If you reschedule your party within 14 days of your party date, you will be charged a $50 processing fee.   If you reschedule your party within 2 days of your party date, you will be charged a $100 processing fee. If you cancel your party within 14 days of your party date, you will be responsible for 50% of the total party price. If you cancel your party within 2 days of your party date, you will be responsible for 100% of the total party price. Remember that your deposit is non-refundable (sorry-no exceptions).