Dalhousie Inspiring Future Scientists Society (DIFSS)

Dalhousie Inspiring Future Scientists Society (DIFSS) empowers Dalhousie students to bring hands-on, age-appropriate science experiences to children at the IWK and the Ronald McDonald House. Each week, volunteers lead a 60-minute session (in partnership with hospital staff) that introduces basic science concepts through safe, interactive activities designed for ages 5–11. Examples of activities include safe demonstrations and simple experiments such as buoyancy with foil boats, color and leaf-based explorations, and constructing simple mechanisms to illustrate physics and engineering ideas. Our goal is to spark curiosity and foster a love of science in children who are dealing with illness or supporting a sick family member, while also giving Dalhousie students a meaningful, flexible volunteer opportunity. Activities are carefully planned and reviewed with hospital staff, and all volunteers receive training on child safety, communication, and safety protocols. Sessions are conducted under supervision and with sensitivity to each child’s emotional and medical situation. DIFSS is particularly valuable because it offers a flexible model that fits busy student schedules; there is no mandatory weekly commitment. Through consistent, supportive interactions, the program aims to create memorable, educational experiences for the children and rewarding, growth-oriented experiences for volunteers.