Smithsonian Institution’s National Postal Museum offers five free virtual learning activities

By Linn’s Staff

The Smithsonian Institution’s National Postal Museum offers a free virtual stamp camp beginning June 26.

The camp consists of five activities taking place from June through August. The museum said the activities offer hands-on experiences and engaging challenges.

Recommended for ages 6– 12, the program’s activities can be completed at each participant’s own pace.

The postal-themed activities follow the STEAM educational approach that uses five subjects (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) to guide student inquiry, dialogue and critical thinking.

In the case of the stamp camp, the activities are split between science, technology, arts, mathematics, problem solving and engineering, or STAMP.

The science activity begins June 26 and looks into how paper is made, among other topics. Participants will have the opportunity to make paper from recycled materials at home.

The July 10 technology segment explores how the United States Postal Service has adapted to new technologies, and the activity lets participants try building their own green energy mail truck.

On July 24, participants will investigate stamp art and graphic design techniques before using the same materials as professional stamp artists to create stamps of their own.

The Aug. 7 math activity allows participants to “master the art of postal math” and explore the topics of mail sorting, ZIP codes and mail delivery.

On Aug. 21, participants will learn how the Postal Service delivers different types of objects before designing a package that can protect a single potato chip.

The stamp camp also includes a weekly extension created by Katie Kirk, the National Postal Museum’s 2024 guest artist. Kirk created the artwork for the 2024 Love forever stamp (Scott 5826) and the four 2023 Winter Woodland Animals stamps (5822-5825).

Registration information can be found on the museum’s website. An adult guardian must complete registration on behalf of young learners.

For more information on the National Postal Museum, call 202-633-1000 or visit the museum online.

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