Tomorrow's scientists have just been given a place to hang out today.
The Mad Molecule Science Store, which opened in the Rancho Del Mar shopping center in Aptos about six weeks ago, is a haven for science products and experiments, a place where kids can find invention kits, chemistry lights, build-your-own-volcanoes and a brew-your-own-root beer set, plus much more.
There is a small theater in the back of the store, playing endless loops of "Mr. Wizard" and "Bill Nye the Science Guy," replete with popcorn and coffee for parents. There are tables in the center of the store with open experiments, ready to be tinkered with.
"It's something that starts young," she said. "I honestly feel that tomorrow's scientists are going to do everything that today's world needs. They're going to cure the incurable diseases. They're going to save our planet. And they're going to do it by learning to love science."
The Mad Molecule recently gained its 501c3 nonprofit status, which has given Tyler the unique opportunity -- in the middle of a retail shopping center, in the midst of an economic downturn -- to focus on teaching and educational opportunities, and worry less about sales.
"I decided to try to create a store where you would just come and play, and there would be no pressure to buy anything," she said. "For me it's about enjoying being in the store with the kids."
Tyler, a La Selva Beach resident who is married to a scientist, plans on hosting classes from Santa Cruz County schools, throwing science-themed birthday parties and engaging children in science classes.
The overall goal of the shop is to promote the idea that science is fun, Tyler said. She interviewed hundreds of children at her tutoring center to figure out what they'd like to see in the store. A lot of the answers involved explosions.
"It's not hard to learn, and it's not intimidating," Tyler said. "This is something that girls can enjoy equally as well as boys. You can't do these experiments incorrectly."
Store manager Josh Morris said that the shop is doing well so far.
"It's a really fun experience for the kids and the staff," Morris said. "At this point we're trying to make sure that we get new science stuff in here every week."
Tracie Gomez, a Watsonville resident, said that the store is perfect for children. Gomez recently spent time in the store with her daughter.
"It's really nice having something fun and different nearby," Gomez said. "This store is all about the children, and I can't wait to get my daughter's classroom involved."
Kiana Shekarchi, age 7, agreed with her mother.
"My favorite subject in school is science," she said. "That's because of the store. It's really fun."
Tyler, who is looking to network with local teachers as well as to find a volunteer grant writer, said that she has realized a dream.
"When I see the fun that kids are having in that store, it just makes me feel like dancing," she said
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