Take Eight with Kosmic Kelly

When she slips on the white lab coat and rainbow wig, Fitchburg’s Kelly Lavoie transforms into a beaker wielding wizard. As Kosmic Kelly, the mom-of-two combines her backgrounds in biology, music and theater to make science cool - drawing kids in with interactive experiments and wacky, educational fun. She’s been performing (and teaching) at libraries, classrooms and birthday parties for over a decade.

Where did your love of science come from? Was there a particular subject that got you hooked? When I was a child I spent most of my time exploring the wilderness. I have always been curious about smaller habitats, particularly insects, and their role in our ecosystem. I chose to study Environmental Biology because I love life in all its forms. 1.

How did ‘Kosmic Kelly’ come about? When my boys were little we would often visit library events. I would feel inspired to teach and entertain the children so I asked if I could volunteer. The community was immediately supportive. And just like that, ten years have gone by! I now manage a business I love and I am part of an amazing network of parents, educators, and entertainers! 2.

What can someone expect at one of your science shows? Expect to be entertained, educated, and enthused! And, hopefully, enjoy your time. 3.

Clearly, you do this work to inspire an interest in science for kids. Have there been any reactions over the years that stand out to you? It’s always a joy to see a child replicate an exper iment I taught. I try to ensure that most of what I demonstrate can be done safely at home. Also, I love to make people laugh or do something com pletely unexpected and goofy. To see the expressions, for me, is one of the best parts of getting to do this. Sometimes, I think I am having the most fun! 4.

What is your favorite children’s book to read to your kids? Tough question! There are so many great books. I would have to choose “Little Bear” and “Frog and Toad.” They were my favorite childhood books. What one “mom chore” would you forever outsource if you could? Now this is an easy one. The bathroom! 5. 6. 7. What are some simple things can parents do to get their kids interested in science? Spend time observing nature. Take something apart to see how it works. Ask a question, research a topic of interest, solve a puzzle or a prob lem, and create something new. Science is all around us.

8. What are your plans for the future as Kosmic Kelly? My only affirmative plan is to continue to do what I love and be grateful for every opportunity! I do hope to incorporate more music and art, new stage show ideas, and ultimately I’d love to have a community space for after school programs, aka “The Kosmic Kids Club.”