"Bring your child to work day" 2024 at the Department of Applied Physics

On 22. November 2024 was the annual "Bring your child to work day" in which Aalto University participated this year. At the Physics Department, we invited our staff along with their children to an ice cream making workshop hosted by Senior Lecturer Jami Kinnunen and two of his students, Onni Tuikkanen and Andreas Meijer. The children got to choose a flavor before cooling down the mixture in a plastic bag using ice and salt, then slowly churning the ice cream using their hands. Kinnunen explained in simple terms why this cooling effect happens and mentioned the second law of thermodynamics. While waiting for their ice cream, the children also got to try out a thermometer and could ask questions. The children had a good time with their parents and even let them taste some of the ice cream- but only after the children decorated their ready product with whipped cream, marshmallows and sprinkles, a clear highlight of the program.

The parents got to spend time with their children at their workplace and the day was completed showing their offices and work stations, eating lunch and visiting other campus places. Many other Aalto employees also brought children to campus- the event clearly resonated with many wishing to engage their children with the work place. 

As a family friendly institution, the Physics Department is committed to providing another opportunity for our employees to bring their children to work also in the next year. A big thanks to Kinnunen and his wonderful students!