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Mini-Investigators

Court TV gives kids a lesson in solving crimes

A A A Comments Thursday, Jul 3 2003

SUN 7/6
Fingerprinting. Fiber analysis. Trace evidence. Not your average Sunday with the kids. Court TV's Mobile Investigation Unit will swing by Houston this week, introducing youngsters to the fascinating world of forensics with a simulated investigation: the case of a missing laptop. "It's a fun caper to solve using forensic science," says MIU coordinator Samantha Miller. "Children, teens and adults love solving puzzles. For younger kids, it's about the sheer joy of simple puzzle solving and having the pleasure of pressing buttons that make noise."

Courtesy of Court TV

Frank Lee Forensics

Courtesy of A.D. Players

The cast of Ruth

"Squeaky Clean" at the Museum of Health and Science

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Interactive kiosks will guide children through the mystery while teaching them about forensic technology, such as fingerprinting techniques, fiber and hair analysis, and footprint and handwriting examination. But don't worry about frightening your little one: "The exhibit was developed carefully, designed not to shock but to interest the audience," says Miller.

The Court TV forensics character Frank Lee Forensics is taking part in the tour; he'll be showing people how to do forensics experiments at home. And kids will get to create their own "forensic profiles," complete with free photos and digital fingerprinting. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, July 6; 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday, July 7. Katy Mills Mall, 500 Katy Mills Circle. For information, call 281-644-5000 or visit www.courttv.com/tour. Free. -- Amy Margolin

SAT 7/5
Early Indoctrination
The moral of the story of Ruth: Things may suck now, but persevere, and all will be well. A.D. Players offers an easy way to educate your kid about the Bible. Jeannette Clift George's new play, Ruth, tells her tale though drama, song and dance. 7 p.m. Tuesdays, and 10:30 a.m. Saturdays, through July 26. St. Luke's Rotunda Theater, 3471 Westheimer. For information, call 713-526-2721 or visit www.adplayers.org. $8. -- Cathy Matusow

SAT 7/5
Dirt Alert
Basic hygiene: Some kids just don't get it. Give those germ magnets a crash course in filth removal at the Museum of Health and Science's "Squeaky Clean" class for children grades kindergarten through second. You can't afford to live in fear of pinworms. Noon and 1:30 p.m. Saturdays throughout July. Museum of Health and Science, 1515 Hermann Drive. For information, call 713-942-7054. $3 to $5. -- Troy Schulze

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