It isn’t always easy to get your kids interested in science. Science is often seen as boring, technical, and downright complicated. But the reality is, science is important, and it can be fun – especially for kids! It’s just a matter of finding the right experiments to entertain your little ones.
With school back in full swing, there’s never been a better time to try out some science experiments with your kids. Encouraging them to get involved with science now, opens up a world of opportunities for them in the future.
If you’re looking for some fun kid science experiments, here are four we think you’ll enjoy.
Homemade Lightsaber
Calling all Star Wars fans! Although the lightsaber is fictional (yet legendary), it’s something that is fascinating to children and adults alike. Although building a lightsaber isn’t your typical science experiment, it’s a great opportunity to teach your kids about electrical charges, heat, and sound. Plus, it uses common household items such as cans, light switches, and wire.
To learn more about how to create your very own lightsaber, visit Steven Spangler Science’s website here.
Mentos Geyser
This is one your kids will probably enjoy way more than you will — especially since it does get a bit messy. This classic science experiment is a favorite among children. Surprisingly, though, many scientists are stumped as to why the reaction happens. Many speculate that when you drop the Mentos into the soda, you break the surface tension. And when they sink to the bottom, all of the CO2 is released and it pushes the soda up with incredible force. Regardless of why it happens, it’s sure to bring a smile to your child’s face!
Want to create a Mentos geyser with your kids? Visit The Kitchen Pantry Scientist’s website to learn more.
Homemade Compost Pile
If the idea and benefits of compost is largely unknown to you, you’re not alone. However, compost is incredibly beneficial to the environment because you reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.
Did you know that more than half of the trash that your family throws away can be used in a compost pile? This simple experiment is a great way to teach your kids about recycling and it makes great fertilizer for your garden.
For tips on how to get started with your compost pile, visit Family Education’s website here.
Rain in a Bag
There are endless ways to teach your kids about evaporation, and we happen to think this one is a lot of fun! For this activity, all you need to do is draw a nature scene on paper (complete with clouds and a lake or ocean of course), trace it onto a clear baggy with permanent marker, fill up the baggie with water, and hang it on a sunny window. As the days go by, the water will evaporate into the clouds. Once they can’t hold any more water, it will rain!
For more detailed instructions on how to do this experiment, visit Family Education’s website here.
We want to know: Which one of these experiments are you most excited to try? And feel free to post pictures of you doing these experiments on our Facebook page. We’d love to see science in action!
