biology experiments for elementary students

Discover the Joy of Science: 16 Experiments Perfect for Elementary Students

WOW! The 5th graders at Northridge Elementary School participated in our lesson NEWTON’S 2nd LAW OF MOTION. Their experiments helped them understand force, mass, and acceleration. https://t.co/IRMc0iv6RJ pic.twitter.com/a93gleNPnL — WPAFB EO Office (@wpafbeo) March 2, 2022

20 Fun Biology Experiments for Elementary School Students

Are you seeking engaging, interactive biology experiments to captivate elementary school students? This blog post will explore 20 exciting biology experiments that will spark curiosity and promote hands-on learning. Let's dive in!

Are you seeking engaging, interactive biology experiments to captivate elementary school students? Look no further! This blog post will explore 20 exciting biology experiments that will spark curiosity and promote hands-on learning. Let's dive in!

Exploring Plant Life

1. growing seeds in different conditions.

By conducting this simple experiment, teach your students about the role of sunlight, water, and soil in plant growth. Have your students plant seeds in various conditions, such as different amounts of sunlight or soil types. Observe and compare the growth of the plants over time.

2. Leaf Chromatography

Introduce the concept of chromatography by examining the different pigments in leaves. Have your students collect leaves from different plants and use filter paper and rubbing alcohol to separate the pigments. This experiment will allow them to explore the diversity of natural colors.

3. DIY Terrariums

Bring the water cycle and ecosystems to life with this hands-on experiment. Guide your students in creating miniature terrariums using glass jars, soil, rocks, and small plants. Discuss how the plants release moisture through transpiration, which condenses on the jar walls and falls back as precipitation.

4. Parts of a Flower Dissection

Engage your students in plant anatomy with this dissection activity. Provide flowers for each student or group and guide them through identifying the different parts of a flower, such as petals, sepals, stamens, and pistils. This experiment will deepen their understanding of how flowers function and reproduce.

5. Photosynthesis in Action

Unleash the power of sunlight with this photosynthesis experiment. Ask your students to collect leaves and cover a portion of each leaf with aluminum foil. After a few days, remove the foil and observe the color change in the uncovered area, indicating chlorophyll production through photosynthesis.

Investigating the World of Microorganisms

6. yogurt bacteria culture.

Introduce your students to beneficial bacteria by guiding them in culturing yogurt at home. Discuss the role of bacteria in our digestive system and how they help break down food. This experiment will provide a hands-on experience in understanding the importance of these microorganisms.

7. Pond Water Microscope Investigation

Take your students on a microscopic adventure by exploring microorganisms in pond water. Provide microscopes and guide them in collecting water samples from a nearby pond or stream. Observe and discuss the diverse microorganisms, such as amoebas, paramecia, and algae.

8. Bread Mold Growth

Uncover the fascinating world of fungi by investigating bread mold growth. Ask your students to place slices of bread in different environments, such as a sealed bag, a moist container, or exposed to sunlight. Monitor and record mold growth over time, discussing the conditions that promote fungal growth.

9. Ant Farm Exploration

Invite your students to observe ant behavior and learn about insects by setting up a simple ant farm. Provide an ant farm kit or guide them in creating one using a transparent container, sand, and ants. Observe how ants build tunnels, communicate, and work together as a colony.

10. Bacterial Handprint Experiment

Highlight the importance of handwashing with this eye-opening experiment. Ask your students to press their hands onto agar plates or petri dishes before and after washing their hands thoroughly. Incubate the plates and observe the bacterial growth, emphasizing the need for proper hand hygiene.

Animal Kingdom Adventures

11. butterfly life cycle observation.

Embark on a captivating journey through the life cycle of butterflies. Provide caterpillars or chrysalises for your students to raise and observe. Document the stages of metamorphosis from caterpillar to butterfly, and discuss the importance of butterflies in pollination.

12. Owl Pellet Dissection

Unravel the secrets of food chains and predator-prey relationships with an owl pellet dissection. Provide owl pellets for your students to dissect and identify the bones of prey animals. This experiment will deepen their understanding of the interactions within an ecosystem.

13. Eggshell Toothpaste Experiment

Small Bites Pediatric Dentistry

Investigate the impact of different substances on tooth enamel using eggshells. Guide your students in soaking eggshells in various liquids like vinegar, soda, or fruit juice. Observe and discuss the effects of these substances on the eggshells, relating them to dental health.

14. Fish Tank Ecosystem

Create a mini aquarium in your classroom to study the interactions between fish and their environment. Discuss the concept of ecosystems, including the nitrogen cycle and food webs. Your students will be able to observe aquatic life and understand the delicate balance within an ecosystem.

15. Camouflage in Nature

Unleash your students' creativity while exploring the concept of camouflage. Provide paper animals and guide them in designing patterns that blend with different environments. Test their designs by placing the paper animals in corresponding backgrounds and discussing how camouflage aids in survival.

Human Body Exploration

16. diy lung model.

Bring the respiratory system to life with a DIY lung model. Using balloons, plastic bottles, and straws, guide your students in creating a model demonstrating how air moves in and out of our lungs during breathing. This experiment will enhance their understanding of our amazing respiratory system.

17. Taste Bud Mapping

Delve into the sense of taste with a simple taste bud mapping experiment. Provide taste test samples, such as sweet, salty, sour, and bitter substances, and guide your students in mapping the different taste sensations on their tongues. Discuss the role of taste buds in detecting flavors.

18. Skeletal System with Q-tips

Build a model of the human skeleton using Q-tips to understand bone structure. Guide your students in arranging Q-tips to represent bones and discuss the different types of bones in our bodies. This hands-on activity will reinforce their knowledge of the skeletal system.

19. DIY Digestive System

Create a hands-on model of the digestive system to illustrate the journey of food through our bodies. Using household materials like plastic bags, crackers, and water, guide your students in simulating the process of digestion from the mouth to the intestines. This experiment will make learning about digestion fun and memorable.

20. Heart Rate Investigation

Measure and compare heart rates under different conditions to introduce your students to the cardiovascular system. Ask them to take their pulse before and after various activities, such as exercise or relaxation. Discuss how the heart responds to changes in activity level, emphasizing the importance of cardiovascular health.

Partnering with a Lessonpal Tutor

You may also consider partnering with a Lessonpal Biology tutor who can provide additional guidance tailored to your student's learning needs.

Remember, education is all about exploration and discovery! Encourage your students to embrace curiosity and dive into these exciting biology experiments. So why not take advantage of the expertise of a Lessonpal Biology tutor to make the learning experience even more enriching and enjoyable? These 20 fun biology experiments will engage your elementary school students and foster a deeper understanding of various biological concepts. To further enhance their learning experience, I recommend exploring additional resources for teachers and students, such as online articles, books, or educational websites dedicated to biology experiments.

Additional Resources:

In addition to these 20 fun biology experiments, plenty of other resources are available to enhance your students' learning experience further. Here are a few suggestions:

• Online Articles: Explore websites like National Geographic Kids, Science Buddies, and Education.com for many articles and resources on biology experiments for elementary school students. These platforms often provide step-by-step instructions, explanations of scientific concepts, and additional experiment ideas.
• Books: Visit your local library or bookstore for biology experiment books for elementary school students. Look for titles like "The Everything Kids' Science Experiments Book" by Tom Robinson or "Janice VanCleave's Biology For Every Kid: 101 Easy Experiments That Really Work" by Janice VanCleave. These books offer a variety of engaging experiments with detailed explanations and background information.
• Educational Websites : Check out Mystery Science, Khan Academy, and STEM Learning websites for interactive biology activities and lessons. These platforms provide video tutorials, quizzes, and hands-on activities that can supplement your classroom experiments.
• Science Kits: Consider investing in biology experiment kits for elementary school students. Companies like Thames & Kosmos and Steve Spangler Science offer kits with all the materials and instructions needed to conduct various experiments. These kits often include detailed explanations of the scientific principles behind each experiment.

Remember, the key to successful learning is providing various resources and opportunities for exploration. By incorporating these additional resources into your lesson plans, you can create a well-rounded and enriching biology curriculum for your elementary school students. Go ahead and inspire your students to embrace curiosity, dive into these exciting biology experiments, and explore the vast world of science!

Introduction to Python for Kids: A Fun and Easy Way to Learn Programming

Children programming at a young age has numerous benefits. We will explore the exciting world of Python programming for kids, highlighting its fun and easy approach to learning programming.

Exploring the Benefits of Art Therapy for Children with Autism

Art therapy has proven to be an effective and beneficial intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Let's explore the benefits of art therapy for children with ASD in more detail in this blog post

Understanding Autism in Girls: Signs, Symptoms, and Support for Parents and Teachers

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects individuals' social interaction, communication, and behavior. This blog post will explore 10 major signs/traits and effective ways parents and teachers can support autistic girls.

15 Must-Read Science Fiction Books for Middle Schoolers

Science fiction is a captivating genre that sparks the imagination and transports readers to exciting new worlds. Let's dive into the fascinating world of science fiction!

The Impact of Spanish Movies on Language Learning

Spanish language learning can be an exciting and rewarding journey. We will explore how Spanish movies can positively impact language learning and provide valuable tips for maximizing language acquisition through cinematic experiences.

10 Easy Taylor Swift Songs on Guitar - No Capo

Discover 10 beginner-friendly Taylor Swift guitar songs, from "Maroon" to "Teardrops on My Guitar." Learn simple chord progressions with easy tutorials in this blog post.

Your Journey to Fluency: Best Way to Learn Japanese Online

Learning a new language opens up opportunities, and Japanese is no exception. In this blog post, we will explore the best way to learn Japanese online and provide valuable tips and resources to help you achieve fluency.

Learn 20 Best Easy Disney Piano Songs- Tutorials

Learn 20 easy Disney piano songs from "A Whole New World" to "We Don't Talk About Bruno" that can be played by anyone with these easy-to-follow tutorials.

Becoming an Online Graphic Designer: A Step-by-Step Journey

Graphic design is a thriving field in the digital age, with an increasing demand for skilled professionals who can create visually appealing designs that captivate audiences. This step-by-step guide will help you embark on your journey.

Java Programming: A Gateway to Software Development for College and High School Students

Java programming is a valuable skill that opens doors to various opportunities in the software development field. In this blog post, we will delve into the benefits of learning Java, and the career paths available for Java developers.

Find your ideal tutor

Get free trials and special offers.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

• FREE Experiments
• Kitchen Science
• Climate Change
• Egg Experiments
• Fairy Tale Science
• Edible Science
• Human Health
• Inspirational Women
• Forces and Motion
• Science Fair Projects
• STEM Challenges
• Science Sparks Books
• Contact Science Sparks
• Science Resources for Home and School

Easy Biology Experiments for Kids

September 17, 2024 By Emma Vanstone Leave a Comment

Biology is the study of life and living things , including plants, animals and microorganisms. Biologists refer to living things as organisms. This collection of biology experiments for kids covers some of the most important concepts in biology

There are many different branches of biology, including:

Ecology – the relationships between organisms

Zoology – the study of animals

Taxonomy – classification of organisms

Anatomy – the structure of organisms

Botany – the study of plants

Microbiology – the study of tiny organisms

Physiology – functions of living organisms

Biology is a vast and exciting area of science covering everything from the smallest virus to evolution, ecosystems and the climate.

Top 10 Biology Experiments for Kids

1. candy dna model.

This candy DNA model is a great way to learn about the double helix structure of DNA and tastes great, too!

2. Colourful flowers – transpiration investigation

Place white flowers in a pot of food colouring and water to change their colour. This activity is a brilliant visual way to learn about transpiration and transport in plants .

3. Investigate the effect of increasing temperatures on transpiration

Use celery and food colouring to find out how increasing temperature affects the rate of transpiration in plants.

4. Osmosis and eggs

Learn about osmosis with an egg without a shell. The shell is removed by soaking the egg in vinegar. Place the egg in water and watch it grow in size as water moves into it.

This is a fantastic visual way to demonstrate osmosis that always makes a big impact.

5. Edible butterfly life cycle

Make an edible butterfly life cycle using fruit, vegetables, pasta or sweets.

6. What Did Dinosaurs Eat? – Dinosaur Poop Investigation

Discover what dinosaurs ate with a fun dinosaur poo investigation ! This is a wonderful activity for younger children who love searching through the playdough for clues to what dinosaurs ate.

7. How does exercise affect heart rate?

Find out how exercise affects heart rate with a simple investigation where children measure their heart rate before and after exercise.

8. What are teeth made from?

Use eggs to find out what teeth are made from and discover the food items that cause them to stain or decay.

9. Digestive system model

Model the digestive system with biscuits, orange juice and tights. This is a slightly gross activity that kids of all ages will love.

10. Make a model lung

Find out how lungs work with a DIY lung model made from a plastic bottle, straw and balloon.

That’s my personal top 10 biology experiments , but there’s plenty more! Learn about water, cells, plants, enzymes and surface tension with the activities below.

All about Water

All living things need water; luckily, the Earth has a lot of water! Water is made up of one oxygen atom and two hydrogen atoms. This edible model of a water molecule shows the structure.

The yellow sweets represent hydrogen, and the purple sweet represents oxygen. The formula for a water molecule is H 2 O .

Water is a polar molecule. It has a positive end and a negative end. The negative end of one water molecule is attracted to the positive end of another water molecule, resulting in a hydrogen bond between the two molecules. This attraction between water molecules means water has a high surface tension. There are lots of simple ways to demonstrate surface tension. An investigation using a bowl of water with pepper sprinkled over the top is good to start with.

Surface Tension Demonstration

You’ll need.

A bowl of water

Ground black pepper

Washing up liquid ( dish soap )

Instructions

Fill the bowl almost to the top with tap water.

Sprinkle black paper over the surface.

Place a drop of washing-up liquid in the centre of the water.

The pepper should move very quickly to the sides.

How does it work?

The washing-up liquid reduces the surface tension of the water, which allows the water particles at the surface to spread out, taking the pepper with them!

More surface tension demonstrations

Find out how many drops of water you can fit on a coin with Rookie Parenting.

Use surface tension to make lollysticks move in water.

Try the classic magic milk experiment . Adding dish soap makes food colouring in milk explode with colour!

Enzyme Demonstrations

Organisms use enzymes to speed up chemical reactions. Enzymes are biological catalysts. The easiest way to learn about enzymes is to use them! A microorganism called yeast is used in bread making as it contains enzymes that convert sugar and starch ( from the sugar and flour in the bread mix ) into carbon dioxide and ethanol. The carbon dioxide gas makes the dough rise. Giving bread the light, airy texture we all enjoy.

Enzymes only function in the right environment for them, which is different for different enzymes. Yeast needs warm, moist conditions, which is why bread dough is left somewhere warm to rise before baking.

Learn about enzymes with pizza or bread dough

You can learn about the enzymes in yeast by making pizza or bread dough ! If the dough is left somewhere cool, it won’t rise as much as dough left in a warm place, as the enzymes in the yeast won’t work as well.

Cell structure and function activities

All organisms are made up of one or more cells.

Bacteria and protozoa are examples of single-celled organisms.

A group of cells working together is called a tissue. Many tissues working together are an organ.

Cells contain organelles, which allow them to function.

Plant cell models

Making a cell model is a fun way to learn about cell structure.

Jelly/jello or a plate

Candy/sweets

Make your jello as per the instructions in a lightly greased container.

When the jello is set, gently tip it into the container in which you want to make the cell.

Add sweets to look like each organelle.

Use toothpicks and stickers as signs to label the cell model .

Another idea is to combine this activity with the pizza dough to learn about enzymes and create a pizza model of a cell!

Learn more about cells, organelles and the difference between animal and plant cells with my animal and plant cell revision cards.

Specialised cells

Find out about specialised cells with a 3D model of a neurone cell .

Photosynthesis Experiments

Photosynthesis is the process by which organisms ( mostly plants ) create energy. It occurs in organelles called chloroplasts .

Carbon dioxide + water  (and light ) ———> glucose and oxygen

The energy for the reaction comes from sunlight. Photosynthesis is an essential process for life on Earth. It creates oxygen and also helps to remove the carbon dioxide created by human activity.

Plants use the glucose made during photosynthesis for cellular respiration .

Photosynthesis demonstration

Science Buddies have a great photosynthesis investigation you can try.

Plant structure and function

Dissect a flower.

Dissecting a flower is a great way to learn about the different parts of a plant and their function.

Any flowers with large parts – lily, daffodil, tulip

Magnifying glass

Lay the flowers out on a table. Try to identify the different parts.

Label areas of the different parts of a flower on a sheet of white card or paper plate and match the dissected pieces to the correct label.

Another easy way to learn about plant structure and function is to make a 3D flower model .

Osmosis Experiments

Osmosis can be a tricky concept to get your head around as it is the movement of water molecules across a partially permeable membrane from a region of higher water concentration to a region of lower water concentration. This can be demonstrated using an egg!

You might be wondering how on Earth an egg with a shell can be used to demonstrate the movement of water, and you’re right to wonder. The first thing you have to do is remove the shell by soaking the egg in vinegar. The eggshell dissolves, leaving the semi-permeable membrane behind.

Containers big enough to hold an egg

Soak an egg in vinegar for 24 hours. Carefully remove the egg and rinse. You should be able to remove most of the shell. Leave it in vinegar for another 24 hours and then rinse again.

Place the egg in a cup or jar of water and leave for two hours. Water will move into the egg by osmosis as the concentration of water inside the egg is lower than outside. The egg will grow in size.

If the egg is placed in a concentrated sugar solution, water will move out of the egg into the sugar solution as the concentration of water inside the egg is greater than the sugar solution.

More Biology experiments and activities for kids

Find out why surface area to volume ratio is such an important concept in biology using sugar cubes.

Learn about Mitosis with paper plate models.

Extract your own DNA at home!

Demonstrate how diffusion works with squash or food colouring and water.

Make plasticine models of viruses to learn about their structure.

Learn about the structure of DNA with this candy model that shows the double helix structure of DNA.

Find out how trees disperse seeds with my selection of seed dispersal activities .

Model the digestive system with a pair of tights! This is an excellent way for children to really visualise how food passes through the human body.

Make a model of a pumping heart to discover why heart valves are so important.

Biology resources on the web

Learn.Genetics has lots of brilliant resources about genes, human health, neuroscience and ecology.

For younger children, check out Maddie Moate on YouTube . The channel covers topics from finding out how cinnamon grows to beekeeping, all explained in a fun and visual way.

Can you recommend any other biology experiments for kids for us to try?

Last Updated on September 17, 2024 by Emma Vanstone

Safety Notice

Science Sparks ( Wild Sparks Enterprises Ltd ) are not liable for the actions of activity of any person who uses the information in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources. Science Sparks assume no liability with regard to injuries or damage to property that may occur as a result of using the information and carrying out the practical activities contained in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources.

These activities are designed to be carried out by children working with a parent, guardian or other appropriate adult. The adult involved is fully responsible for ensuring that the activities are carried out safely.

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Grades 6-12
• School Leaders

Teach students checking vs. savings accounts!

72 Easy Science Experiments Using Materials You Already Have On Hand

Because science doesn’t have to be complicated.

If there is one thing that is guaranteed to get your students excited, it’s a good science experiment! While some experiments require expensive lab equipment or dangerous chemicals, there are plenty of cool projects you can do with regular household items. We’ve rounded up a big collection of easy science experiments that anybody can try, and kids are going to love them!

Easy Chemistry Science Experiments

Easy physics science experiments, easy biology and environmental science experiments, easy engineering experiments and stem challenges.

1. Taste the Rainbow

Teach your students about diffusion while creating a beautiful and tasty rainbow! Tip: Have extra Skittles on hand so your class can eat a few!

Learn more: Skittles Diffusion

2. Crystallize sweet treats

Crystal science experiments teach kids about supersaturated solutions. This one is easy to do at home, and the results are absolutely delicious!

Learn more: Candy Crystals

3. Make a volcano erupt

This classic experiment demonstrates a chemical reaction between baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and vinegar (acetic acid), which produces carbon dioxide gas, water, and sodium acetate.

Learn more: Best Volcano Experiments

4. Make elephant toothpaste

This fun project uses yeast and a hydrogen peroxide solution to create overflowing “elephant toothpaste.” Tip: Add an extra fun layer by having kids create toothpaste wrappers for plastic bottles.

5. Blow the biggest bubbles you can

Add a few simple ingredients to dish soap solution to create the largest bubbles you’ve ever seen! Kids learn about surface tension as they engineer these bubble-blowing wands.

Learn more: Giant Soap Bubbles

6. Demonstrate the “magic” leakproof bag

All you need is a zip-top plastic bag, sharp pencils, and water to blow your kids’ minds. Once they’re suitably impressed, teach them how the “trick” works by explaining the chemistry of polymers.

Learn more: Leakproof Bag

7. Use apple slices to learn about oxidation

Have students make predictions about what will happen to apple slices when immersed in different liquids, then put those predictions to the test. Have them record their observations.

Learn more: Apple Oxidation

8. Float a marker man

Their eyes will pop out of their heads when you “levitate” a stick figure right off the table! This experiment works due to the insolubility of dry-erase marker ink in water, combined with the lighter density of the ink.

Learn more: Floating Marker Man

9. Discover density with hot and cold water

There are a lot of easy science experiments you can do with density. This one is extremely simple, involving only hot and cold water and food coloring, but the visuals make it appealing and fun.

Learn more: Layered Water

10. Layer more liquids

This density demo is a little more complicated, but the effects are spectacular. Slowly layer liquids like honey, dish soap, water, and rubbing alcohol in a glass. Kids will be amazed when the liquids float one on top of the other like magic (except it is really science).

Learn more: Layered Liquids

11. Grow a carbon sugar snake

Easy science experiments can still have impressive results! This eye-popping chemical reaction demonstration only requires simple supplies like sugar, baking soda, and sand.

Learn more: Carbon Sugar Snake

12. Mix up some slime

Tell kids you’re going to make slime at home, and watch their eyes light up! There are a variety of ways to make slime, so try a few different recipes to find the one you like best.

13. Make homemade bouncy balls

These homemade bouncy balls are easy to make since all you need is glue, food coloring, borax powder, cornstarch, and warm water. You’ll want to store them inside a container like a plastic egg because they will flatten out over time.

Learn more: Make Your Own Bouncy Balls

14. Create eggshell chalk

Eggshells contain calcium, the same material that makes chalk. Grind them up and mix them with flour, water, and food coloring to make your very own sidewalk chalk.

Learn more: Eggshell Chalk

15. Make naked eggs

This is so cool! Use vinegar to dissolve the calcium carbonate in an eggshell to discover the membrane underneath that holds the egg together. Then, use the “naked” egg for another easy science experiment that demonstrates osmosis .

Learn more: Naked Egg Experiment

16. Turn milk into plastic

This sounds a lot more complicated than it is, but don’t be afraid to give it a try. Use simple kitchen supplies to create plastic polymers from plain old milk. Sculpt them into cool shapes when you’re done!

17. Test pH using cabbage

Teach kids about acids and bases without needing pH test strips! Simply boil some red cabbage and use the resulting water to test various substances—acids turn red and bases turn green.

Learn more: Cabbage pH

18. Clean some old coins

Use common household items to make old oxidized coins clean and shiny again in this simple chemistry experiment. Ask kids to predict (hypothesize) which will work best, then expand the learning by doing some research to explain the results.

Learn more: Cleaning Coins

19. Pull an egg into a bottle

This classic easy science experiment never fails to delight. Use the power of air pressure to suck a hard-boiled egg into a jar, no hands required.

Learn more: Egg in a Bottle

20. Blow up a balloon (without blowing)

Chances are good you probably did easy science experiments like this when you were in school. The baking soda and vinegar balloon experiment demonstrates the reactions between acids and bases when you fill a bottle with vinegar and a balloon with baking soda.

21 Assemble a DIY lava lamp

This 1970s trend is back—as an easy science experiment! This activity combines acid-base reactions with density for a totally groovy result.

22. Explore how sugary drinks affect teeth

The calcium content of eggshells makes them a great stand-in for teeth. Use eggs to explore how soda and juice can stain teeth and wear down the enamel. Expand your learning by trying different toothpaste-and-toothbrush combinations to see how effective they are.

Learn more: Sugar and Teeth Experiment

23. Mummify a hot dog

If your kids are fascinated by the Egyptians, they’ll love learning to mummify a hot dog! No need for canopic jars , just grab some baking soda and get started.

24. Extinguish flames with carbon dioxide

This is a fiery twist on acid-base experiments. Light a candle and talk about what fire needs in order to survive. Then, create an acid-base reaction and “pour” the carbon dioxide to extinguish the flame. The CO2 gas acts like a liquid, suffocating the fire.

25. Send secret messages with invisible ink

Turn your kids into secret agents! Write messages with a paintbrush dipped in lemon juice, then hold the paper over a heat source and watch the invisible become visible as oxidation goes to work.

Learn more: Invisible Ink

26. Create dancing popcorn

This is a fun version of the classic baking soda and vinegar experiment, perfect for the younger crowd. The bubbly mixture causes popcorn to dance around in the water.

27. Shoot a soda geyser sky-high

You’ve always wondered if this really works, so it’s time to find out for yourself! Kids will marvel at the chemical reaction that sends diet soda shooting high in the air when Mentos are added.

Learn more: Soda Explosion

28. Send a teabag flying

Hot air rises, and this experiment can prove it! You’ll want to supervise kids with fire, of course. For more safety, try this one outside.

Learn more: Flying Tea Bags

29. Create magic milk

This fun and easy science experiment demonstrates principles related to surface tension, molecular interactions, and fluid dynamics.

Learn more: Magic Milk Experiment

30. Watch the water rise

Learn about Charles’s Law with this simple experiment. As the candle burns, using up oxygen and heating the air in the glass, the water rises as if by magic.

Learn more: Rising Water

31. Learn about capillary action

Kids will be amazed as they watch the colored water move from glass to glass, and you’ll love the easy and inexpensive setup. Gather some water, paper towels, and food coloring to teach the scientific magic of capillary action.

Learn more: Capillary Action

32. Give a balloon a beard

Equally educational and fun, this experiment will teach kids about static electricity using everyday materials. Kids will undoubtedly get a kick out of creating beards on their balloon person!

Learn more: Static Electricity

33. Find your way with a DIY compass

Here’s an old classic that never fails to impress. Magnetize a needle, float it on the water’s surface, and it will always point north.

Learn more: DIY Compass

34. Crush a can using air pressure

Sure, it’s easy to crush a soda can with your bare hands, but what if you could do it without touching it at all? That’s the power of air pressure!

35. Tell time using the sun

While people use clocks or even phones to tell time today, there was a time when a sundial was the best means to do that. Kids will certainly get a kick out of creating their own sundials using everyday materials like cardboard and pencils.

Learn more: Make Your Own Sundial

36. Launch a balloon rocket

Grab balloons, string, straws, and tape, and launch rockets to learn about the laws of motion.

37. Make sparks with steel wool

All you need is steel wool and a 9-volt battery to perform this science demo that’s bound to make their eyes light up! Kids learn about chain reactions, chemical changes, and more.

Learn more: Steel Wool Electricity

38. Levitate a Ping-Pong ball

Kids will get a kick out of this experiment, which is really all about Bernoulli’s principle. You only need plastic bottles, bendy straws, and Ping-Pong balls to make the science magic happen.

39. Whip up a tornado in a bottle

There are plenty of versions of this classic experiment out there, but we love this one because it sparkles! Kids learn about a vortex and what it takes to create one.

Learn more: Tornado in a Bottle

40. Monitor air pressure with a DIY barometer

This simple but effective DIY science project teaches kids about air pressure and meteorology. They’ll have fun tracking and predicting the weather with their very own barometer.

Learn more: DIY Barometer

41. Peer through an ice magnifying glass

Students will certainly get a thrill out of seeing how an everyday object like a piece of ice can be used as a magnifying glass. Be sure to use purified or distilled water since tap water will have impurities in it that will cause distortion.

Learn more: Ice Magnifying Glass

42. String up some sticky ice

Can you lift an ice cube using just a piece of string? This quick experiment teaches you how. Use a little salt to melt the ice and then refreeze the ice with the string attached.

Learn more: Sticky Ice

43. “Flip” a drawing with water

Light refraction causes some really cool effects, and there are multiple easy science experiments you can do with it. This one uses refraction to “flip” a drawing; you can also try the famous “disappearing penny” trick .

Learn more: Light Refraction With Water

44. Color some flowers

We love how simple this project is to re-create since all you’ll need are some white carnations, food coloring, glasses, and water. The end result is just so beautiful!

45. Use glitter to fight germs

Everyone knows that glitter is just like germs—it gets everywhere and is so hard to get rid of! Use that to your advantage and show kids how soap fights glitter and germs.

Learn more: Glitter Germs

46. Re-create the water cycle in a bag

You can do so many easy science experiments with a simple zip-top bag. Fill one partway with water and set it on a sunny windowsill to see how the water evaporates up and eventually “rains” down.

Learn more: Water Cycle

47. Learn about plant transpiration

Your backyard is a terrific place for easy science experiments. Grab a plastic bag and rubber band to learn how plants get rid of excess water they don’t need, a process known as transpiration.

Learn more: Plant Transpiration

48. Clean up an oil spill

Before conducting this experiment, teach your students about engineers who solve environmental problems like oil spills. Then, have your students use provided materials to clean the oil spill from their oceans.

Learn more: Oil Spill

49. Construct a pair of model lungs

Kids get a better understanding of the respiratory system when they build model lungs using a plastic water bottle and some balloons. You can modify the experiment to demonstrate the effects of smoking too.

Learn more: Model Lungs

50. Experiment with limestone rocks

Kids  love to collect rocks, and there are plenty of easy science experiments you can do with them. In this one, pour vinegar over a rock to see if it bubbles. If it does, you’ve found limestone!

Learn more: Limestone Experiments

51. Turn a bottle into a rain gauge

All you need is a plastic bottle, a ruler, and a permanent marker to make your own rain gauge. Monitor your measurements and see how they stack up against meteorology reports in your area.

Learn more: DIY Rain Gauge

52. Build up towel mountains

This clever demonstration helps kids understand how some landforms are created. Use layers of towels to represent rock layers and boxes for continents. Then pu-u-u-sh and see what happens!

Learn more: Towel Mountains

53. Take a play dough core sample

Learn about the layers of the earth by building them out of Play-Doh, then take a core sample with a straw. ( Love Play-Doh? Get more learning ideas here. )

Learn more: Play Dough Core Sampling

54. Project the stars on your ceiling

Use the video lesson in the link below to learn why stars are only visible at night. Then create a DIY star projector to explore the concept hands-on.

Learn more: DIY Star Projector

55. Make it rain

Use shaving cream and food coloring to simulate clouds and rain. This is an easy science experiment little ones will beg to do over and over.

Learn more: Shaving Cream Rain

56. Blow up your fingerprint

This is such a cool (and easy!) way to look at fingerprint patterns. Inflate a balloon a bit, use some ink to put a fingerprint on it, then blow it up big to see your fingerprint in detail.

57. Snack on a DNA model

Twizzlers, gumdrops, and a few toothpicks are all you need to make this super-fun (and yummy!) DNA model.

Learn more: Edible DNA Model

58. Dissect a flower

Take a nature walk and find a flower or two. Then bring them home and take them apart to discover all the different parts of flowers.

59. Craft smartphone speakers

No Bluetooth speaker? No problem! Put together your own from paper cups and toilet paper tubes.

Learn more: Smartphone Speakers

60. Race a balloon-powered car

Kids will be amazed when they learn they can put together this awesome racer using cardboard and bottle-cap wheels. The balloon-powered “engine” is so much fun too.

Learn more: Balloon-Powered Car

61. Build a Ferris wheel

You’ve probably ridden on a Ferris wheel, but can you build one? Stock up on wood craft sticks and find out! Play around with different designs to see which one works best.

Learn more: Craft Stick Ferris Wheel

62. Design a phone stand

There are lots of ways to craft a DIY phone stand, which makes this a perfect creative-thinking STEM challenge.

63. Conduct an egg drop

Put all their engineering skills to the test with an egg drop! Challenge kids to build a container from stuff they find around the house that will protect an egg from a long fall (this is especially fun to do from upper-story windows).

Learn more: Egg Drop Challenge Ideas

64. Engineer a drinking-straw roller coaster

STEM challenges are always a hit with kids. We love this one, which only requires basic supplies like drinking straws.

Learn more: Straw Roller Coaster

65. Build a solar oven

Explore the power of the sun when you build your own solar ovens and use them to cook some yummy treats. This experiment takes a little more time and effort, but the results are always impressive. The link below has complete instructions.

Learn more: Solar Oven

66. Build a Da Vinci bridge

There are plenty of bridge-building experiments out there, but this one is unique. It’s inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s 500-year-old self-supporting wooden bridge. Learn how to build it at the link, and expand your learning by exploring more about Da Vinci himself.

Learn more: Da Vinci Bridge

67. Step through an index card

This is one easy science experiment that never fails to astonish. With carefully placed scissor cuts on an index card, you can make a loop large enough to fit a (small) human body through! Kids will be wowed as they learn about surface area.

68. Stand on a pile of paper cups

Combine physics and engineering and challenge kids to create a paper cup structure that can support their weight. This is a cool project for aspiring architects.

Learn more: Paper Cup Stack

69. Test out parachutes

Gather a variety of materials (try tissues, handkerchiefs, plastic bags, etc.) and see which ones make the best parachutes. You can also find out how they’re affected by windy days or find out which ones work in the rain.

Learn more: Parachute Drop

70. Recycle newspapers into an engineering challenge

It’s amazing how a stack of newspapers can spark such creative engineering. Challenge kids to build a tower, support a book, or even build a chair using only newspaper and tape!

Learn more: Newspaper STEM Challenge

71. Use rubber bands to sound out acoustics

Explore the ways that sound waves are affected by what’s around them using a simple rubber band “guitar.” (Kids absolutely love playing with these!)

Learn more: Rubber Band Guitar

72. Assemble a better umbrella

Challenge students to engineer the best possible umbrella from various household supplies. Encourage them to plan, draw blueprints, and test their creations using the scientific method.

Learn more: Umbrella STEM Challenge

Plus, sign up for our newsletters to get all the latest learning ideas straight to your inbox.

You Might Also Like

16 Red-Hot Volcano Science Experiments and Kits For Classrooms or Science Fairs

Kids will erupt with excitement! Continue Reading

Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved. 5335 Gate Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32256

Biology for Kids – Experiments, Worksheets, & Activities

Biology for kids.

Explore  biology for Kids with this engaging  biology science experiments  and worsheets. These human body experiments are perfect for learning about muscles, bones, heart, brain, lungs, plants, and more. We have lots of plant activities for preschool, pre-k, kindergarten, first grade, 2nd grade, 3rd grade, 4th grade, 5th grade, 6th grade, 7th grade, 8th grade, 9th grade, 10th grade, 11th grade, and 12th graders.

Biology science experiments

Our family loves using Apologia science with Explore Creation with Biology and All about plants for kids , but these biology science experiment  ideas will work with whatever biology or botany science curriculum you are using. Simply click on the button below to see HUMAN BODY or PLANT science worsheets and  experiments to round out your lesson. These biology science for kid ideas are perfect for preschoolers, kindergartners, grade 1, grade 2, grade 3, grade 4, grade 5, grade 6, grade 7, grade 8, grade 9, grade 10, grade 11, and grade 12 students.

And if you are looking for other popular science expeirments and activities on our site take a peak at these options below:

Fun Science Experiments

Of if you aren’t sure where to start, jump right into some of our most popular science ideas for kids:

• 30 Simple Machines for Kids Experiments
• Launch this experiment and record your findings with this Coke and mentos experiment worksheet
• Lots of FUN Solar System Project Ideas for kids
• Printable Solar System Worksheets (free) or planet worksheets for kindergarten
• Grab these free printable solar system coloring pages
• Life-size Human Body Project with free printable body parts
• Colorful Capillary action science experiment (also known as walking water)
• 100 Amazing Food science experiments  – arranged by type of science
• Free Printable Human Body for Kids Playdough Mats
• Leak proof bag fun science experiments
• Older students can dive deeper with these free skeletal system worksheet pages
• Amazing Why do leaves change color experiment
• Learn about seasons with this cool free 4 seasons printables
• Animals and their Babies matching puzzles
• Take a closer look at animals with this free printable animal report for for kids

Science Exeriments for Kids

Looking for lots more fun, science experiments for kids? You’ve GOT to try some of these outrageously fun science experiments for kids! We have so many fun, creative and easy science experiments for elementary age children:

• How to Make a Lava Lamp – super easy and SO cool!
• Weather Unit for prek-3rd graders filled with experiments, activities and weather worksheets
• Make it rain and write your observations in these cloud in a jar experiment worksheet
• Learn about our moon with these activities and moon worksheets for 1st grade
• Free Water Cycle Worksheets for kids
• Discover a world of geology with these rock worksheets for kids
• Free printable states of matter activity with clip cards
• Discover what lies below the surface with these free Layers of Earth Worksheets
• Make playdough earth layers with this super cool geology experiment for kids
• LOTS of year-round Science Experiments for Kids
• Kids will love this outrageously fun pipe clean constellations activity
• This look inside a volcano experiment for kids takes learning to a whole new level
• Chromatography Butterflies project for kids
• Learn about the kingdom Animalia with over 20 Zoo Scavenger Hunt free printables
• Harness the power of fruit with this simple Lemon Clock for kids
• Easy Bernoulli’s principle experiment at home
• Amaze kids with this simple burning candle experiment with free worksheets

Easy Science Experiments

• Gross and so cool Digestive System Project for kids of all ages
• Amazing Rainbow in a Jar Experiment for Kids
• Epic Baking Soda and Vinegar Rocket Experiment
• Cool Milk and Vinegar Expeirment making plastic!
• Learn about your amazing brain with this activity and brain worksheets
• How do hands work project for kids
• Super cool and easy-to-make, working lego balloon car
• Plants for kids lesson
• Explore magnets with these EPIC magnet experiments for kids
• Popsicle Stick Catapult for kids – simple STEM project
• Simple light bulb experiment (it actually lights up!)
• Easy-to-make balloon hoovercraft
• Bouncy Eggs and eggs in vinegar experiment worksheet
• Learn about density for kids with these simple balloon solid, liquid, gas hands-on activities
• Create your own super simple bot
• Beautiful, color changing capillary action experiment with flowers
• WOW your kids with how to make a Newton’s cradle project
• Heat-sensitive, Color Changing Slime is SO COOL!

Click on the beaker above to explore our science projects based biology experiments for kids , physical science experiments for kids , earth science experiments for kids , astronomy experiments for kids , chemistry experiments for kids , and physics experiments for kids

Or see all science for kids , types of free science lessons , or seasonal science experiments .

FREE Shipping on all our products! (Please Note: Orders may experience a delay of a week or more in shipping due to the high volume of orders at this time of year.)

• See Where To Start
• Read Our Story
• Learn About Our Philosophy
• Samples of Our Programs
• Intro To Science
• Summer's Lab
• Learning Through Science
• Grammar Stage from the Classical Science Series
• Sassafras Science
• Science Chunks Units
• Logic Stage from the Classical Science Series
• Physical Science
• Science Chunks
• High School Biology
• High School Chemistry
• Physics Rhetoric
• Holiday Science
• The Science Fair Project
• The Homeschooler's Guide to Experiments
• Classical Science Series
• Sassafras Science Series
• Biology Grammar Stage
• Biology Logic Stage
• Sassafras Zoology
• Sassafras Anatomy
• Sassafras Botany
• Biology Units
• Earth Science & Astronomy for the Grammar Stage
• Earth Science & Astronomy Logic Stage
• Sassafras Earth Science
• Sassafras Geology
• Sassafras Astronomy
• Earth Science & Astronomy Units
• Chemistry Grammar Stage
• Chemistry Logic Stage
• Sassafras Chemistry
• Chemistry Units
• Physics Grammar Stage
• Physics Logic Stage
• Physics Units
• Physics High School
• [email protected]

Your Cart is Empty

• $ 0.00 Subtotal

Taxes and shipping calculated at checkout

All books are shipped via media mail and can take up to three weeks to arrive. All experiment kits are shipped priority mail and may arrive before the books. All eBooks are delivered to your inbox within 5 minutes of your purchase.

Top 10 Biology Experiments You Don't Want to Miss

January 14, 2019 4 min read biology experiments science activities

A few years back we shared a series about how to teach the different areas of science at home, which you can find here:

• Teaching Biology at Home
• Teaching Earth Science at Home
• Teaching Astronomy at Home
• Teaching Chemistry at Home
• Teaching Physics at Home

The posts in the series have remained some of our most popular posts and so we thought we would help you all out by sharing our favorite experiments for each discipline!

We are going to start this series out with biology - here's how you can teach biology at home .

And without further ado, here are our top 10 biology experiments!

Top 10 Biology Experiments

1. Dissect a Flower  

Many of the typical spring blooms, such as lilies, tulips, and daffodils, have clearly seen elements, which makes them excellent specimens for your students to study the structure of a flower.

One of the best ways to do this is through a flower dissection! These step-by-step directions for a flower dissection will help you examine the structure of a flower.

2. Raise a Butterfly

Butterflies go through an amazing life-cycle. A butterfly lays an egg, from which a caterpillar emerges. Then, the caterpillar eats and grows, eventually forming a chrysalis. And several weeks later a butterfly emerges!

There is nothing like watching this process in action! And these instructions on how to grow a butterfly will help you observe this life cycle in action.

3. Extract DNA 

DNA is the stuff that tells our cells what to do and how to look. It resides in the nucleus of a cell, so as you can imagine it is quite tiny. In fact, you normally need a very powerful microscope to see DNA for yourself.

That is unless you extract it and force it to join up together into one giant mass of DNA. And that is exactly what you do with this Banana DNA Extraction experiment .

4. Make a Seed Board 

Plants start their lives out as seeds and there is a huge variety of seeds, just like there is a huge variety of plants.  

These four steps for making a seed board will help your students appreciate the differences and similarities between seeds.

5. Dissect an Owl Pellet 

This one often grosses people out, but dissecting an owl pellet is a great way to learn about bones and animal diet.

Don't worry, owl pellets are not from the backside of an owl. Owls swallow their prey whole, so a few hours after the meal, they will regurgitate the indigestible parts in the form of a pellet.

These four steps for dissecting an owl pellet will help you get the most of this fascinating but slightly suspect dissection.

6. Look at Fingerprints

Our body is covered with an amazing organ know as skin. It's the largest organ of the integumentary system. The  skin on our fingers, toes, palms of your hands, and soles of your feet is folded into tiny ridges. These ridges form swirling patterns, that help our hands and feet grip things.

These directions for examining your fingerprints will help your students understand just how amazing our skin is!

7. Grow an Herb Cutting

Roots are the structure of a plant that anchors into the ground and helps the provide the plant with the nutrients it needs to grow.

These directions for growing an herb cutting will help your students see how roots grow and get a chance to examine roots up close without getting dirty! 

8. Make a Habitat Diorama 

Our planet is covered with different types of habitats. Habitats are the place that is normal for the life and growth of a certain animal or a plant. In other words, it's the area where an animal or plant resides.

These directions for how to make a habitat diorama will help your students learn about the different plants and animals in an area in a hands-on way.

9. Eat a Cell Model

The cell is the basic unit of life, but it's so small that we can't see the cell's structure with our naked eyes. Enter the cell model.

You can make a jello cell, a cake cell, or a cell calzone to eat, but whatever cell you choose to snack on, these edible models will help your students visualize this basic building block of life.

10. Create a Fall Leaf  (or Signs of Spring)  Journal

When you study biology, it's a good idea to learn about the nature surrounding you. A  Fall Leaf journal  or a Signs of Spring journal will help your students learn about the trees and bushes that are in your area.

Wrapping it Up

There are loads more options for biology experiments out there that we love - in fact, we probably could have done a post with 100 experiments! But these are the ten we don't want you to miss.  If you want more biology experiments, check out our Biology Pinterest board .

If you want it all pulled together for you, check out the following our homeschool science programs with easy-to-use plans for teaching biology:

• For Preschool – Intro to Science  and  Summer's Lab
• For Elementary Students –  Biology for the Grammar Stage ,   Biology Lapbooks , The Sassafras Science Adventures ( Zoology ,   Anatomy , and   Botany )
• For Middle School Students –   Biology for the Logic Stage
• High School Students –   Biology for High School

Also in Elemental Science Blog

What are lapbooks and how can they be used for homeschool science.

August 24, 2024 2 min read

What are lapbooks? How can you use a lapbook in your homeschool? Get the answer to these questions are more by reading the article!

The 3 things every homeschool science plan needs (don't forget no. 3)

August 17, 2024 2 min read

What should your plan for homeschool science include? Click "Read More" to see the three things every successful homeschool science plan needs.

5 Ways to Get Ready for Homeschool Science for this Next Year

August 03, 2024 5 min read

Sign up to get the latest on sales, new releases and more …

10 Super Simple Science Experiments for Elementary Students

by Sara Ipatenco

Science is one of the core subjects necessary in every elementary school classroom. Experiments are a critical part of any science curriculum, because they allow your students to get up close and personal with learning concepts. Science experiments don’t have to be expensive, hard, or time-consuming. With a few inexpensive materials, a science lab, and a class period or two, you can bring science alive for your students. Here are 10 experiments to get your students started.

Just so you know, we may get a small share of the sales made through affiliate links on this page.

1. Dancing popcorn

Materials needed:.

• 1-quart jar
• 1 tablespoon popcorn kernels
• 2-4 tablespoons baking soda
• 1 cup white vinegar

Directions:

• Fill the 1-quart jar about three-quarters with water.

2. Add the baking soda to the water and stir until it’s dissolved.

3. Gently pour the popcorn kernels into the jar.

4. Slowly pour in the vinegar. Go slowly or you’ll get a volcano overflowing over the top of the jar.

5. Watch the popcorn kernels dance! The reaction between the baking soda and vinegar causes bubbles to form in the liquid. As the bubbles move, they knock into the popcorn kernels, causing them to look like they are dancing.

2. Lemon volcano

• Food coloring
• Baking soda
• Cut the lemon in half. Slice a tiny sliver off the bottom of one lemon half so it sits flat on a plate. Cut a few slits in the flesh of the lemon.

2. Place a few drops of food coloring on the lemon half sitting flat on the plate. Use two or three colors for a more colorful reaction.

3. Squeeze a bit of dish soap on the lemon half right on top of the food coloring.

4. Sprinkle a spoonful of baking soda on top of the dish soap. Use the back of the spoon to press the baking soda into the flesh of the lemon.

5. Squeeze the other half of the lemon on top of the baking soda. You should start to see a colorful reaction right away!

6. Keep squeezing until you’ve gotten all the juice out of the second lemon half. As the lemon juice reacts to the baking soda it will fizz. The dish soap will also bubble, mixing with the food coloring to make the experiment colorful and easy to see. It works because of the reaction of the acidic lemon juice with the baking soda and dish soap.

3. Turning pennies green

• Paper towels
• White vinegar
• Pennies dated 1981 or older – younger pennies don’t have enough copper to get the proper reaction necessary to make this experiment work
• Place a folded paper towel into the bottom of a bowl.

2. Place the pennies on top of the paper towel. Put some of the pennies heads up and some of the pennies tails up so your students can see the green in a couple different ways.

3. Pour enough white vinegar over the pennies to saturate the paper towel. Save the rest of the vinegar to refresh the paper towel as it dries.

4. Observe the pennies after an hour or two. The green will just be starting to appear on the pennies.

5. Leave the pennies overnight. Observe them again the next day. There will plenty of green appearing on the pennies. The green, which is called malachite, continues to appear because of the chemical reaction between the copper, the vinegar, and the oxygen in the air. This is why the Statue of Liberty is green!

4. Glitter Germs

• White plate
• Fill the plate with water. Sprinkle glitter over the surface of the water. The more glitter you sprinkle, the more dramatic the reaction will be.

2. Have your students dip one finger in dish soap.

3. Students will gently dip their soap-covered finger into the center of the plate.

4. Observe what the glitter does! It will immediately scatter away from the soap. This happens because the soap lowers the surface tension of the water, which causes the molecules to scatter – the glitter just makes it so your students can see that happen. This is a great science experiment to teach the importance of washing hands – the soap will literally make the germs scatter!

5. Exploding baggies

• Plastic zip-top bag
• One square of toilet paper
• Pour half a cup of vinegar into a plastic zip-top bag.

2. Place a spoonful of baking soda into a square of toilet paper.

3. Fold the toilet paper square up to make a small packet.

4. Head outside because the next part will get messy! Once outside, quickly place the toilet paper packet in the bag, squeeze the air out, zip the bag closed, and set on the sidewalk. It’s important to do this part quickly!

5. Back up and watch. The bag will start to puff up.

6. Keep watching!

7. Watch some more. It’s almost there!

8. Bang! The bag will explode! This experiment works because the vinegar and baking soda create carbon dioxide gas in the bag. As more carbon dioxide is made, it builds up in the bag until the bag can’t hold any more. That’s when the bag pops.

6. Walking water

• 6 small glass jars
• Red, yellow, and blue food coloring
• Place the 6 glass jars in a circle so the jars are touching each other. Fill every other jar about three-quarters full of water.

2. Place a few drops of red food coloring in one jar, skip the empty jar, add yellow food coloring to the next jar, skip the empty jar, and then add blue food coloring to the next jar.

3. Fold six paper towels into fourths the long way.

4. Place the end of one paper towel in the red jar and the other end in the empty jar. Then place the end of another paper towel into the same empty jar and the other end in the yellow jar. Take the third paper towel and place one end in the yellow jar and the other end in the next empty jar. The fourth paper towel will have one end in the empty jar and the other end in the blue jar. The fifth will have one end in the blue jar and the other end in the following empty jar. The last paper towel will have one end in the empty jar and one end in the red jar.

5. Watch the paper towels begin to absorb the colored water.

6. After a few minutes, the paper towels will be saturated with the primary colors.

7. Keep watching and the colors will begin to transfer from the jars you filled to the empty jars. The experiment works because the primary colors will mix in the empty jars making the secondary colors. The paper towels will then begin to absorb the secondary colors, making it look like the water is walking from jar to jar.

• 4 cups white vinegar
• 4 tablespoons baking soda
• Large cooking pot
• Glass measuring cup
• Pour 4 cups of white vinegar into your cooking pot.

2. Add baking soda, one tablespoon at a time, to the white vinegar.

3. Stir the mixture well after each tablespoon. This will prevent the pot from overflowing.

4. Boil the white vinegar and baking soda mixture on medium-low heat for about an hour. You want to boil it long enough that that much of the liquid is boiled out. You want about three-quarters of a cup of liquid.

5. Scrape a small amount of the dried powder from the side of the pot and place it in the middle of a colored plate. A colored plate isn’t required, but it will make it easier to see the hot ice grow.

6. Pour the liquid into a glass measuring cup. It will be quite hot, so this is a job for the teacher! The liquid might also have a yellow tinge to it. This is normal and will not change the outcome of the project. Begin slowly pouring the liquid onto the powder on the plate. Patience is the key from here on out. Your students will need to pour the liquid very slowly or it will just spread all over the plate rather than growing.

7. Keep pouring, a drop or so at a time, and watch the ice begin to grow.

8. Keep pouring until you’ve used up all the liquid. The “ice” will continue to be hot to the touch, so make sure your students aren’t touching the ice as it grows. It works because the powder “seed,” called sodium acetate, crystalizes and releases heat energy, which is why it will be hot to the touch. It’s the same process used to make hand warmers.

8. Floating ink

    materials needed:.

•     White glass plate
•     Dry erase markers

    Directions:

• Draw simple pictures on a white glass plate using the dry erase markers.

2. Use another color to draw a few more images on the plate.

3. Place a small amount of water into a glass jar. Carefully pour the water onto the edge of the plate.

4. Watch the dry erase images begin to lift off the plate and float on top of the water. It works because the ink in dry erase markers is insoluble, which means it won’t dissolve in liquid. Instead, when the ink in a dry erase marker meets water, it floats to the top. Have your students experiment with different colors of dry erase markers and different temperatures of water to see if that changes the how quickly and easily the images float.

9. Snowstorm in a jar

• A glass jar
• White paint
• Blue food coloring
• Alka-seltzer tablet
• Fill a jar about three-quarters full of baby oil.

2. In the small bowl, mix white craft paint with water until the paint is completely stirred into the water.

3. Add several squirts of blue food coloring and a generous amount of glitter to the baby oil. Slowly pour in the white paint and water mixture.

5. Carefully drop an Alka-seltzer tab in the jar.

6. The snowstorm will immediately start in the jar! Your students will begin to see the glitter, blue oil, and white paint start to swirl slowly in the jar.

7. Keep watching because the snowstorm will get crazier! It works because water is denser than oil so the white paint water will sink to the bottom of the jar. The Alka-seltzer causes a chemical reaction with the water, forcing the water up toward the top of the jar. At the same time, the oil will be blocking the water, forcing it back down toward the bottom of the jar. These opposite forces of pressure make it look like there’s a blizzard!

10. Crushing cans

• Empty aluminum can
• Small cooking pot
• Fill the empty aluminum can with just enough water to cover the bottom and place it in a small cooking pot and over medium heat.

2. While you are waiting for the water in the can to boil, fill a bowl with plenty of ice and water.

3. Keep an eye on the can. Peek in the top to see if the water has started to boil.

4. Once the water is boiling, the teacher will use the tongs to remove the can from the pot.

5. Immediately turn the can upside down into the bowl of ice water. The can will crush instantly. It works because the steam from the boiling water in the can pushes all the air out the opening at the top. When the can is placed in the ice water, the steam cools and water takes it place. Since water takes up less space than steam, the blocked opening of the can makes it impossible for air to fill up the space the steam previously took up. The result is instant crushing.

With a few simple ingredients and class period or two, your students will learn a ton about scientific concepts while also observing just how much fun science can be.

Teach Starter, part of Tes Teach Starter, part of Tes

Search  everything  in all resources

Simple But Fun Elementary Science Experiments to Try in Your Classroom

Written by Holly (Teach Starter)

Looking for some fun elementary science experiments you can do in the classroom that will wow your students? Getting hands-on with science and creating projects that are doable in a classroom setting but also have an element of “cool” are the Teach Starter team’s favorite way to get our students hooked on science.

So we put together some of our very favorite simple science experiments for kids to try out in your classroom! From making an eggshell disappear for a chemistry lesson to showing off the capillary action of flowers for biology, these science experiment ideas will be a sure hit in your classroom!

Simple Elementary Science Experiments

We have developed a series of simple elementary science experiments that are perfect for the busy teacher! Bonus: All of these fun experiments are simple to do and use everyday items.

Science Experiment: Make an Eggshell Disappear

This fun classroom science experiment falls under seriously simple — all you need is some white vinegar, a raw egg, and a glass jar for a chemistry lesson! Your students will learn all about the chemical reaction that occurs when you put an egg into vinegar and leave it overnight. This chemical reaction makes the egg shell disappear but will leave the rubbery membrane, keeping the egg intact.

For a simple description of the chemistry involved, the equipment required, the method and further questioning for your students, download our  Make an Eggshell Disappear – Science Experiment Booklet.

Science Experiment: Make a Rainbow with Water

Everyone loves a rainbow! Students learn all about density in this physics science experiment. They will use different measurements of sugar to create a variety of densities of colored water. Eventually, they will be able to layer water on top of the water, creating a rainbow tower. Sounds like fun, hey?

Again this experiment only requires water, food coloring, sugar, and some different glass jars! To read all about it, download our  Rainbow Water Density Tower – Science Experiment Booklet .

Science Experiment: Capillary Action of Water in Flowers (Biology)

This is always a class favorite! Students learn about how water gets from the bottom of a flower stem all the way to the petals by putting them into colored water!

Download our  Capillary Action of Water in Flowers – Science Experiment Booklet . In our ‘Take it Further’ section of the science booklet, get students to research early botanists.

Science Experiment: Rainbow Bubble Snake

Create a fun, colorful serpent with some simple ingredients for a science experiment that will leave kids giggling!

All you need is:

• Empty plastic bottle
• Dishwashing liquid
• Rubber band
• Food coloring
• A dish of water

• Make the bubble solution by adding water into a shallow dish and adding a few squirts of dishwashing liquid.
• Make the snake by carefully cutting the bottom of the bottle (adults will need to help). Then, place the sock over the end of the bottle and place a rubber band over it to secure it in place
• Wet the sock end with some of the bubble solution, then add a few drops of food coloring on to the end – the more colors, the more colorful!
• Finally, dip the sock end in the bubble solution one more time, and blow through the other end of the bottle. Your rainbow serpent will start to grow…

The hydrogen atoms in one water molecule are attracted to the oxygen atoms in the other water molecules, making the bubbles attach to each other when they come out of the sock fabric. The bubbles are forming because of the air being blown into the soap solution. The air is getting trapped under the surface of the flexible soap skin, stretching it into a sphere shape.

Make it a fair tes t by changing one variable, such as the material or perhaps a different-sized bottle.

Science Experiment: Create a Lava Lamp Science Activity

This simple science experiment for elementary students is an oldie but a goodie!

• Two glasses
• Vegetable oil
• Alka-Seltzer tablets

• First, mix half a cup of water with some drops of food coloring. You can make two different batches with different colors if you wish to make more than one lava lamp.
• Then, fill a glass 3/4 full with vegetable oil. Pour some of the colored mixture into the oil, being careful not to fill the glass too much.
• Add one Alka-seltzer tablet and watch the chemical reaction…

The Alka-seltzer tablets react with the water to produce carbon dioxide gas bubbles! These stick to the water droplets. The water and gas combo is less dense than the oil, so they rise to the top of the glass!

Make this a fair test by changing the amount of Alka-seltzer added. One glass you can add one tablet, another can have two tablets and another can have three. What happens?

Science Experiment: Refraction of Light Science Activity

File this science experiment for kids under SUPER simple. And seriously, we mean super!

• Glass of water

Draw something on a piece of paper. An arrow is a great visual to start this science activity, as it is obvious what happens when you put the glass of water in front of the drawn arrow. But, you don’t have to limit it to arrows. Get creative and draw anything you would like to see through the glass.

When the light is passing through the glass of water, it refracts or bends. The glass of water acts as a cylindrical convex lens and produces an inverted image.

Create a fair test by changing one variable. What happens if you change the size of the glass. Or what if you change the liquid variable? Does it change the result?

Check out our collection of science resources for more science experiments and science teaching resources.

30 Buzzing Facts About Bees to Excite Kids About Nature

Everyone benefits from the busyness of bees which is why these bee facts will help inspire your students to appreciate and protect them!

21 Epic Last Day of School Activities to Kick Off Summer Break

Looking for easy last day of school ideas for elementary or middle school? These quick and fun end of year classroom activities will help you finish off your year just right!

70 1st Grade Books to Add to Your Classroom Reading Corner This Year

Wondering which 1st grade books you should add to your classroom library? Look no further! We have a list of 70 that are teacher (and student) approved!

22 Fun Groundhog Facts to Share With Your Class on Groundhog Day

Need fun groundhog facts to share with your students this Groundhog Day? Find out what groundhogs eat, where they live and why we let them predict the weather!

How to Teach 1st Grade — The Ultimate Guide to What to Do, What to Buy and What to Teach

Looking for tips on teaching first grade? Our comprehensive 1st grade teacher guide will answer all your questions from what to buy to how to prepare for the first day of school and what to do throughout the school year.

10 Best Pencil Sharpeners for the Classroom — Recommended by Teachers

Need new pencil sharpeners in your classroom? We've rounded up 10 best pencil sharpeners recommended by teachers to get you started.

Get more inspiration delivered to your inbox!

Sign up for a free membership and receive tips, news and resources directly to your email!

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Teaching Expertise

• Classroom Ideas
• Teacher’s Life
• Deals & Shopping
• Privacy Policy

45 Science Activities For Elementary Students: Challenges And Experiments For Every Season

November 5, 2023 //  by  Christina Cunningham

Each season brings along new themes to explore in our elementary classrooms. In schools around the country, fall brings on studies of pumpkins and leaves, and winter sparks interest in snow and ice. Spring weather invites explorations of puddles and mud, and summer’s heat naturally causes students to ask, “How can we cool off?” Our elementary science experiments can help students explore their natural curiosities. Check out this list of science activities for ideas that span the entire school year!

1. Growing Pumpkin Seeds in a Pumpkin

This experiment begins with the sensory-rich experience of cutting and scooping out goopy pumpkin “guts.” Take this classic experiment a step further by replanting the seeds right inside the pumpkin! Students can track their growth in journals to practice the basic science skills of recording and representing data.

Learn More: Pre-K Pages

2. Pumpkin Decomposition

Opposite to the last experiment, this activity teaches about the end of a pumpkin’s life cycle: decomposition. Make sure you keep the lid on this one-it could get smelly! Pair this experiment with a book like Pumpkin Jack to integrate literacy as well!

Learn More: Kelly’s Classroom Online

3. Frozen Fizzy Spiders

Your students will explore basic chemical reactions with this frozen baking soda and vinegar activity. Hatchling spiders will emerge from their egg sacks in this fizzy science experiment! It is perfect for a theme about creepy critters around Halloween. The best part is that it only takes these few basic household supplies!

4. Dissecting Owl Pellets

A dissection experiment that you can do outside of a science lab! Owl pellets can be purchased on Amazon, and older learners can focus on fine motor skills as they search for clues to an owl’s diet hidden inside their pellets! This activity works great during a nocturnal animal theme.

Learn More: Gift of Curiosity

5. Leaf Chromatography for Kids

As leaves first begin their autumnal changes and fall to the ground, children are captivated by their colors! This chromatography (or color separation) experiment helps students isolate the specific hues in the leaves they gather. You just need a few basic supplies: paper towels, rubbing alcohol, and some kitchen items.

Learn More: A Little Pinch of Perfect

6. Escaping Animals

This fun sensory experiment doubles as an exploration of the states of matter! Your students can test their hypotheses of what will cause ice to melt, all while saving polar animals from their icy trap! Try this one several times with different add-ins, like salt, watercolor paints, and “ice picks.”

Learn More: Views from a Stepstool

7. Colorful Ice Melt

You’ll have to gather some food coloring for the kitchen for this colorful experiment! Take the traditional salt-and-ice experiment a step further by adding in art concepts! The bright colors will highlight the exact ways that the ice is melting-leaving rivulets, holes, etc. in its wake.

Learn More: Artful Parent

8. “Ice” Crystal Names

Merge science and literacy with this crystal experiment! Challenge your class’s ability to follow directions as they make the borax solution from simple ingredients. Then, your students will be mesmerized as they watch crystals grow around their pipe cleaner letters! Display your results as part of your winter classroom decorations!

Learn More: Playdough to Plato

9. Snowball Catapults

Early physical science and engineering skills emerge from this STEM activity ! Challenge kids to use their problem-solving skills to develop a popsicle stick and rubber band catapult, then test them out with a friendly snowball fight!

Learn More: Mombrite

10. Melting Snowman Experiment

During your ice and snow-themed weeks, encourage children to make predictions and represent data as they watch a snowman melt! This is a perfect opportunity to complete some science journaling as you track changes over time and have students draw what they see at certain intervals.

Learn More: Mom to 2 Posh Lil Divas

11. Growing Grass Heads

12. disappearing egg shell.

As you begin a study of oviparous (egg-laying) animals in the springtime, students can learn all about the protective shells that keep baby animals safe! As students watch an eggshell dissolve over the course of several days, you can encourage them to make observations, develop theories, and ask further questions.

Learn More: Premeditated Leftovers

13. Dissect a Flower

All teachers of little ones know that children love the process of deconstructing objects! They will have ample opportunity to do so in this “flower dissection,” where they will get to closely observe the parts of a plant. This activity prompts students to sort and classify.

Learn More: Science Sparks

14. Pollination

During a spring insect study, students can participate in this experiment to learn more about the ways that pollinators’ physical traits help plants grow! This is another experiment that encourages students to use the steps of the scientific method as they use loose parts to create the most effective pollinator.

Learn More: The First Grade Round Up

15. Wind Strength

During studies on the weather, students often participate in experiments that help them “see” the wind. Allow students to take this one step further by testing the force of the “wind” required to move differently weighing objects. A perfect experiment for developing and testing hypotheses, as well as using comparative language!

Learn More: Preschool Toolkit

16. Moon Craters

As summertime’s meteor showers begin, many schools take the opportunity to study outer space! Curiosity about our nearest planetary body, the moon, leads to inquiries about its appearance. Teach students about how the moon got its craters with simple materials: a cake pan, flour, and marbles!

17. What Melts in the Sun?

This is a simple science experiment for those long summer days spent outside! It’s also easy to set up with anything you might have on hand. Let students test their theories, experiment with the lengths of time they leave objects in the sun, and follow up with a delicious popsicle treat!

Learn More: Frugal Fun for Boys

18. Sunscreen Paintings

Teach students the importance of SPF by painting dark paper with sunscreen! After leaving their paintings sitting out in the sun, students will notice the difference between the paper protected by lotion and the parts left untouched. Try it again on a cloudy day and compare the two paintings!

Learn More: Kaplan Company

19. Solar Oven S’mores

Work together to harness solar power in a DIY solar oven made from recycled materials! Bring in math skills by encouraging students to measure the temperature inside the oven and experiment with cook times to make the perfect s’more! Celebrate students’ hard work by enjoying these sweet treats afterward!

Learn More: NASA-Climate Kids

20. Oil and Water

Explore the concept of density during water play by adding oil and food coloring! Challenge students to record what they observe, experiment with the basics of color mixing, or find a way to mix the two substances. This experiment is a perfect outdoor activity for preschoolers!

Learn More: STEAM-Powered Family

21. Air Compression Cloud

This is a very simple experiment that only requires one disposable plastic water bottle. Make sure it’s clean, empty, and dry. Close the cap and twist the bottle very tightly- forcing the air molecules together. As the cap is opened there will be a pressure release. The expansion of the compressed molecules will create a cloud.

Learn More:  Raising Da Vinci

22. Balloon Magic

Take a clean and dry bottle. Add some baking soda and vinegar to it. Immediately cover the mouth with a balloon. When the two liquids react, a harmless gas will be formed. This gas will not be able to escape the bottle because of the balloon and will inflate it instead.

Learn More:  Simple Play Ideas

23. Bending Water

Blow a balloon. Now add some static charge to it by rubbing it over your hair or your shirt. Place the charged balloon close to the running water. The stream of water will bend because of the electric charge, leading to a fun activity.

Learn More:  STEM Newcastle

24. Bouncing Ball Experiment

Take equal parts of warm water and borax and mix well. In another cup, take equal parts of glue and cornstarch and add a little food color to it. Combine both mixtures and knead them into a ball. Now watch the mixture bounce before your eyes!

Learn More:  The STEM Laboratory

25. Bouncy Egg

Take an egg and cover it in vinegar. Let it sit for 24 hours. After 24 hours have passed, remove the egg and rub off the shell. That’s it! Now you have a bouncy egg. You can add cool effects by shining a light under it to make it appear even more mesmerizing.

Learn More:  Cool Science Experiments

26. Color-Changing Flowers

Take 2-3 cups of water and add a different color dye into each. Place one white carnation flower with the stem in each cup. Observe the change in color as the plants “drink” the water. Explain that this is how they absorb vital nutrients and food from the soil.

Learn More:  Mott Children

27. Dancing Raisins

Pour any clear carbonated beverage into a glass and add raisins to it. The escaping gas will make the raisins move up and down in the liquid, making them “dance.” Kids will learn about gas evaporation in this fun science activity.

Learn More:  Buggy And Buddy

28. Elephant Toothpaste

Take ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide in a bottle and add 10 drops of food color to it. Now add 1 tablespoon of dish soap and mix the solution thoroughly. Set aside. Combine water and yeast in another glass and let it sit for 30 seconds. Now transfer the solution from the glass into the bottle and watch it explode.

29. Exploding Pumpkin

This is one of the easiest STEM activities you can do with your kids. Carve the inside of a small pumpkin and draw a horror face on the outside with a permanent marker. Take ¼ cup vinegar and add two drops of coloring agent to it. Mix and pour the liquid inside the pumpkin. Add 1 tablespoon of baking soda, stand back, and watch colored foam spray out of the pumpkin head.

Learn More: Our Family Code

30. Fire Snake

Looking for a STEM activity that your kids will remember for a long time? Try the fire snake! Mix baking soda and sugar in 1:4 proportion. In another container, take some sand and add some type of fuel to it. Place the baking soda and sugar mixture on it and light the fuel. Now have fun observing the black snake this concoction makes.

Learn More: Wonder How To

31. Green Money

Place a kitchen towel on a plate and place pennies on top of it. Pour vinegar over the coins and observe the color change for the next few hours and days. The coins will turn green as they are made of copper. On exposure to oxygen, this copper will turn into copper oxide.

Learn More:  WLTX

32. Invisible Ink

Mix equal parts of baking soda and water. Use this solution as ink and write on paper. Paint the paper with grape juice to reveal the message. It is one of the more fun activities for kids where they learn and play at the same time. Leave them a secret message using this technique.

Learn More:  Children’s Museum

33. Surface Tension Challenge

Take a coin and place it on any flat surface, like a table. Now gradually add drops of water to it using a syringe or dropper. You will soon notice a dome of water forming on top of the coin. This happens because of the surface tension of the water molecules.

Learn More:  Scientific American

34. Jelly Bean

This Jelly Bean science experiment is one of those STEM activities that most kids love. Just arrange the jelly beans in a circle on a plate. Now add warm water slowly so that you do not disturb the arrangement of the beans. As the water comes into contact with the beans it will dissolve the dyed sugar coat on the jelly beans- forming a beautiful rainbow.

Learn More:  Super Teacher Worksheets

35. Lava Lamp

Take a glass of water and add any dye to it. Now take a jar and add a cup of oil to it. Pour the colored water into the jar and add a fizzing tablet. The tablet will create carbon dioxide and form supercool bubbles which will move up and down in the jar.

Learn More: TheDadLab

36. Melting Ice And Salt

Take a glass of water and add ice cubes to it. Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of salt and lay a string over the ice cubes. The salt will melt the water on the ice and as the water refreezes, the string will get trapped in the ice. So, when you pull out the string, the ice cubes will appear like a necklace on it.

Learn More:  Little Passports

37. Magic Milk

Pour some milk into a flat dish. Add a few drops of different dyes or colors to it. Now take a cotton swab covered in soap and dip it in the middle of the colors. The reaction between the fat and protein in the mixture will make the colors “dance”.

Learn More: Steve Spangler Science

38. Rainbow Paper

Add a drop of clear nail polish to a bowl of water and dip black construction paper into it. Let it dry. Now take it out and tilt it at an angle under light to observe the rainbow patterns.

Learn More: Curiodyssey

39. Spiral Paper

Take a sheet of paper and cut it into a spiral. Attach the paper to a string and hang it. Place a lamp below the spiral and watch the spiral go round and round. This happens because the air around the lamp gets heated. As hot air is less dense than cold air, it moves upwards, pushing the spiral and making it dance.

Learn More: Fizzics Education

40. Tea Bag Ghost

You can make ghosts out of a tea bag. This cool experiment involves drawing a cute ghost on your tea bag, balancing it upright, and lighting the top; that’s it. Now watch the “ghost” fly away!

Learn More:  Netflix Jr.

41. Magic Jumping Coin

Lower the temperature of a coin and glass bottle by placing them in cold water. Place the coin on top of the bottle and wrap your hands around it. The heat in your hand will warm up the glass bottle. It will then warm up the air molecules inside the bottle. This will cause the coin to jump up.

Learn More: What Do We Do All Day

42. Unpoppable Balloon

One of the most fascinating and simple science activities is the unpoppable balloon experiment. All you need is an inflated balloon, a skewer, and dish soap. Dip the skewer into the dish soap and pierce the balloon carefully with it. The skewer will not pop the balloon.

Learn More: Sick Science!

43. Walking Water

Take 7 empty jars and add different colored water in all the odd-numbered ones. Keep the even-numbered jars empty. Roll a sheet of paper towel and bend it in the middle. Place one end in a water-filled glass and another in an empty one. Stare at the experimental setup and observe water “walking” from the water-filled cups to the empty ones. The mixing of the colors will also develop new hues in the even glasses.

Learn More:  The Best Ideas For Kids

44. Watch the Water Rise

Fix a lit candle on a plate. Pour water onto the plate. Add color to the water with a dye to improve visibility. Lower an upside-down glass over the candle to completely cover it. As the flame burns out, the water will rise in the glass.

Learn More:  Frugal Fun 4 Boys

45. Why Do Leaves Change Color?

In this simple experiment, kids will learn that there are many pigments present in leaves, but since chlorophyll is the most dominant, it imparts a green color. Take a leaf and break it into pieces. Place it in a jar containing alcohol. This will transfer all the pigments to the solution. Dip one edge of a coffee filter into the solution and observe the separation of colors as the liquid rises on the strip.

Learn More: How Wee Learn

40+ Easy Science Experiments For Students: Lots Of Great Ideas

Categories Activities & Ideas

Science is one of the most intriguing subjects to learn in school. It’s so varied and it can be a lot of fun for kids – especially when it comes to conducting science experiments. However, science experiments do not always have to be about beakers and bunsen burners. There are several ways that students can conduct easy science experiments, and it does not require a lot of resources or money to do so.

But what exactly are the options?

Well, if you are a teacher or a parent looking for easy science experiments for students, then we’ve got you covered. Our comprehensive list below shows you plenty of options that they can take part in.

So, if you’re ready to find out a lot more – then read on for lots of ideas!

Easy Science Experiments For Students! 

Without any further delays, let’s dive right into this list of some easy science experiments for students. We’re sure that your young minds will love some of these!

1. Dancing Pepper

Perhaps one of the most intriguing and fun experiments is the dancing pepper experiment. It shows kids how substances behave differently when placed on water in an effort to show how molecular behavior can differ with surface tension.

This can result in some things appearing to dance, so it’s a pretty fun experiment to observe! 

2. Colored Celery 

This is a pretty basic experiment but it can help to show kids how plants absorb water. You just need either celery or a white flower and some colored water. Once the celery is placed in the colored water, it can help kids to visualize how plants sustain themselves.

3. Dissolve Or Not?

This experiment can help teach kids about different solutions, but it’s more about showing kids the way to create their own hypotheses. For example, having six different substances and six different solutions, questioning whether it will dissolve and why they think so. 

4. Volcano (Baking Soda)

Every kid will have fond memories of this experiment. It’s a super fun and easy science experiment that shows how bases and acids react when they are in contact with one another, and it results in a miniature volcano! 

5. The Skittles Experiment 

This is a cool way to learn about diffusion. You simply need a packet of Skittles and observe what happens when each different color coating is exposed to shallow, cold or hot water. 

6. Burn The Bill 

Don’t panic, you won’t be burning any money with this experiment . It’s an easy way to teach kids about combustion, so you can use any paper item. 

7. Dr. Seuss’ Butter Experiment

Any fans of Dr. Seuss may recognize this experiment. You simply need to put heavy whipping cream into a tight jar and observe how the fat molecules clump together and form a butter product!

8. Liquids And Layers 

Using items that you can find in your pantry, this experiment can help to show kids how liquids have different densities and how they might operate.

9. Egg Crystal Geode 

Merging Springtime and Geology together, this is a fun experiment whereby kids can make their own geodes and learn about super-saturated solutions.

10. Make Rain In A Jar 

This quick and simple experiment can help to show students how rain occurs. As we know, rain is the result of warm, humid air converging with cold air in the upper atmosphere. 

So, using a jar and a plate, you can place ice and water into a jar and show kids how rain works by making your own in a jar! 

11. The Unpoppable Balloon 

Students will be intrigued by how you can put a sharp stick through a balloon and it won’t pop! It’s a quick and simple experiment that demonstrates polymers.

12. Float Or Sink?

This experiment is pretty basic but it’s quite important to learn. It can be conducted anywhere too, but it’s best during hot weather using a lake or river. 

Create a hypothesis with multiple items and question whether or not you believe certain items will sink or float. 

13. Make Your Own Sand 

Any kid will get a kick out of making their own sand ! The experiment doesn’t need too many resources or items, but it’s something you need to ensure before you start.

14. Make Your Own Barometer 

This experiment can help show kids how air pressure has an effect on the weather. The best way to do this is to build your own barometer! 

15. Create A Solar Oven

This is a quick and easy way to show students how radiant heat works. By harnessing its power, there are many things you can do! You just have to be careful.

16. The Sticky Ice Experiment 

It’s really fun to show students how salt has an effect on water and its freezing point. You need water, salt, and some string to carry this one out!

17. An Egg In A Bottle

Using a small bottle, some matches, and an egg, you can show your students how objects may react to adaptations in air pressure.

18. Make A CD Garden 

You’re certain to have some old CD cases around. If so, you can get kids involved in making their own CD case garden and observe the ways that plants grow!

19. The Gummy Worm Dance 

When an acidic liquid is mixed with a neutral solution, it’s possible for some things to react in hilarious ways that kids will love. Place a gummy worm in a jar and mix the solutions to watch your students laugh at the results.

20. Make A Green Penny 

If you have an old penny lying around, then why not test out this experiment , which takes about three days? It’s a cool way to learn about metal and chemical reactions , though! 

21. Soap Popcorn 

This experiment needs supervision from an adult, but it’s awesome to watch. Using Charles’ law, simply place a bar of soap in a microwave and watch how it expands as it heats up. 

22. The Cabbage PH Indicator 

Students can test out the PH levels of different liquids simply by using cabbage. It’s pretty simple to perform and it’s cool to watch.

23. Can Ice Grow?

This experiment needs to be followed step by step, but it’s really interesting to observe. With some basic steps, you can get your students to observe how ice might grow and form towers.

24. Paper Cup – The Strength In Numbers 

Using several paper cups and some cardboard sheets, this is an outdoor experiment that can help to demonstrate weight distribution and how paper cups can hold body weight when in numbers.

25. Separate Pepper And Salt 

Draw from the power of static electricity via a plastic spoon and show students how easy it is for matter to divide and separate – which can be shown with salt and pepper.

26. Fireworks In A Jar

At the right time of year, you can theme this experiment using oil, water, food coloring, and a jar. It’s a super fun project to help kids understand density – and the results are pretty! 

27. Water And Oil Discovery Bottles 

Most of us will be familiar with making water and oil discovery bottles from when we were kids, and it continues to be a super fun experiment for students today. All the bright colors are an awesome sensory experience for kids.

28. Color Mixing With Coffee Filters

This experiment is more for younger students, but it’s simple and effective. Using coffee filters, you can add liquids to watch how the filters absorb them and change colors, making mixes which make new colors.

29. Create Fizzy Lemonade 

A tasty experiment for the summer, this can help teach kids how mixing base liquids with acid creates a chemical reaction – but it results in something that you can enjoy at the end! 

30. Magic Milk 

This simple experiment needs a few items; milk, dish soap, and food coloring. This is a super colorful and fun thing to do and can help show kids how molecular behavior might work, how surface tension works, and a little bit about an object’s density.

31. Walking On Eggs 

Another experiment that can show the power of weight distribution is walking on eggs. Show your students how something so fragile can withstand body weight when in large numbers.

32. Create A Hydraulic Elevator 

This experiment sounds more complex than it actually is. You just need to use some sticks and large medicine droppers. It’s a classic experiment that many STEM teachers have used in the classroom before.

33. Demonstrate Inertia 

Newton’s first law of motion can be demonstrated pretty easily, and it’s never too early or too late to show students how it works! 

34. Grow Your Gummy Bears

When it comes to students and science, what better way to teach them than using candy ? Using all areas of the major sciences, you can turn little gummy bears into big gummy bears! 

35. The Disappearing Egg Shell

Students of all ages enjoy watching this experiment , and it’s helpful to show them the ways that chemical reactions operate.

36. Coca-Cola Tooth Experiment 

This is a classic experiment that can help show students the effects of sugary drinks on their teeth. When your students are young and losing their baby teeth, ask them to bring in a tooth and show them the horrible effects in a jar! 

37. Small Tornado In A Bottle

Most of us performed this experiment when we were students, and it’s super fun to keep it going with your own students. Demonstrating centripetal force by creating a water vortex in a bottle is awesome! 

38. Make A Bag Leak-Proof

Another experiment that demonstrates polymers, you need a plastic bag, some water, a sharp pencil, and some patience – and you can show kids the seemingly impossible!

39. Make A Non-Newtonian Fluid 

There are substances out there that get firmer when pressure is applied to them, and these are known as non-Newtonian fluids. It’s really intriguing to see how fluids can behave in such ways, so your students are bound to get a kick out of this.

40. Demonstrate Capillaries

You can show kids how our capillaries function using items you can find pretty much everywhere. It’s super cool and colorful and you’re bound to excite everyone with this in the classroom.

41. Make Candy Rock 

Students, candy, and rocks – they go hand in hand! Your students will love to create their own candy rock and watch as the rock crystals grow.

42. Make The Super Bubble

You can show students how to make a better version of bubble mixture to create much larger bubbles, called superbubbles! 

43. Frozen Vegetable Oil Paintings

Here’s another classic experiment that most kids have conducted when they were in the classroom. It’s a fun way to show kids how some liquids behave when they are frozen, and as vegetable oil behaves differently – you can make awesome paintings! 

44. Make An Ice Magnifying Glass 

This experiment is pretty simple, but we like to add something more fun to it. Once you have made your ice magnifying glass, show your students how glass behaves underwater by designing a real magnifying glass (do not allow them to do this though).

Glass under water can be cut and sliced in much different ways than above the surface, so you can easily create your own glass designs to show your students in a safe way.

45. Can Eggs Float?

Finally, on our list, we have the experiment that has shown students for years how eggs can float on water if salt is added to the liquid. It’s a simple way to explain density, and it’s always a good idea to bring in the Dead Sea example.

The Dead Sea is so salty that people can simply float on its surface, but it’s also deadly because if you turn around – it’s difficult to get your head out of the salty water! 

Things To Remember

There are always things you should remember when it comes to these sorts of experiments. Some are much more obvious than others, but it’s always important to ensure we’re on the same wavelength. These include the following.

Safety 

Conduct a health and safety risk assessment before you carry out any experiment, and always be aware of any safety equipment you and your students may need to wear. Be sure to take reasonable care with all of your experiments (and best to do a trial run first!).

Reinforce Learning 

It’s all fine and good demonstrating the experiments, but you must ensure that you reinforce the student’s learning by asking questions at the end of the lesson. It’s also wise to set some theoretical homework based on their practical experiment. 

Do Your Research 

It’s of course critical that you know exactly what you are doing before you show your students, but it’s also as important to know your students. For example, if an experiment is more tailored for younger students, do not try it for older kids.  You may also like: 1st grade science project ideas .

The Bottom Line 

And that’s our comprehensive list of the easiest science experiments that you can show students in the classroom, at home, or out in the field! We hope you have enjoyed our guide and you’ve found some amazing new experiments for your students! Good luck.

Top tip: Teach your students about the most famous inventors while they work on their own science experiments.

• Recent Posts

• Homeschooling In High School: Pros And Cons - February 24, 2024
• How Do I Withdraw My Child From School To Homeschool? - February 23, 2024
• How To Not Go Crazy Homeschooling Kids: A Guide For Frazzled Parents - February 22, 2024

Related Posts:

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Science Fun

Science Experiments for Kids:

Science experiments you can do at home!  Explore an ever growing list of hundreds of fun and easy science experiments. Have fun trying these experiments at home or use them for science fair project ideas. Explore experiments by category, newest experiments, most popular experiments, easy at home experiments, or simply scroll down this page for tons of awesome experiment ideas!

Making A Volcano:

Acids and Bases Can Erupt in Your Faces

Orange Fizz:

Awesome Experiments:

New Experiments:

Check Out Our Newest Experiments

Top Experiments:

Easy Experiments:

Storm In A Glass:

Home Made Play Dough:

Snow Fluff:

Snow Globe:

Squishy Turkeys:

Rainbow in a Glass:

Sizzlin’ Snowballs:

Jello Lenses:

Ice Fishing:

Super Cool Soda:

Jack-O-Cano:

Dancing Hearts:

Marbled Gift Wrap:

Massive Expanding Soap:

Surface Tension Art:

Fizzy Fruit:

Rotting Pumpkin:

Explode A Bag:

Invisible Extinguisher:

Paper Hovercrafts:

Fun Fossil Stamps:

Cool Crystals:

Balloon Pop! Not!

Solar Eclipse Kit:

Moldy Apples:

Cool Off Volcanoes:

Vinegar Pops:

Make It Rain:

Black Light Blue Beverage:

Changing of the Leaves:

Snowflakes:

Water Fireworks:

Mind of a Student:

Balloon Speakers:

Polar Bear Blubber:

Gorgeous Gooey Gobstoppers:

Olympic Medals:

Dyed Flowers:

Rain, Rain, Don’t Go Away Gauge:

Blossoming Beans:

Butter Fingers:

Polishing Pennies:

Dancing Liquid:

Floating Egg:

Bendy Bones:

Pot Of Gold:

Layers of Liquids:

Crystal Candy:

Easy Science Experiments for Kids

Looking for some easy experiments to do with the kids? We’ve got you covered with all of our favourite, easy science experiments for kids. The best part about all of these ideas is that they may be simple, but the lessons are powerful! Plus they can be adapted for a wide variety of ages and learning environments.

100+ Genius Easy Science Experiments for Kids

Disclaimer: This article may contain commission or affiliate links. As an Amazon Influencer I earn from qualifying purchases. Not seeing our videos? Turn off any adblockers to ensure our video feed can be seen. Or visit our YouTube channel to see if the video has been uploaded there. We are slowly uploading our archives. Thanks!

Fun Science Experiments

First let’s kick things off with a list of easy science experiments for kids that we have done many times over and are a favourite of STEAM Powered Family readers around the world. Almost all of these projects use common household items and are tested by kids and teachers. We have science experiments for all ages, from preschool to middle school, even adults love to do these. The best part is that you can use these ideas to help students gain comfort and eventually mastery of the Scientific Method . This list is also a fantastic place to find ideas for your science fair projects.

Baking Soda and Vinegar Experiments

It is incredible the number of cool science experiments you can create from this one simple chemical reaction between Baking Soda and Vinegar . This endothermic reaction, is a classic acid and base chemical reaction.

Here is the chemical formula of this reaction

C 2 H 4 O 2  + NaHCO 3  -> NaC 2 H 3 O 2  + H 2 O + CO 2 vinegar + sodium bicarbonate -> sodium acetate + water + carbon dioxide

Some of our favourite baking soda and vinegar science activities of all time include Bottle Rockets , Fireworks Experiment , Baking Soda Oobleck , and Hatching Dinosaur Eggs . No matter which one you pick, you must try at least one vinegar and baking soda experiment when little scientists are first learning about chemistry.

Balloon Races – Physics Science Experiment

This fast paced, exciting science experiment explores the principles of physics and Newton’s Laws of Motion. It is so simple, kids won’t believe how much they are learning while having fun! Balloon Races make a fantastic activity for the classroom, camp, after school program or at home when the kids need to burn off some energy while learning!

Build a Compass – A Magnetism Science Experiment

Did you know it is actually very easy to build a compass ? All you need is a bowl of water, a needle and a cork! Have your children explore the same magnetic forces that inspired Einstein as a child in this fun science experiment.

Lollipop Layers Density Experiment

Density is such a fun phenomenon to explore, and in this version of a density experiment we are using candy! Lollipop layers is so simple, all you need is a bunch of lollipops or hard candies, water, and a patient hand. The result… GORGEOUS!

Greenhouse Effect Science Experiment

Climate change experiments are so important for helping foster a deep understanding in our students. In this Greenhouse Effect Science Experiment we learn how gas are changing the atmosphere and affecting global temperatures.

Volcano Experiment

A classic science project for kids, making a volcano can be as simple or as complex as you want to make it. The goal of the exercise, a big, bubbly reaction that is sure to WOW students. Here are some of our favourite Volcano Experiments we have done.

Have you ever made a Lava Lamp at home? This sensory science experiment is mesmerizing! Watching those bubbles bounce and dance and play is sure to capture students of all ages. Best of all, we have 5 different ways you can make a Lava Lamp (including the old favourite with alka seltzer), so no matter what supplies you have available, we have a Lava Lamp experiment you can do.

Make Milk Plastic

While teaching elementary science I was always on the hunt for cool science experiments that would impress my kids and really stretch their interests and foster their curiosity. One of the biggest hits of all time was a surprisingly simple experiment, that we never really considered as possible… making plastics. Specifically making bioplastics out of milk . With this concept you can create a lesson that is a powerful way to explore polymers with kids. This easy science experiment is a sure fire hit with students and gives them a wonderful keepsake of their studies.

Bouncy Naked Egg in Vinegar Experiment

Have you ever tried to shell a raw egg? Impossible you say? Challenge your hypothesis in this egg in vinegar science experiment ! Not only will you remove the shell from a raw egg, but the result is a bouncy, rubbery, raw egg. An incredibly simple science experiment, it can also be used to teach higher level concepts in osmosis and biology for students learning about the parts of the cell.

Making Water Rise Experiment Magic

When we did this water experiment the kids jaws hit the floor! It is so simple, but the results shock the kids. This is one very easy science experiment that is also incredibly memorable. It teaches the science of creating a vacuum in a very simple approach with just a jar, water and a candle. Learn how to make water rise and wow your students!

Elephant Toothpaste

You have probably seen the Elephant Toothpaste Science Experiment done on TV or at the Science Center where they create a massive gusher that goes many feet into the air, but did you know there is a very simple and easy way you can do this experiment yourself with items you already have available? This classic science experiment is one every student should experience.

Frozen Bubbles

If you live where it gets well below freezing, one of our favourite winter science experiments is to freeze bubbles . There are some specific science principles you need to understand to ensure this experiment is a beautiful success!

Growing Crystals

As a crystal lover and passionate family of rock hounds, the idea of growing crystals is something that we love! Over the years we have found all the ways to simplify and perfect the process so you can easily grow gorgeous crystals and learn the science behind crystallization. We have made crystals from borax, alum and sugar. We even have edible crystals called Rock Candy … yum!!

Explore Surface Tension with Glitter (or Pepper) and Soap

Surface tension is the focus of this simple science experiment that provides a powerful demonstration of the effect soap has on surface tension. Do this easy experiment, all you need is a plate, water, glitter or pepper and dish soap. Such an easy science experiment for kids!

Bottle Crush – Simple Heat Transfer Experiment

Got a soda pop bottle, some hot water and a cold winter day (or a bucket of ice)? Then you have all the makings of a cool science experiment! This this Bottle Crush science experiment , kids feel like all powerful magicians as they crush plastic bottles without touching them.

pH Testing Lab

Have you ever done a pH lab ex periment? In this simple version, you can use items from the kitchen to create a science lab that allows students to explore pH and learn more about acids and bases.

Gummy Mummies – Gummy Bear Mummification Experiment

Gummy Bear Science Experiments are always a hit with kids and in this easy science experiment we explore how the mummification process works. Add an extra fun comparison by also placing some of the gummy bears in liquid.

Walking Rainbow

Want a beautiful rainbow science experiment that is soooo easy it all happens without you even needing to do anything? Simply set it up, walk away, and come back to a beautiful rainbow of colours. In the Walking Rainbow Science Experiment kids learn about capillary action and color mixing. All you need is jars, paper towels, water and food coloring.

Rainbow Rain

On a rainy day, why not make Rainbow Rain in this simple science experiment for kids. The results are beautiful and will brighten a dreary day. All you need is water, shaving cream and a few drops of food colouring.

Skittles Experiment

It doesn’t get any easier than the simple Skittles Experiment . All you need is a plate, some Skittles and water. Soon you will have a spectacular science experiment the kids will beg to do again and again.

It’s been all the rage for a few years, and whether you love it or hate it, making slime can actually be a fantastic science experiment for kids.

Ready to do one of the most simple science experiments, but also the most fun? It’s time to make non-Newtonian Fluids! Known as Oobleck , it turns sold under pressure and liquifies when you remove pressure. And it will keep kids learning hands on and exploring for hours! The best part is all the different science experiments you can do with Oobleck.

Now when you think of Moon Dough , you don’t immediately think of easy science experiments for kids, but that’s because you have never made Moon Dough the way we make Moon Dough! In our recipes we learn about emulsifiers, glow in the dark science, chemical reactions, heat transfer, all while having so much fun exploring science and sensory play with kids of all ages.

Making playdough with your kids is a great way to teach them about mixtures, solutions, substances, and chemical changes. It is also teaches about the importance of formulas and the role each ingredient plays in creating one of the all time most popular sensory play items, playdough!

Magic Milk Experiment

Ready for some serious wow factor in a really easy science experiment? Magic Milk is a classic experiment that always mesmerizes kids. Over the years we have used it to learn about surface tension, space, pollution on Earth Day, and so much more. All you need is milk, dish soap and a drop of food colouring… and watch the magic colour explosion happen!

Simple Snow and Ice Experiment

Is it winter where you live? This is a fantastic, very simple and easy experiment to do with young students. All you need is some jars, snow, ice cubes and water… and watch the melting magic !

Heat Transfer Experiment – Slurpee Making

Kids love this simple slurpee science experiment where they get a cold, sweet treat at the end in the form of a homemade slurpee! Using the science of heat transfer, kids will make their very own slurpee out of juice. A great experiment for learning about temperature, heat and heat transfer.

Flying Ghosts Tea Bag Experiment

Obviously this easy science experiment is perfect for Halloween, but don’t let that stop you from doing it at any time during the year. The results of the flying tea bag experiment are always a hit with kids and all you need is fire and a tea bag to set flight to curiosity!

Ice Fishing

Inspire your little ones to learn more about how salt and water react in this fun ice fishing science experiment .

Water and Oil Experiment

Demonstrate how oil and water don’t mix in this colourful oil and water experiment. All you need is a few simple ingredients: water, oil and food colouring. When it comes to easy science experiments for kids, it doesn’t get easier than this!

Magnet Science – Harry Potter Inspired Wingardium Leviosa

Use the magic of science to wow students, or teach students this experiment so they can wow their friends with their new found magical abilities. You can also use this science to make ghosts fly! Who knew magnet science was so cool?

Marshmallow Science

Marshmallows are the secret to easy science experiments that you never knew existed in your pantry! Learn how to teach concepts around heat, molecules, expansion and more in this marshmallow science experiment .

Sky Science

Kids wondering why the sky changes colour during sunrise and sunsets? Or the always famous, why is the sky blue, question? Explore the science of the sky colours in this easy experiment .

Easy STEM Challenges

Why not combine Science with some Technology, Engineering and Math in these easy STEM Projects for kids.

Build a Popsicle Stick Catapult

One of the original STEM projects kids have been building for generations is the simple catapult. There are lots of different ways you can build a catapult, but here we are making the always easy and popular Popsicle Stick Catapult .

Build a Water Clock

This easy STEM project has some significant historical context that your history loving students will go wild over. Plus building a water clock is surprisingly easy but packs a powerful learning punch.

Make a Glow Salt Circuit

Before you start to worry, building a circuit doesn’t have to be difficult. In fact, once your students master the basics of electricity and circuits, they will want to start adding circuits to everything. To get started, one of the most simple circuit projects you can make is our Glow Salt Circuit . Don’t worry, we provide all the detailed instructions to ensure your project is a hit.

Build a Battery

Another great way to explore electricity science is to build a simple battery out of food. We have built Lemon Batteries , Pumpkin Batteries and even Potato Batteries . Kids love capturing the energy in our foods and using it to light up!

Build a Bridge

A bridge building challenge is a great way to challenge a class either in school, at camp or in an after school program. Kids get to let their innovation, creativity, and understanding of science and engineering go wild as they build their creations. Then test them out against other designs to see which concepts come out on top.

Rube Goldberg Machine

Building simple machines is an incredible STEM project for all ages. With a Rube Goldberg Machine you are linking simple machines into a chain reaction to achieve an end goal. The best part about a Rube Goldberg Machine project is that it challenges students to work together and apply critical thinking and problem skills as they develop their STEM literacy. Check out the Rube Goldberg Machine we built as a Leprechaun Trap .

Build a Catapult Cannon

Catapults may be fun, but as kids get older, they want bigger challenges, bigger launches and bigger fun with their learning. Enter the Catapult Cannon , a Catapult design that launches harder and farther than your regular catapults, and challenges students to apply more advanced engineering and physics concepts.

Build a Confetti Cannon or Seed Bomb Launcher

For a smaller scale challenge with mini cannons, try making this Confetti Cannon , which includes two different designs, one for little learners and one more complex design for older kids. Plus you can use a similar design concept to make a Seed Bomb Launcher for homemade Seed Bombs.

Tower Construction Challenge

A very easy STEM Project is to challenge kids to build a tower. Now you can do this with blocks or LEGO, but up the challenge by having kids build with candy , marshmallows , paper, pasta or even frozen bubbles . Add a time limit to turn this into a one minute STEM challenge.

Make a Thaumatrope

Optical illusions are always a fun experiment for kids. For a quick and easy optical illusion for kids, try building Thaumatropes . It is so easy, especially with our ideas and templates.

Build a Balloon Car

This is a STEM build that is perfect for a classroom or after school group. Build a Balloon Car that is powered by air. For younger kids, challenge them with the Make It Move STEM Challenge .

Biology Science Building Models

Turn a boring Biology lesson into a fun science class with a STEM project inspired by the human body. Build functioning models of The Lungs , The Heart or The Hand .

Science Projects and STEM Activities for the Holidays

Need something specific to celebrate the seasons or holidays? Check out all of these resources featuring the best in easy science experiments for kids with a special theme!

Spring Activities

Summer Activities

Fall Activities

Winter Activities

End of School Year

Valentine’s Day

St. Patrick’s Day

Halloween Activities

Christmas Activities

5 Days of Smart STEM Ideas for Kids

Get started in STEM with easy, engaging activities.

45 Easy Science Experiments for Kids

Hello, STEM! These simple DIY activities can be done at home or in school.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Imagine blowing the biggest bubbles imaginable — or even making bubbles within bubbles. Or sending vessels — rockets, tea bags, airplanes — soaring through the sky for impossible distances. Now imagine making things explode, or change colors, or reveal hidden messages with just a few simple mixtures.

None of this is magic. It's all science that you can do at home, most likely with ingredients you already have in your house. So, next time you need a boredom-busting indoor activity on a rainy day or a DIY project to get their minds humming, try one of these best at-home science experiments for kids , which cover topics like cover magnetism, surface tension, astronomy, chemistry, physics and more.

First off, it's good to start them off with the scientific method. Give them a journal to record their observations, questions, hypotheses, experiments, results and conclusions. As always, safety counts: wear goggles and coats or aprons if need be (sometimes kids get a kick out of how scientific the protective gear makes them look), and always make sure that the kids are supervised when doing them. (Warning: Some of these are messy!)

These experiments are mostly designed for preschoolers through elementary schoolers — with a couple that are either demonstrations or better for older kids — but if you have a younger one, you can check out these 1-year-old learning activities , toddler learning activities and preschool/kindergarten learning activities , some of which also cover STEM subjects.

Floating Fish

Here's another one that deals with solubility and density.

• Draw the outline of a fish on the bottom of a glass plate or tray in dry-erase marker. Retrace your drawing to make sure all the lines are connected. Let dry for a minute or two.
• Fill the measuring cup with tap water. Place the pour spout just inside the corner of the dish and add water very slowly until it just covers the bottom. Be careful not to pour water directly onto your drawing or make splashes near it. The water will move toward your drawing, eventually surrounding it. Observe what happens. If the water splashes or it doesn’t work on your first try, empty the dish, erase the drawing with a paper towel, dry off the dish, and try again.
• Tilt the dish slightly from side to side. What happens? Jot it down.

The ink in dry erase markers is engineered to be slippery. It’s made with a chemical that causes it to easily release from surfaces. (Permanent markers are made with a chemical that makes the ink stick to surfaces, so be sure not to use these in your experiment!)

The easy-release ink lets go from a surface, but why does it float? There are two reasons. First, dry erase ink isn’t soluble, which means it won’t dissolve in water. Second, dry erase ink is less dense than the water, so it becomes buoyant, meaning it can float. When you tilt the dish, the fish moves around on the water’s surface.

From Good Housekeeping Amazing Science: 83 Hands-on S.T.E.A.M Experiments for Curious Kids! See more in the book »

Brush, Brush!

This one will really get them into brushing their teeth once they scientifically prove all the good things that toothpaste can do.

• Write on sticky notes: Soda 1, Soda 2, Juice 1, and Juice 2. Place them in a row on a counter.
• Fill two glasses halfway with brown soda and place behind the Soda 1 and Soda 2 sticky notes. Fill two glasses halfway with lemon juice and place behind the Juice 1 and Juice 2 sticky notes.
• Carefully place one egg in the bowl. Squeeze a big dollop — about one tablespoon — of toothpaste on top of the egg and gently rub the toothpaste all around with your hands until the egg is completely covered in a thick layer of toothpaste. Repeat with a second egg.
• Gently submerge the toothpaste-covered eggs into the liquids: one egg in the glass labeled Soda 1 and the other egg in the glass labeled Juice 1. Wash and dry your hands.
• Gently submerge the remaining eggs, without toothpaste on them, in the remaining glasses: one in the glass labeled Soda 2 and the other in the glass of juice labeled Juice 2. Wash and dry your hands. Leave the eggs in the glasses for 12 hours.
• After 12 hours, remove the eggs from the glasses of soda one at a time. Rinse them in cool water and pat them dry with the towel. Place each egg by the sticky note of the glass it was in. Are the eggs the same or different colors?
• Remove the eggs from the glasses of juice one at a time. Rinse them under the faucet and pat them dry. Place each egg by the sticky note of the glass it was in. Feel the eggs gently. Does one feel stronger or weaker than the other?
• Write down your observations in your science notebook.

The eggshells in this experiment represent the enamel (outer coating) on your teeth. Toothpaste cleans your teeth and prevents stains: it removes food and drink particles that are stuck on your teeth. Teeth can be stained easily by dark-colored liquids like cola, coffee or tea. The egg without toothpaste will be brown and discolored. The egg covered in toothpaste was protected from turning brown.

Toothpaste also protects your pearly whites from decay (breaking down). The egg without toothpaste left in the lemon juice was worn down and soft to the touch, while the egg that was protected with toothpaste is stronger. The lemon juice is acidic, and those acids broke down the shell just as acidic drinks can wear away your tooth enamel. When a tooth is worn down, a cavity can form more easily. But the fluoride in toothpaste mixes with your saliva to create a protective coating around your tooth enamel. It helps keep your teeth strong and cavity-free.

Grow an Avocado Tree

For an easy lesson in Earth Science, your family can grow an avocado tree from a pit. You can buy an AvoSeedo kit , or just peel the seed and suspend it over water with toothpicks.

Get the tutorial »

Milk Bottle Xylophone

No for an experiment in sound!

• Arrange six glass jars or bottles, all the same size with no lids, in a line. What will each jar sound like when you tap it with a spoon? Make a prediction, then tap each jar. Record your observations.
• Next, put water in each of the jars. Pour 1⁄4 cup (60 ml) of water into the first jar. Add 1⁄2 cup (120 ml) of water to the second jar. Continue in 1⁄4-cup increments, adding 3⁄4 cup (180 ml) of water to the third jar, 1 cup (240 ml) of water to the fourth jar, 11⁄4 cups (300 ml) of water to the fifth jar, and 11⁄2 cups (360 ml) to the sixth jar. Add a couple of drops of food coloring to each jar.
• What will each jar sound like? Will they sound the same or different than when the container was empty? Will they sound the same or different from one another? Record your predictions.
• Tap each jar with a metal spoon. Write down your observations about each jar’s pitch (how high or low a sound is) in your notebook.

Sound waves are created by vibrations, which are back-and-forth movements that are repeated again and again. Pitch depends on the frequency of the waves — how many are created each second. A high pitch is created by high-frequency sound waves, and can sound squeaky. A low pitch is created by low-frequency sound waves, and sounds deep and booming.

When you tapped the jar, it vibrated. The vibrations traveled from the jar to the water to the air and eventually to your ears. The jars with more water had a low pitch. The sound waves vibrated more slowly because they had more water to travel through. The jars with less water had higher pitches. The sound waves vibrated faster because they had less water to travel through. A jar with no water in it makes the highest pitch because it has the least substance to travel through.

"Elephant Toothpaste"

Okay, elephants don't really brush with this stuff, which is made from a chemical reaction between hydrogen peroxide, yeast, dish soap and a few other simple ingredients. But this experiment has a big "wow" factor since, when the substances are mixed, the "toothpaste" foams out of the bottle. You can use it to teach kids about catalysts and exothermic reactions.

Get the tutorial at Babble Dabble Do »

DIY Compass

Explore the way magnetism works, and how it affects everyday objects, by magnetizing a needle and making a DIY compass. You can even spin the compass in the water, and it'll end up pointing the right way again.

Get the tutorial at STEAM Powered Family »

Craft Stick Chain Reaction

Kids can learn about the differences between potential and kinetic energy with this chain reaction. It makes a big impact: Once the tension is released, the pom poms go flying through the air!

Get the the tutorial at Science Sparks »

Color-Changing Invisible Ink

Kids will feel like super-spies when they use this heatless method to reveal pictures or colors written with "invisible ink." You can try different acid/base combinations to see which one makes the most dramatic result.

Get the tutorial at Research Parent »

Paper Bridge

Get the engineering back into STEM with this activity, which challenges kids to create a paper bridge that's strong enough to hold as many pennies as possible. How can they manipulate the paper to make it sturdier? (Hint: Fold it!)

See the paper bridge tutorial at KidsActivities.com »

Challenge your little scientist to lift up an ice cube with just a piece of string. It's possible ... with a little salt to help. Salt melts the ice and lowers the freezing point of the ice cube, which absorbs the heat from the water around it, making the water cold enough to re-freeze around the string.

Get the tutorial at Playdough to Plato »

Marshmallow Catapult

Another lesson in potential and kinetic energy, kids will love sending mini marshmallows flying in the name of science. Change some of the variables and see how that affects the marshmallow's trajectory.

Get the tutorial at Hello, Wonderful »

Leaf Breathing

It's hard for kids to picture how plants and trees "breathe" through their leaves — until they see the bubbles appear on a leaf that's submerged in water. You can also teach them about photosynthesis by putting different leaves in different spots with varying levels of sunlight.

Get the tutorial at KC EDventures »

Hoop-and-Straw Airplane

We all remember how to fold those classic, triangular paper airplanes, but these hoop-and-straw airplanes fly way better (and straighter). Experiment by changing the length of the straw and the size of the hoops and see how it affects the flight.

Get the tutorial at Mombrite »

Film Canister Rocket

Blast off! You don't need jet fuel to make these rockets go, just Alka-Seltzer tablets and baking soda, but they'll be amazed when they achieve lift-off! (Note: If you can't find old film canisters, tubes of Airborne work, too.)

Get the tutorial at Raising Lifelong Learners »

Coin Inertia

Stack up about five or so coins on a piece of cardboard and place it over a glass of water. Then, flick the cardboard out from on top of the glass. Do the coins drop into the water, or ride with the cardboard? Due to inertia, they drop into the water — a very visual (and fun!) demonstration of Newton's First Law of Motion.

Get the tutorial at Engineering Emily »

Apple Oxidation

What works best for keeping an apple from turning brown? Test to find out! Slice up an apple, and let each slice soak in a different liquid. Then take them out, lay them on a tray, and check the brownness after three minutes, six minutes and so on. Not only does this test the properties of different liquids, it also helps students practice the scientific method if they create hypotheses about which liquids would be most effective.

Get the tutorial at Jennifer Findley »

RELATED: 50 Fun Activities for Kids Will Keep Them Entertained for Hours

Coffee Ground Fossils

By making a salt dough with coffee grounds and pressing various shapes into it (toy dinosaur feet, seashells), kids can get a better understanding of how fossils are made. If you poke a hole in the top before it dries, the kids can hang their "fossils" up in their rooms.

Get the tutorial at Crafts by Amanda »

Chromatography Flowers

Chromatography is the process of separating a solution into different parts — like the pigments in the ink used in markers. If you draw stripes around a coffee filter, then fold it up and dip the tip in water, the water will travel up the filter and separate the marker ink into its different pigments (in cool patterns that you can display as a craft project). This family made the end-result even brighter by adding an LED circuit to the center.

Get the tutorial at Steam Powered Family »

Water Walking

You'll need six containers of water for this one: three with clear water, one with red food coloring, one with blue coloring, and one with yellow coloring. Arrange them in a circle, alternating colored and clear containers, and make bridges between the containers with folded paper towels. Your kids will be amazed to see the colored water "walk" over the bridges and into the clear containers, mixing colors, and giving them a first-hand look at the magic of capillarity.

Get the tutorial at Fun Learning for Kids »

Sunscreen Test

This experiment puts the A (art) in STEAM: Paint different designs on construction paper with different sunscreens, leave the papers out in the sun and compare the results. Then, hang your "conclusions" on your fridge.

Get the tutorial at Tonya Staab »

Marisa (she/her) has covered all things parenting, from the postpartum period through the empty nest, for Good Housekeeping since 2018; she previously wrote about parents and families at Parents and Working Mother . She lives with her husband and daughter in Brooklyn, where she can be found dominating the audio round at her local bar trivia night or tweeting about movies.

Parenting Tips & Advice

Teacher Says Never Bring Cupcakes To School

How My Son With Disabilities Is Making Friends

What to Do When a Kid Stares at Someone

The 1,000 Most Popular Baby Boy Names Right Now

80 Best Grandma Names That Are as Unique as She Is

Why Non-Nuclear Families Are on the Rise

100 Best Disney Baby Names

140 Chic French Baby Names

The 50 Best Animated Films to Watch With Your Kids

220 Top Gender-Neutral Baby Names

Here's What NOT to Do When Kids Go to College

The Case for the One-on-One Family Vacation

• MKE FUN MAP

100 Easy Science Experiments for Kids to do at Home (2024)

Welcome, young scientists! If you’ve arrived here today, you’re probably looking for easy science experiments for kids that you can do at home. 

Good news! There are literally hundreds of simple science experiments & STEM activities you can do at home, with materials you already have on hand.

We scoured the internet and practiced these experiments with our own young kids to test them out and make sure they were good ones. They’re super educational and so much fun for kids of all ages!

Each of these easy STEM challenges and science experiments will take about 30 minutes to complete from start to finish, and they’re a great way to teach simple science concepts that your kids will use in school.

The best part? They each use simple ingredients from around the house like food coloring, dish soap, paper towels, ice cubes, rubber bands, white vinegar, vegetable oil, and baking soda.

So, let’s dive in to our giant list of 100 fun science experiments for kids!

Chemistry Experiments For Kids

Invisible ink (chemical reactions).

In this fun experiment, your kids can write a secret message with invisible ink that they will learn how to reveal scientifically. Like all of these at-home science experiments, you need only basic materials, and it’s sure to be a big hit.

• lemon juice
• Cotton swab
• lamp or light bulb
• plain white paper
• bowl or cup

Mini Volcanos (Acid – Base Reaction)

This super easy baking soda and vinegar volcano eruption is a real crowd-pleaser for kids of all ages, and your kids will be begging to do it over and over again!

All you need is a few very basic household ingredients, and your colorful volcano will be erupting in no time. It only takes about three minutes to prep.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (8 oz) of Vinegar
• Plastic cup
• 3-4 Tbs of baking soda at least
• 1 tsp of dish soap
• Food coloring (or washable paint if you want to avoid staining)

Elephant Toothpaste (Exothermic Reaction)

H ave you heard of the elephant toothpaste experiment yet? It’s a blast! You will need an adult for this experiment. Kids of all ages will love learning about catalysts and exothermic reactions in this simple fun science activity

What You Need:

• 16-oz plastic soda bottle
• 1/2 cup 20-volume of 6% solution hydrogen peroxide liquid
• 1 Tablespoon dry yeast
• 3 Tablespoons of warm water
• Liquid dish soap
• Food coloring
• Safety goggles

Shiny Pennies (Oxidation and Chemical Reactions)

You definitely have some dirty pennies lying around your house, so let’s put them to good use in a classic science experiment that even young kids can enjoy. Pennies are copper, and they are often in circulation for years (yuck!), so they often appear very tarnished. In this experience, you’re going to see if soap or vinegar (or other liquids) do a better job at cleaning the exterior of the dirty copper penny.

What You’ll Need

• dirty pennies
• 2 paper cups
• Paper towel
• Different liquids from around the house (ketchup, soda, Diet Coke, etc.)

Orange Fizz (Acid – Base Reaction)

Discover orange fizz bubbles popping inside of your mouth! This sensory experiment is really fun for learning about acids and bases. And hardly any materials are needed.

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• Orange or clementine

Tie-Dye (Absorption and Chemical Bonding)

Who would have thought that everyone’s favorite t-shirt pattern is actually a great science lesson, too? As your child dyes the shirt, they’ll be observing water solubility and absorption in real time. The dyes are fiber-reactive, which means that a chemical reaction takes places between the dye molecules and fabric molecules so that they actually become one. The dye bonds with the fabric and actually becomes a part of it.

• Plastic gloves  
• White T-shirt or pillowcase
• Buckets or bins filled with water
• Rubberbands

Here are 10 Easy Tie-Dye Patterns For Kids . To learn how to wash and care

Exploding Soap (Air Expansion)

The Exploding Soap experiment is a surefire hit with all ages, and all you need is soap and microwave! (And a little help from your parents.)

Exploring Colors With Baking Soda / Vinegar (Chemical Reactions with pH)

I n this science activity for kids of all ages, your little scientists will create a chemical reaction, explore color mixing, AND create colorful artwork. Triple win!

• Tray (A baking sheet will do)
• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Ice Cube Trays or other containers to hold the colored vinegar
• Pipettes or eye droppers
• Liquid watercolors or food coloring

Water Cycle In A Bag (Evaporation, Condensation, & Precipitation)

This is one of the best science experiments to teach your kids about the water cycle, and it’s so easy to do! They’ll watch the water cycle in a bag play out right before their eyes.

• Zip lock bag
• permanent marker
• blue food coloring

Mixing Impossible (Immiscibility)

This super easy experiment involves mixing equal parts oil and water and adding a drop of food coloring to see what happens. Kids will love watching the food coloring make it through the oil. You will love how easy it is to set up and clean up!

• Several drinking glasses
• vegetable oil
• liquid food coloring
• a toothpick (if you have it)

Static Electricity Hair

Want to provide your kids with (literally) hair-raising good time? It’s super simple to teach your kids about static electricity with this easy, no-mess science activity.

What You need:

• an inflated balloon
• a piece of cloth

Rub the surface of the balloon with the cloth for at least40 seconds. Then, hold the balloon a short distance above your head and watch your hair stick to it!

What’s Happening:

T he balloon gains electrons from the cloth and becomes negatively-charged when you rub it together. Then, when the balloon touches you hair, it attracts your hair, which is positively charged.

Magic Milk Experiment

• Full Fat Milk
• Food Coloring
• Dawn Dish Soap
• Cotton Swabs

First, pour the milk in a small baking dish until the bottom is covered. Next, fill the milk with drops of food coloring. Glitter is optional!

Then, pour some dishwashing soap into a bowl, and dip your cotton swap tip into the dish soap to coat it. Then, gently touch your cotton swab to the milk and watch what happens!

Milk is composed of minerals, proteins, and fats, which are easy to change. When you add the dish soap to the milk, the soap molecules try to attach to the fat molecules in the milk.

When everything stops moving, you can see where all the fat molecules are.

Melting Snowballs

This is another acid and base experiment, and it’s perfect for a winter day (or any time of year!) when you’ve got cabin fever.

• Baking Soda

First, form snowballs by adding water to the baking soda. You’ll need about a 1/3 cup per snowball. Then, place them in the freezer for 15 minutes. Finally, pour drop of vinegar on the snowballs and watch them sizzle and melt. You can also make a snowman and do the same thing!

More Quick Chemistry Experiments:

• Rock Candy Experiment – Grow colorful rock candy in a glass!
• Naked Egg Experiment – Dissolve an eggshell with vinegar and see the membrane below!
• Balloon Magic – Blow up a balloon without blowing, using vinegar and baking soda.
• Egg Teeth – Explore how sugar affects teeth in this easy experiment.
• Make Butter – Shake cream and turn it into butter!
• Ice Cream in a Bag – Turn simple ingredients into delicious ice cream.
• Moldy Bread Experiment – See how important it is to wash your hands in the viral science experiment. Exploding baggie – Use a simple chemical reaction to explode a plastic zip close baggie. 
• Flame-Proof Balloon – Use cold water to make a balloon resistant to a fire’s flame!
• Rotten Banana Balloon – Use that rotten banana in your kitchen to blow up a balloon. You can also try it with a lemon. (Here’s the Lemon Balloon Trick .)
• Mouth-Foaming Fun – Experience a chemical reaction first hand while brushing your teeth.
• Smashing Seashells – Discover how to easily smash seashells with vinegar.
• Super Bubble Solution – Find out how you can make giant bubbles with an easy homemade solution.
• Water Fireworks – Create fireworks in a glass of water using this simple experiment with household ingredient.
• Dancing Corn Experiment – Explore and investigate carbon dioxide by making corn dance. 
• Homemade Bouncy Balls – Make your own bouncy ball toys with household ingredients.
• Steel Wool & Vinegar Experiment – Get a better understand of how things rust!

Physics Experiments For Kids

Jumping pepper (static electricity).

Have you ever seen pepper jump ? You’re about to! This simple experience using water, soap, and black pepper will get kids of all ages exploring the concept of surface tension.

• liquid soap
• black pepper
• a plate or bowl

Homemade Lava Lamp (Density & Buoyancy)

This simple lava lamp experiment is especially a hit with kids ages 4-12 (and beyond!), and it will take their favorite adults back a few decades, too! It’s a fun way to learn about density.

Food Coloring A clean plastic bottle or glass jar Vegetable Oil Baking Soda

Dry Erase Marker Magic (Surface Tension & Floating Objects)

Bring your drawings to life with nothing more than a glass plate, a dry erase marker, and a little water! Dive into this magical and straightforward dry erase marker experiment that will not only wow the kids but also ignite their curiosity about chemistry and physics. 

Poke-Through Science Tricks

Are you ready to wow your kids with some magical science tricks?

In these two fun experiments, you’ll learn how to poke pencils through a bag of water without a leak and push a needle through a balloon without popping it—both using nothing but simple household materials.

• Ziplock bag or balloon
• Very sharp pencils or needle

Light Refraction Magic

This super simple science experiment is really more of a magic trick, and it will teach your kids all about light refraction.

• Piece of Paper

Dancing Raisins (Buoyancy and Gas Bubbles)

Home science experiments don’t have to be complicated. My little ones liked watching the raisins dance and prance around the bubbled.

In this very easy science experiment that’s perfect for young kids, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that you probably already have in your household: clear soda, a glass of water, and a handful of raisins. With these simple ingredients, you’ll produce chemical reactions that your kids can watch in real time!

What You’ll Need:

• A clear glass of water
• Handful of raisins

Sink or Float? (Density)

Kids of all ages – but especially young children – will love this easy science experiment that builds a foundation to understanding density. This is one of our favorite science activities for the little ones!

• Two glasses of water
• Small items from around the house
• A piece of paper and a pen

Floating Eggs (Density and Buoyancy)

This experiment will show your child how things float differently in fresh water and salt water.

• 2 tall drinking glasses

First, fill one glass with water. Then, fill another glass with water and add 8 tablespoons of salt. Mix it up. Next, place an egg in both glasses. One will float and the other will sink. Adding salt to the water increases the water’s density which causes the egg to float.

DIY Parachute (Air Resistance & Gravity)

Looking for a fun, hands-on way to teach your kids about gravity? 

Building a DIY parachute at home is a great way to combine learning and creativity. Plus, you probably already have all the materials you need!

Materials You’ll Need:

• Plastic bag  (like a grocery bag)
• Yarn or string

Paper Airplanes

There’s no better way for kids to learn about aerodynamics than by making a paper airplane. Wow Fold, a paper airplane website, offers dozens of paper airplane designs and easy to follow instructions.

How far did you paper airplanes fly? Make some observations about what worked and didn’t work, and try again!

Flying Ping Pong

Your kids will love this flying ping pong trick, and there are only two things you need.

Steps: First, make sure your hair dryer is on a cool setting. Then, hold the ping pong above the nozzle and turn on the air. When you let the ping pong go, it should float! Next, try it on different settings. Try to see how far you can tilt your hair dryer before the ball drops.

Magnet Magic

Using simple household items, this activity helps kids practice sorting, classifying, and making predictions, while learning the basic principles of magnetism.

Materials You Need:

• A variety of small household objects (e.g., paperclips, coins, screws, buttons, erasers)
• Clear plastic box (like a recycled food container)
• Pipe cleaners
• Small containers for sorting

Sugar Water Rainbows (Density and Buoyancy)

If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity that brings science to life, this “ Sugar Water Rainbow ” experiment is perfect! 

• Food coloring 
• Water 
• 5 cups 
• Pipette or syringe

Walking on Eggs

You’ve heard about walking on eggshells, but what about walking on eggs? In this easy science experiments for kids – albeit a messy one – your kids will be astonished to see that they can actually walk on eggs without breaking them!

• 6 dozen eggs in their cartons-Drop cloth / newspaper

Lay down your drop cloth in case the experiment doesn’t work as expected!

Place the open egg cartons next to each other. Take off your sock and shoes and gently step onto the eggs keeping your feet flat. Step gently and slowly to not concertante force. Then bring up your other foot and carefully walk across the eggs.

The key is to evenly distribute your weight across many eggs, so no single egg bears too much pressure. Eggs are surprisingly strong when pressure is applied evenly across their surface, thanks to their arched shape, which helps them distribute force efficiently.

Disappearing Reflection

Make your reflection vanish! All you need is aluminum foil.

• Aluminum Foil
• Scissors (optional)

Rip off a large piece of aluminum foil (ten inches should do) and take a look at your reflection. Then, crumple up the aluminum foil. Next, Carefully flatten it back out. Finally, look for your reflection. It’s nowhere to be found!

When the aluminum foil is smooth, light reflect off of it in straight lines, which enables you to see your reflection. But once you crumple the foil, it has a wrinkled surface that sends your reflection in all different direction, causing it to disappear.  

Defy Gravity!

Be like Elfaba and defy gravity with this extremely easy science experiment for kids. When you turn over a cup of water, you expect the water to spill and fall. But that’s not always what happens!

• Clear plastic cup
• Playing card or notecard

First, fill your clear glass about 3/4 of the way with water. Next press your playing card or notecard gently on the top of your glass to completely cover the top. Gently rotate the cup upside down. After a few moments, remove the card. The water will stay in place!

Try it again, adding something that will float in the water. Repeat the steps, and see what happens!

More Quick Physics Experiments:

• Giant Dish Soap Bubbles – Make a giant bubble with household ingredients.
• Layering Liquids – See how liquids can stack on top of each other according to density.
• Liquid Sandwich – Learn about density with water, oil, and honey.
• Step Through an Index Card – Amaze your kids by stepping through an index card that’s been strategically cut.
• Frozen Bubbles – Find out what happens when you blow bubbles in freezing temperatures.
• Big Stick Balance – This surprising experiment will teach kids about balance.
• Upside Down Reflection – All you need is a kitchen spoon to learn about the principles of reflection.
• Soap Boats – Explore density with this easy DIY boat-making activity.
• Water Bending Trick – Learn how to bend water with one simple thing you have lying around your house.
• Dry Paper Experiment – See how you can magically dunk paper in water and not make it wet.
• Bending Straw Illusion – Learn about light refraction in this quick and simple experiment.
• Magic Napkin – Learn about inertia with a napkin and a plastic cup filled with water.
• Talking String – Learn about sound waves and make a string “sing” by using one simple button.
• Noisy Paper – Create a loud vibration noise with just two pieces of computer paper.
• Make a Rainbow – See how you can easily create your own rainbow.

Biology Experiments For Kids

Rainbow celery (capillary action in plants).

Got some celery in the fridge? Then you can begin to l earn about capillary action with a simple and colorful color-changing celery experiment . It’s a really cool project that your kids are sure to remember for years to come!

What you need:

• Glasses of water

Traveling Rainbows (Capillary Action in Plants)

This colorful experiment is an easy way of demonstrating capillary action, water travel, and color mixing. Kids of all ages will love watching the color move through the paper towel on its own, and they’ll have a better idea of how plants get their nutrients.

• 6 glasses or jars
• Paper towels
• Food coloring (red, yellow, & blue)

Skittle Heart Experiment (Water Solubility)

This visually stunning experiment is not only a treat to watch but also a great way to explore concepts of water solubility and color mixing. Let’s dive into the simple Skittle Heart Experiment that will capture your kids’ hearts.

Homemade Slime (Polymers & Viscosity)

What kid doesn’t love slime? This is one of our favorite science experiments because it’s a sure kid-pleaser! In this basic recipe , you can make some of your own right in your kitchen, and have fun squeezing it with your bare hands all day long.

Slime has quickly become one of those classic science experiments that every family should try at least once!

• White school glue
• food coloring

More Quick Biology Experiments For Kids

• Map Your Taste Buds – Learn about your taste buds in this easy mapping activity.
• Growing Gummy Bears – Watch gummy bears grow before your eyes.
• Foot Fat Experiment – Compare the levels of fat in different foods with this simple experiment.
• Fingerprinting – Dive into the infinite world of fingerprints with a no. 2 pencil and paper.
• Sunscreen and Skin – Learn about the human body and how sunscreen works with this simple experiment using sunscreen and construction paper.
• Taste Bud 101 – Learn about the taste buds with this fun and interactive experiment.

Earth Science Experiments For Kids

Bird feeder fun.

In this simple science project, you’ll learn where birds like to have their meals.

• Pipe Cleaner

Place cheerios on a pipe clean and make a simple circle. Place it out for the birds to eat.

To experiment, place different bird feeders in different places and see if it makes a difference for how much gets eaten.

You could also make your bird feeder into different shapes to see how the birds prefer it.

It’s super simple to make a rain gauge from a soda bottle and track your area’s rain water! We did this easy science experiment at the start of the you-know-what, and it got us through another rainy day.

• Soda Bottle
• X-acto knife (with parental supervision)

Cut the top off of a soda bottle and invert the top so that the rain water funnels into the bottle. You may want to secure it with duct tape. Next, place it outside in a spot where it can collect rain water. You’ll want to secure it so it doesn’t fall over. Then, begin measuring the rain water each day!

More Quick Earth Science Experiments:

• Solar Oven S’mores – Cook up a tasty snack in a solar oven.
• Human Sundial – Become a human sundial to learn about solar patterns.
• Windowsill Trash – Demonstrate how the heat of the sun helps trash decompose
• Tornado in a Bottle – Create a cyclone in a bottle in this classic, simple experiment.
• Make a Sundial – Learn how to tell time with the sun by making a simple sundial.
• Shaving Cream Rain Clouds – learn about the water cycle with shaving cream. The shaving cream represents the rain cloud and the water is the atmosphere.

Engineering/Technology Experiments For Kids

Lego boats (buoyancy & design).

This experiements present a great opportunity to get kids thinking about engineering and design.

First, challenge your kids to build their own boat out of LEGO bricks. For an added challenge, only give them a certain number of pieces.

Once everyone has finished building, put the boats to the test in a tub of water.

Add pennies a few at a time to see how many each boat can hold.

Talk to your kids about how weight and design matter. Reflect on good designs and help them understand why they worked well.

Rubber Band Guitar

Tap into your musical side and explore sound with this simple rubber band guitar.

Paper or plastic cup Rubber bands

First, wrap your rubber bands of different sizes around the cup so that the rubber bands act as strings over the hole of the cup. Then, pinch the sides of them together as best you can and tap them around the sides of the cup. See what sounds they make, and experiments with rubber bands of various sizes to see what sounds they make!

Paper Cup Tower

Similar to the “walking on Egg” experiment listed above, this activity will wow your children as they discover they won’t crush the paper cups by standing on them!

• 8 paper cups

First, set the paper cups on the grounds, spaced evenly. Next, place the cardboard on top of them. Then, try to stand on it and see what happens. Can you make another level?

More Engineering Experiments for Kids:

• Egg Drop Project – See if you can build a contraction to protect an egg from breaking.

So, there you have it – 100 kids science experiments that are super easy to do at home! They all use simple household items and take about 30 minutes to complete.

If your child is interested in science check out the videos at How Stuff Works . It will keep them informed and entertained for hours! They also may be interested in reading about the latest news in science at Science News Explores .

Do you have other ideas for easy science experiments for kids? We’d love to hear about them! Email us at [email protected] to add your idea.

RELATED POSTS:

10 Best Cold Weather Science Experiments For Kids

Related Post: 100+ Science Trivia Questions for Kids

25 Best Science Books for Your First Grader

50 Best Fourth Grade Science Experiments

Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.

Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.

Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.

Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page  and Editorial Policy Page .

Related Posts

• 50 Backyard Haunted House Ideas Your Kids Will Love (2024)

• Swing Park Set For Changes: New Playground, River Theater, & More

• Exploring 1st and Bowl: A Unique Family Entertainment Venue in Milwaukee

• 6 Top Weekend Events For Kids (September 19-22, 2024)

• The Banned Wagon Tour Comes to Milwaukee and Beyond

• 5 Spookiest Haunted Houses Around Milwaukee (2024)

Recent Posts

• Scarecrow Lane Returns to Retzer Nature Center: Fall Fun For All Ages
• Best Little Pit Stop: Concord General Store & Petting Zoo
• Creekside Valley Farm: A Perfectly-Sized Fall Adventure in Mequon
• Cozy Nook Farm: Authentic Farm Experience With Cows, Tours, & Fall Fun
• Cedarburg Creek Farm: Free Hay Wagon Rides and Affordable Family Fun
• Buffalo Bill’s: U-Pick Pumpkins, Straw Mountain, and More
• Bear Den Petting Zoo: Hold a Baby Kangaroo and More
• Koz’s Mini Bowl: A Family-Friendly Throwback to Milwaukee’s Past
• Top 10 Family-Friendly Tours at Doors Open Milwaukee 2024
• China Lights Festival Returns to Boerner Botanical Gardens: A Family Favorite! (2024)
• Goldfish Swim School: Free Trial Lessons & an Exciting Giveaway!
• Just Announced: A Nostalgic Night with Macaulay Culkin & Screening of Home Alone
• Swan’s Pumpkin Farm: Quirky Corn City, Ponies, and More
• Basse’s Taste of Country: Fall Fun With All The Bells & Whistles
• Best Playgrounds
• Family-Friendly Restaurants
• Museums and Educational
• Art, Music, & Theater
• Indoor Play & Entertainment
• Sports & Recreation
• Gardens & Parks
• Hiking & Nature
• Spring Adventures
• Fall Fun in Milwaukee
• Holiday Cheer
• Milwaukee Family News
• Shopping & Services
• Special Needs
• Day Trips From Milwaukee
• Family Vacation Spots
• Science Experiments
• Crafts & DIY
• Birthday Parties
• Book Recommendations
• Outdoor Activities For Kids
• Educational Activities
• Games & Entertainment

Get Your ALL ACCESS Shop Pass here →

Elementary Science Experiments

Elementary science doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive! One of the best things about  science experiments for kids  has to be the ease with which you can set them up! Here are over 50 science experiments for elementary that are a super fun way to get kids engaged with easy-to-understand science concepts using simple materials.

Why Is Science So Important?

Elementary-age kids are curious and always looking to explore, discover, investigate, and experiment to find out why things do what they do, move as they move, or change.

At this age level, kiddos in 3rd-5th grade are ready to:

• ask questions
• define problems
• make models
• plan and do investigations or experiments ( best science practices here )
• make observations (both concrete and abstract)
• analyze data
• share data or findings
• draw conclusions
• use science vocabulary ( free printable words here )

Indoors or outdoors, science is definitely amazing! Holidays or special occasions just make science all the more fun to try! Science surrounds us, inside and out. Kids love checking things out with magnifying glasses, creating chemical reactions with kitchen ingredients, and of course, exploring stored energy for physics!

Check out  50+ AMAZING science experiments  to get started any time of the year.

Science starts early, and you can be a part of that by setting up science at home with everyday materials. Or you can bring easy science to a group of kids in the classroom!

We find a ton of value in cheap science activities and experiments. Check out our homemade science kit for a full list of supplies and materials you will want to have on hand. Plus, our free printable science worksheets!

Elementary Science Activities

The elementary years are the perfect time to get young kids excited about science! Kids are asking all sorts of questions about different areas of science, and they also are developing reading skills and a vocabulary that make recording beginning experiments so much fun!

We love to plan science activities seasonally, so students have a wealth of experiences. Here are some elementary science activities for the school year !

CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR FREE SCIENCE CHALLENGE CALENDAR!

Fall is a perfect time to study chemistry and this age is not too young to explore chemistry. In fact, our favorite erupting apple experiment is hands-down one of our favorite fall elementary science experiments. Using baking soda, vinegar, and apple, your students can see a chemical reaction with a fall fruit!

Apple Volcano

Apple Browning Experiment

Dancing Corn Experiment

Leaf Chromatography

Popcorn In A Bag

Pumpkin Clock

Pumpkin Volcano

When I think of Halloween elementary science experiments, I think of zombies, and when I think of zombies, I think of brains ! Don’t shy away from creepy, gooey activities this time of year!

Try making creepy frozen brains with your kids. This activity takes a brain mold, water, food coloring, eye-droppers, a tray, and a bowl of warm water.

Freezing a brain (and then melting it) will allow your students to explore melting ice and reversible change. Buy a couple of molds and have students work in groups if you have multiple students in a class.

Frozen Brain

Zombie Slime

Dissolving Candy Corn Experiment

Ghostly Structures

Halloween Density Experiment

Halloween Lava Lamp Experiment

Halloween Slime

Puking Pumpkin

Rotting Pumpkin Experiment

Thanksgiving

One of the most accessible fruits during Thanksgiving are cranberries! Using cranberries to build structures for STEM is also a great way to incorporate engineering into your classroom. Your students’ imaginations are the only limit to the structures they can create.

Cranberry Structures

Butter In A Jar

Cranberry Sink or Float

Dancing Cranberries

Cranberry Secret Messages

Fizzing Cranberry Experiment

Winter may be chilly in some parts of the country, but there are a lot of indoor activities for your elementary age kids to enjoy. Using printable STEM cards to let students solve different winter-related problems is so much fun!

From designing a fort to building a 3D snowman, there’s something for every child to do with STEM. STEM activities encourage collaboration and community. Kids work together in pairs or groups to solve mini problems or challenges.

Frost on a Can

Freezing Water Experiment

Ice Fishing

Blubber Experiment

Snow Ice Cream

Snow Storm in a Jar

Ice Melting Experiments

DIY Thermometer

Tis’ the season for science activities! Why not integrate the popular Elf on the Shelf into your classroom science activities?

Make some Elf themed slime to teach mixtures, substances, polymers, cross-linking, states of matter, elasticity, and viscosity in a beginning chemistry lesson!

This means you can use the other things that come with the “Elf” like welcoming messages, little notes to tell your kids to be on their best behaviors, and messages to deliver back to “Santa”!

Elf on the Shelf Slime

Fizzing Christmas Trees

Crystal Candy Canes

Bending Candy Cane Experiment

Santa’s Magic Milk

Scientific Christmas Ornaments

Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is our latest official winter holiday, but we have a lot of love for it! Study chocolate! This is another great way to study reversible change.

Have your students observe what happens when chocolate is heated up and figure out whether or not it can be reversed. Make sure to leave some chocolates untouched for a quick and yummy taste test!

Melting Chocolate

Crystal Hearts

Candy Hearts Oobleck

Heart Lava Lamp

Oil and Water Science

Valentine Slime

Try a BIG spring project with your students by building a DIY bug hotel! This insect habitat will give you a chance to get outside, learn about insects and their natural surroundings.

This project could incorporate journaling, research, as well as engineering and design. When you introduce your students to bugs in a scientific way, they are less likely to scream at spiders and all things creepy-crawly at recess time!

DIY Bug Hotel

Color Changing Flowers

Making Rainbows

Regrow Lettuce

Seed Germination Experiment

Cloud Viewer

Water Cycle in a Bag

Easter activities mean jelly beans! Dissolving jelly beans or making engineering marvels with jelly beans, toothpicks, and peeps (for glue) will bring a fun candy treat into your spring science study. Just like the chocolate, make sure there are extras for treats!

Dissolving Jelly Beans

Jelly Bean Structures

Dying Eggs with Vinegar

Egg Catapults

Marbled Easter Eggs

Peeps Science Experiments

Earth Day is one of my favorite times of the year for science activities in elementary. Our kids care deeply about their environment and are highly motivated to make a difference. Why not make this a school-wide activity.

Have your kids do some fundraising with penny wars or another easy to do fundraiser and buy a tree to plant at your school. This Earth Day activity brings communities together!

Carbon Footprint

Oil Spill Experiment

Storm Water Runoff Project

DIY Bird Feeder

Plastic Milk Experiment

Science Experiments By Topic

• 100 STEM Projects For Kids
• Scientific Method For Kids
• Chemical Reaction Experiments
• Baking Soda Experiments
• Water Experiments
• States of Matter Experiments
• Physics Experiments
• Chemistry Experiments
• Kitchen Science Experiments

Science Activities By Age Group

• Science for Toddlers
• Science for Preschoolers
• Science for Kindergarten
• Science for 1st Grade
• Science for 2nd Grade
• Science for 3rd Grade
• Science for 4th Grade
• Science for 5th Grade
• Science for 6th Grade
• Science for Middle School

Printable Science Projects For Kids

If you’re looking to grab all of our printable science projects in one convenient place plus exclusive worksheets and bonuses like a STEAM Project pack, our Science Project Pack is what you need! Over 300+ Pages!

• 90+ classic science activities  with journal pages, supply lists, set up and process, and science information.  NEW! Activity-specific observation pages!
• Best science practices posters  and our original science method process folders for extra alternatives!
• Be a Collector activities pack  introduces kids to the world of making collections through the eyes of a scientist. What will they collect first?
• Know the Words Science vocabulary pack  includes flashcards, crosswords, and word searches that illuminate keywords in the experiments!
• My science journal writing prompts  explore what it means to be a scientist!!
• Bonus STEAM Project Pack:  Art meets science with doable projects!
• Bonus Quick Grab Packs for Biology, Earth Science, Chemistry, and Physics

Subscribe to receive a free 5-Day STEM Challenge Guide

~ projects to try now ~.

Science Lab

Scaredy sand, lava lamp hack, ghost glove, ocean in a bottle, human spirograph, floating penny.

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your California Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell My Info
• National Geographic
• National Geographic Education
• Shop Nat Geo
• Customer Service
• Manage Your Subscription

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

• The Ultimate Guide to Coding for Elementary Students

Coding is becoming as essential as reading and writing in today’s tech-driven world. But where do you start when your child is still in elementary school? That’s where this guide comes in. Whether your little one is just curious about how their favorite video game works or already dreaming of creating the next big app, this article is your go-to resource. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from the basics of coding to choosing the right language, engaging projects, and overcoming challenges. By the end, you’ll be ready to help your child embark on their coding journey with confidence.

Table of Contents

Why Coding is Important for Elementary Students

Coding isn’t just about preparing kids for future jobs in tech; it’s about equipping them with the skills they need to thrive in any field. When elementary students learn to code, they’re not just playing with computers—they’re building critical thinking and problem-solving skills that will serve them throughout their lives. Coding teaches them to break down complex problems into manageable steps, think logically, and persist through challenges. These are skills that go far beyond the screen.

Moreover, coding fosters creativity and innovation. It gives young minds the tools to bring their ideas to life, whether through creating a simple game, an interactive story, or even a basic app. As they experiment and see their projects come to fruition, they gain confidence in their ability to create and learn. This early exposure to coding can spark a lifelong interest in technology and open doors to opportunities that might have otherwise seemed out of reach.

Read Also: 

• Coding Program for Middle School Students
• Coding for Homeschoolers: The Ultimate Guide for Parents
• ​​Programming Courses for High School Students

Getting Started: The Basics of Coding

Starting with coding may seem daunting, but it’s simpler than you might think—especially for elementary students. The key is to break down the basics into manageable, engaging pieces that spark curiosity and make learning fun.

What is Coding?

At its simplest, coding is the process of giving instructions to a computer to perform tasks. These instructions, known as algorithms , are like recipes that tell the computer what to do step by step. Just like following a recipe to bake a cake, coding involves creating a sequence of steps that the computer will execute.

Core Concepts to Understand

Before jumping into coding, it’s important to understand a few basic concepts:

• Sequencing : This is the order in which instructions are executed. Think of it like following steps in a recipe—each step must be completed in the correct order for the desired outcome.
• Loops : Loops allow the computer to repeat a set of instructions multiple times. For example, if you want a character in a game to keep moving forward until it hits a wall, you’d use a loop.
• Conditionals : These are the “if-then” statements in coding. They allow the computer to make decisions based on certain conditions, like “If the player clicks the button, then move to the next level.”

Kid-Friendly Coding Tools

To make coding accessible, there are several platforms designed specifically for kids:

• Scratch : A visual programming language where kids can create stories, games, and animations by snapping together code blocks like puzzle pieces.
• Blockly : Similar to Scratch, Blockly uses a drag-and-drop interface that simplifies coding concepts, making it easier for beginners to understand the logic behind their code.

Starting with these tools helps students grasp the basics of coding in a fun and interactive way, laying a strong foundation for more advanced learning down the road.

Read Also: Best Free Coding Websites and Apps for Kids to Learn Programming Skills

Choosing the Right Coding Language

When it comes to choosing a coding language for elementary students, the options can seem overwhelming. However, the key is to pick a language that matches your child’s age, interests, and learning style. Starting with the right language can make all the difference in keeping young learners engaged and excited about coding.

Factors to Consider

Before diving into specific languages, it’s important to consider a few key factors:

• Age-Appropriateness : Some languages are better suited for younger kids, offering visual and interactive elements that make learning intuitive. Others are more text-based and might be better for slightly older students who are ready for more complex challenges.
• Ease of Use : For beginners, especially at the elementary level, a language that doesn’t require typing out complex syntax is ideal. This reduces frustration and allows students to focus on understanding coding concepts rather than getting bogged down by technical details.
• Interest and Motivation : The right language should align with what your child enjoys. If they love creating stories, a language that supports interactive storytelling might be best. If they’re interested in games, a language that allows them to build simple games could keep them more engaged. Matching the language to your child’s interests can make learning more fun and effective.
• Future Learning Potential : Consider whether the language offers a pathway to more advanced coding skills. Languages like Blockly and Python are great for beginners but also provide a solid foundation for moving on to more complex programming languages in the future. This can ensure that your child’s learning has long-term benefits.
• Community and Resources : Having access to a strong community and plenty of learning resources is crucial. Some languages have a vast array of tutorials, online courses, and forums where beginners can find help and inspiration. A language with a supportive community can make the learning process smoother and more enjoyable.

Popular Coding Languages for Kids

Here’s a look at six popular coding languages that are ideal for elementary students:

• Scratch : Developed by MIT, Scratch is a block-based coding language designed specifically for young learners. It uses a drag-and-drop interface, allowing kids to create animations, games, and interactive stories. Scratch is perfect for beginners because it simplifies coding concepts while providing instant visual feedback.
• Blockly : Blockly, like Scratch, is a block-based language but offers more flexibility in transitioning to text-based coding. It’s an excellent choice for students who might eventually move on to more complex languages, as it helps them understand the logic behind coding without worrying about syntax.
• Python : Python is a text-based language known for its simplicity and readability, making it a popular first language for slightly older elementary students. It has a clean syntax that’s easy to learn and is used in a wide range of applications, from web development to data science.
• JavaScript : JavaScript is widely used in web development and is an excellent choice for students interested in creating interactive websites or online games. While more complex than Scratch or Blockly, JavaScript introduces fundamental coding concepts that are applicable across many languages.
• Swift : Swift is Apple’s programming language for developing iOS apps. Apple has created a version called Swift Playgrounds, designed specifically for young learners. This tool makes it easy for kids to experiment with code while building real apps, providing a great introduction to mobile app development.
• Ruby : Ruby is another text-based language known for its simplicity and ease of use. It’s often recommended for beginners because it reads like English, making it easier for students to understand what the code is doing. Ruby is particularly popular for web development but is also versatile enough for various projects.

Making the Right Choice

Ultimately, the best coding language for your child is one that they find fun and engaging. Start with something simple like Scratch or Blockly, and as they become more comfortable, you can introduce them to more complex languages like Python or JavaScript. The goal is to build a strong foundation that will support their growth as they continue to learn and explore the world of coding.

• Basic Programming Languages That Are Kid-Friendly
• Scratch Programming | Learn the Basics

Engaging Coding Projects for Elementary Students

Once your child has grasped the basics of coding, the next step is to put those skills into action with fun and engaging projects. Coding projects not only reinforce what they’ve learned but also ignite creativity and problem-solving skills. Here are some exciting project ideas that are perfect for elementary students and will keep them motivated to explore more.

Simple Animation

Creating a simple animation is a fantastic way for beginners to see their code come to life. Using platforms like Scratch, students can design characters, add backgrounds, and animate movements by snapping together code blocks. This project helps them understand sequencing and loops while allowing them to express their creativity. For example, they could animate a character walking across the screen or make a butterfly flutter through a garden.

Interactive Storytelling

Interactive storytelling combines coding with creativity and language skills. In this project, students can create a story where the characters respond to user inputs, like clicking or pressing keys. Using tools like Scratch or Tynker, they can build branching storylines where the plot changes based on the reader’s choices. This type of project is not only fun but also introduces the concept of conditionals in coding, as the story’s progression depends on specific conditions being met.

Simple Games

Building simple games is one of the most exciting ways to get kids hooked on coding. They can start with basic games like a maze or a catch-the-character game. Platforms like Blockly and Scratch provide templates and tutorials to help beginners create games with minimal frustration. These projects teach important coding concepts such as loops, conditionals, and event handling, all while giving kids the thrill of playing a game they made themselves.

• How to Make a Flappy Bird in Scratch: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
• How to Make Pac-Man on Scratch: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Digital Art Projects

For students who are more artistically inclined, coding can be used to create digital art. Using platforms like Scratch or even Python with libraries like Turtle, kids can code their own designs and patterns. They can experiment with loops and sequences to generate unique, repeating patterns or create interactive art that changes when the user clicks or moves the mouse. This project encourages kids to think about how coding can be used in creative and unexpected ways.

Virtual Pet

Creating a virtual pet is a fun project that combines several coding concepts into one. Students can code a pet that responds to different actions—feeding, playing, and sleeping—each action triggering a different animation or response. This project is especially engaging because it adds a nurturing element, making students feel more connected to their creations. It’s an excellent way to teach about conditionals, loops, and variables in a way that feels like play.

Music and Sound Projects

Kids who love music can explore coding through sound. They can create simple music tracks or sound effects using coding platforms that allow audio manipulation. Scratch, for example, lets students build projects where pressing different keys triggers different sounds, allowing them to create their own digital instruments. This type of project introduces them to coding concepts like loops and variables while letting them explore their musical creativity.

Encouraging Continuous Exploration

These projects are just the beginning. The key to keeping elementary students engaged in coding is to encourage continuous exploration. As they complete more projects, they’ll gain confidence and become more curious about what else they can create. The more they experiment, the deeper their understanding of coding will become, and who knows—they might just develop a lifelong passion for it.

Best Practices for Teaching Coding to Young Children

Teaching coding to young children is a rewarding journey. The key is to keep it fun and engaging while building a strong foundation for future learning. Here are some best practices to make coding enjoyable and effective for young learners.

Start with Playful Learning

Children learn best when they’re having fun. Use tools like Scratch and Blockly, which turn coding into a game-like experience. By framing coding as a playful activity, you can keep their interest and make learning feel like a game rather than a chore.

Encourage Creativity and Experimentation

Let your child explore their creativity through coding. Encourage them to try new things, make mistakes, and learn from them. Whether it’s designing a unique character or changing game rules, experimentation helps deepen their understanding and builds confidence.

Keep Lessons Short and Focused

Children have short attention spans, so keep coding sessions brief—20 to 30 minutes is ideal. Introduce concepts in small, manageable chunks, and let them practice with simple projects. Frequent, short sessions help reinforce learning without overwhelming them.

Use Real-World Analogies

Break down complex coding concepts with real-world examples. For instance, compare loops to repeating a song’s chorus, or explain conditionals as simple decisions like “If it’s raining, then use an umbrella.” These analogies make abstract ideas easier to grasp.

Balance Screen Time with Offline Activities

Mix screen-based coding with offline activities like coding puzzles or board games. This helps reinforce coding concepts in a more interactive way and reduces screen fatigue, while also making learning more social and collaborative.

Celebrate Achievements

Recognize your child’s progress, no matter how small. Celebrating their successes — whether it’s completing a project or fixing a bug — boosts their confidence and keeps them motivated to learn more.

By keeping coding fun, focused, and creatively engaging, you’ll help your child develop a strong foundation in coding that will benefit them in many areas of life.

Overcoming Challenges in Learning to Code

Learning to code is an exciting journey, but it comes with its own set of challenges, especially for young learners. Here’s how you can help your child overcome common obstacles in their coding education:

• Keeping Motivation High To maintain interest, start with projects that align with your child’s passions, like creating games or animations. Celebrate their successes, no matter how small, and remind them that persistence is key. Break problems into smaller tasks to keep them manageable and maintain motivation.
• Handling Frustration Frustration is normal in learning. Encourage your child to take breaks and return with a fresh perspective. Teach them that mistakes are part of the process and can lead to creative solutions. Present debugging as a fun challenge rather than a setback.
• Understanding Abstract Concepts Coding involves abstract ideas that can be tough for young learners. Use real-world analogies and hands-on activities to make these concepts more relatable. Visual tools like Scratch or Blockly help by showing the impact of their code in real-time, making complex ideas easier to grasp.
• Managing Complexity As projects grow more complex, they can feel overwhelming. Encourage your child to plan their projects in advance, breaking them into smaller, manageable steps. This approach helps them stay organized and builds essential problem-solving skills.
• Access to Resources and Support Ensure your child has access to learning resources like online tutorials, forums, and coding communities. Joining a coding club or online group can provide additional motivation and a sense of community, helping them see that others face similar challenges and overcome them.

By addressing these challenges with patience and the right strategies, you can help your child navigate their coding journey with confidence and success.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

David Dodge, the CEO and founder of CodaKid, is a game designer, kids coding expert, educator, Inc columnist, and speaker with experience teaching tens of thousands of kids in 60+ countries how to code. David is credited in the development of over 30 video game titles for Sega and Sony, and is the founder and software architect of Tutorware, a SaaS business application.

Our courses

• Roblox Coding
• Game Programming
• Specialty Courses
• Scratch Coding

All learning programs

Ways of learning

• Self-Paced Courses
• Private Lessons
• Online Camps
• Course catalog

'Abbott Elementary' brings mobile STEM lab to students across the country

If there’s one thing “Abbott Elementary” viewers know about main character Janine Teagues, it’s that she’ll do anything to make sure her students have access to the exciting learning experiences they deserve.

It’s only fitting, then, that ABC’s hit show has partnered with leading technology company MilliporeSigma to bring a mobile STEM lab to students across the country .

Meet the Curiosity Cube, a solar-powered shipping container turned mobile science lab. With promotional help from “Abbott,” this traveling classroom is raising awareness around STEM education and increasing access to high-quality, hands-on learning in some of the biggest cities in the country.

Leading up to the fourth season of the show — which premiers on October 9 — the Curiosity Cube is meeting students in spots like Boston, Houston, New York City, Washington D.C., and the show’s home city of Philadelphia. 

“Working with Abbott Elementary, we are raising the visibility of STEM to inspire and empower students and teachers with ‘aha’ moments from hands-on learning experiences, which is critical to sparking interest in science,” said Tim M. Jaeger , chief strategy and transformation officer of Merck KGaA, the parent company of MilliporeSigma. 

“We hope visiting the Curiosity Cube will spark students’ scientific curiosity with a fun experience that helps lead to a future career in STEM.” 

This year, all Curiosity Cube visitors will explore the sustainability and lifecycle of a T-shirt through three interactive experiments. They will utilize tools like modular electronics, digital microscopes, and other scientific instruments, all led by local MilliporeSigma experts.

While the main takeaway for most students is that science can be fun and interesting, the facilitators behind the Curiosity Cube hope to inspire underrepresented populations in STEM — like young women and students of color — to truly consider a career in the field.

(Something Mr. Jacob Hill would likely be very enthusiastic about.)

“Science industry experts agree that these hands-on experiences are critical to sparking student interest in STEM careers,” a webpage for the Curiosity Cube explains.

“Our science education outreach programs are modeled on the principles of inclusion and equity… We model this behavior as diverse leaders, and volunteers work directly with students in their own communities.”

In fact, the Curiosity Cube has been meeting students where they are since 2017, reaching over 200,000 students, ages 8-13, in 14 countries. 

“For 2024, the goal is to impact 45,000 students or more, prioritizing those in underserved and under-resourced communities,” the program’s website says. “In 2023, 95% of the schools that the Curiosity Cube visited identified as Title 1 schools, highlighting this commitment.”

The mobile lab just made a stop in Philadelphia earlier this week, engaging fourth graders at James Rhodes Elementary.

“It’s something we couldn’t afford,” principal Megan Wapner told ABC 6 Philadelphia . “We couldn’t do it without the support of this community and organizations like this.”

The students, who were eager to partake in the day’s experiments, left with some scientific souvenirs, like a pair of goggles, and a gardening kit, complete with a pot emblazoned with the “Abbott Elementary” logo.

Even at this one stop, it was clear that off-screen educators are as eager to reach their students as America’s beloved “Abbott” teachers, encouraging them to dream big. 

“When visitors enter the Curiosity Cube, they are scientists for the day, participating in hands-on science experiments and learning about new technologies,” the program’s website says.

“We want to inspire young students by showing them that scientists all over the world, who look just like them, are working to create a better tomorrow.”

Header images courtesy of Disney and MilliporeSigma

Article Details

14 Ideas for Celebrating Banned Books Week

How trauma-sensitive climate change education builds 'truthful hope'

Want to stay up-to-date on positive news.

The best email in your inbox. Filled with the day’s best good news.

• About Good Good Good
• Privacy Policy & Terms
• Take Action
• Subscriber Account
• Affiliate Program

Join the Good News Community

Accredited Certificate:

ADDITIONAL MENU

• Editorial Team
• Submit Your Manuscript
• Focus and Scope
• Author Guidelines
• Publication Ethics
• Open Access Policy
• Peer Review Process
• Article Processing Cost (APC)
• Visitor Statistics

Teknodika is indexed by:

Article Template

Plagiarsm Check

Journal Collaboration

Teknodika is in collaboration with:

P-ISSN (1693-9107)

E-ISSN (2656-6621)

• Other Journals
• For Readers
• For Authors
• For Librarians

Overcoming Misconceptions of Elementary School Students in Energy Materials and Their Changes Using the Colorado PhET Application

• There are currently no refbacks.

View My Stats

idnslot slot hoki turbox500 bri4d scatter biru scatter hitam akun pro jepang mpo77 turbox500 turbox1000 ninja cheat kucing oren hack bajak scatter robopragma demon vip cheat btn4d casino online robot merah hack