Science is a subject that most children either love or hate. But, it isn’t something your kids can just read about in a textbook. Instilling a love of science or even an understanding of basic principles requires some hands-on activities. And that means doing some science experiments.
Science experiments can provide some of the most fun and memorable times of your child’s homeschooling experience. Curious kids can’t resist the mysterious interactions that produce changing colors, foaming, and other fascinating outcomes. And parents tend to enjoy them, too.
6 Science Experiments for Your Curious Homeschooler
The good news is you don’t need to look much further than your kitchen or backyard to give your children a hands-on, exciting learning experience. Here are some excellent science experiments for curious kids to get you started.
1. Simple Heart Pump Model
Understanding how the human body works is an important part of your child’s education. Plus, it’s interesting and can spark a lifelong passion among some students. You and your child can create an Easy Heart Pump Model that shows how the human heart pumps blood.
2. Rain Cloud in a Jar
Want to teach your child about rain clouds and weather? This fun experiment creates clouds in a jar using shaving cream, food coloring, and water.
3. DIY Robotic Arm
If your child is interested in robotics, you can create a DIY robotic arm with items found around the house. The supplies you’ll need include:
- Cardboard
- Scissors
- Ruler
- String
- Hot glue gun & sticks
This is a simple introduction to robotics and mechanics that even gives your child an idea of how human systems work. Check out the full video tutorial here.
4. Make Plastic Toys from Milk
What child wouldn’t want to make their own toys? Using what you have around the house and in your refrigerator, these instructions guide you through the process of making plastic toys from milk.
5. Bicycle Centrifuge
Centrifuges are used to separate fluids and gases based on density. You would think a sophisticated piece of machinery is required to do this, but you can create a centrifuge at home – using a bicycle! This bicycle centrifuge experiment can help teach your child what a centrifuge is and how it works.
6. Baking Soda and Vinegar
Who didn’t make an erupting volcano as a kid using baking soda and vinegar? If you didn’t or have forgotten how, here are the instructions for this classic science experiment.
SCAIHS Helps Parents and Kids Move Beyond the Classroom
The South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools helps parents and their children move beyond the classroom with homeschooling guidance and resources. For over three decades, our organization has provided homeschooling assistance to families throughout the state, including academic programs, creative curriculums, online reporting, bookstore discounts, and much more. Contact us to learn more about the benefits of membership in our organization.