119+ Exciting Science Experiments for Kids: Young Explorers

Discover fun and easy science experiments for kids! Make mini volcanoes, colorful slime, and more. These safe activities are perfect for young learners. Let’s enjoy science together!

In this post, we’ll show you easy experiments that use things you already have. These activities are fun and help you learn about science, like how things react and how plants grow.

You can make mini volcanoes, colorful slime, and more! These experiments are safe and great for kids. So, put on your lab coat (or an apron) and let’s start!

Table of Contents

Science Experiments for Kids PDF

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Benefits of Science Experiments for Kids

Here are the benefits of science experiements for kids:

Benefit	Description
Makes Kids Curious	Kids want to ask questions and learn more.
Learn by Doing	Kids learn better when they try things out.
Solving Problems	Kids learn how to fix things when they go wrong.
Encourages Creativity	Kids can use their imagination.
Understand Science	Experiments help kids get science ideas.
Better Hand Skills	Kids improve their skills with their hands.
Teamwork	Kids learn to work together with others.
Builds Confidence	Kids feel proud when they finish an experiment.
Explore and Discover	Kids learn to look for new things.
Fun Learning	Science experiments make learning fun!

Science Experiments for Kids

Here are some of the best science experiments for kids:

Chemistry Experiments

Baking Soda and Vinegar Volcano

Materials: Baking soda, vinegar, container.

Steps:

Put baking soda in a container.
Pour vinegar over it and watch it bubble.
Discuss why it bubbles (a chemical reaction).

Magic Milk

Materials: Milk, food coloring, dish soap.

Steps:

Pour milk into a shallow dish.
Add drops of food coloring.
Dip a cotton swab in dish soap and touch the milk.
Watch the colors swirl!

Homemade Slime

Materials: Glue, baking soda, contact lens solution.

Steps:

Mix glue and baking soda in a bowl.
Add contact lens solution and stir until it becomes slime.
Discuss the properties of slime.

Crystal Growing

Materials: Sugar or salt, water, jar.

Steps:

Dissolve sugar or salt in hot water.
Pour into a jar and let it sit.
Observe crystals forming over time.

pH Indicator

Materials: Red cabbage, water, containers.

Steps:

Boil red cabbage in water to make an indicator.
Pour into different containers with substances (like lemon juice or baking soda).
Observe color changes to learn about pH.

Invisible Ink

Materials: Lemon juice, cotton swab, paper, heat source.

Steps:

Write with lemon juice on paper using a swab.
Let it dry.
Heat the paper to reveal the message.

Egg in a Bottle

Materials: Hard-boiled egg, bottle with a narrow opening, fire.

Steps:

Light a small piece of paper and drop it into the bottle.
Quickly place the egg on top.
Watch the egg get sucked into the bottle.

Color Changing Flowers

Materials: White flowers, food coloring, water.

Steps:

Add food coloring to water in a vase.
Place flowers in the water.
Observe how flowers change color over time.

Balloon Rocket

Materials: Balloon, string, straw, tape.

Steps:

Thread string through a straw and tie it tight.
Inflate a balloon, don’t tie it, and tape it to the straw.
Let go and watch it zoom!

Homemade Lava Lamp

Materials: Clear bottle, water, oil, food coloring, Alka-Seltzer.

Steps:

Fill a bottle with water and oil (they won’t mix).
Add food coloring.
Drop in Alka-Seltzer and watch bubbles rise.

Physics Experiments

Balloon Rocket

Materials: Balloon, string, straw, tape.

Steps:

Thread string through a straw and tie it tight.
Inflate a balloon, don’t tie it, and tape it to the straw.
Let go and watch it zoom!

Egg Drop Challenge

Materials: Egg, various materials (like cotton, straws).

Steps:

Create a design to protect an egg from a drop.
Drop it from a height.
See if it survives!

Homemade Compass

Materials: Needle, magnet, cork, water.

Steps:

Magnetize a needle by rubbing it with a magnet.
Float it on a cork in water.
See how it points north!

Swinging Pendulum

Materials: String, weight (like a washer), ruler.

Steps:

Tie a weight to the string and hang it.
Pull it to one side and let it go.
Observe how it swings back and forth.

Build a Simple Circuit

Materials: Battery, wire, light bulb.

Steps:

Connect the wire from the battery to the light bulb.
Complete the circuit and see the light turn on.
Discuss how electricity works.

Water Rocket

Materials: Plastic bottle, water, cork, bike pump.

Steps:

Fill a plastic bottle with a little water.
Cork the top and pump air into it.
Release and watch it fly!

Marbles and Gravity

Materials: Marbles, ramp (like a board).

Steps:

Create a ramp and roll marbles down.
Measure how far they go.
Discuss speed and gravity.

Sound Waves

Materials: Tuning forks, water.

Steps:

Strike a tuning fork and place it in water.
Observe the ripples.
Discuss how sound travels.

Paper Airplane Contest

Materials: Paper, tape measure.

Steps:

Make different paper airplane designs.
Test how far each one flies.
Discuss the aerodynamics involved.

Build a Bridge

Materials: Popsicle sticks, glue, weights.

Steps:

Build a bridge using popsicle sticks.
Test how much weight it can hold.
Discuss engineering principles.

Biology Experiments

Plant Growth

Materials: Seeds, soil, pots, water.

Steps:

Plant seeds in pots with soil.
Water them and observe daily.
Discuss what plants need to grow.

Homemade Terrarium

Materials: Jar, small plants, soil, decorations.

Steps:

Layer soil and plants in a jar.
Decorate and cover it.
Discuss ecosystems.

Butterfly Life Cycle

Materials: Caterpillars (or pictures), jar.

Steps:

Observe caterpillars as they grow.
Discuss the stages of metamorphosis.
Release them as butterflies.

DNA Model

Materials: Candy (like gumdrops), toothpicks.

Steps:

Use candy to build a DNA model.
Discuss the structure and function of DNA.
Learn about genetics.

Microscope Exploration

Materials: Microscope, slides, samples (like onion skin).

Steps:

Prepare slides with samples.
Observe under a microscope.
Discuss cells and their functions.

Human Body Model

Materials: Clay or playdough.

Steps:

Shape body parts using clay.
Label each part.
Discuss body systems.

Germs Experiment

Materials: Bread, ziplock bags, hands.

Steps:

Touch bread with dirty hands and seal it.
Leave it for a week and observe mold growth.
Discuss germs and hygiene.

Water Filtration

Materials: Sand, gravel, charcoal, container.

Steps:

Layer sand, gravel, and charcoal in a container.
Pour dirty water through it and observe.
Discuss water purification.

Heart Rate Experiment

Materials: Stopwatch, paper, pencil.

Steps:

Measure your heart rate at rest.
Do jumping jacks and measure again.
Discuss how exercise affects the heart.

Animal Adaptations

Materials: Pictures of animals, habitat examples.

Steps:

Show pictures of animals and discuss their adaptations.
Relate adaptations to their habitats.
Discuss survival.

Environmental Science Experiments

Recycling Project

Materials: Recyclable items (like paper, plastic).

Steps:

Sort items into recycling bins.
Discuss the importance of recycling.
Learn how recycling helps the environment.

Water Cycle in a Bag

Materials: Ziplock bag, water, permanent marker, tape.

Steps:

Fill a Ziplock bag with water and seal it.
Tape it to a sunny window.
Observe evaporation and condensation.

Soil Investigation

Materials: Soil samples, magnifying glass.

Steps:

Collect soil samples from different places.
Examine with a magnifying glass.
Discuss soil types and their importance.

Plant Transpiration

Materials: Potted plant, plastic bag, tape.

Steps:

Cover a leaf with a plastic bag.
Observe moisture inside the bag.
Discuss how plants lose water.

Solar Oven

Materials: Pizza box, plastic wrap, aluminum foil.

Steps:

Line the inside of the pizza box with foil.
Cover the opening with plastic wrap.
Place food inside and let the sun cook it.

Composting Experiment

Materials: Kitchen scraps, compost bin.

Steps:

Collect kitchen scraps in a compost bin.
Turn it regularly and observe decomposition.
Discuss the benefits of composting.

Air Quality Test

Materials: Jar, white paper, lid.

Steps:

Place white paper in a jar and seal it.
Leave it outside for a few days.
Check for dust and discuss air quality.

Food Chain Model

Materials: Pictures of animals and plants.

Steps:

Arrange pictures to create a food chain.
Discuss producers, consumers, and decomposers.
Learn how energy flows in an ecosystem.

Weather Observation

Materials: Notebook, thermometer, rain gauge.

Steps:

Record daily weather conditions.
Use tools to measure temperature and rainfall.
Discuss weather patterns.

Habitat Restoration

Materials: Native plants, garden space.

Steps:

Plant native plants in a garden.
Observe wildlife visiting.
Discuss the importance of native habitats.

Earth Science Experiments

Volcano Eruption

Materials: Baking soda, vinegar, container.

Steps:

Mix baking soda and vinegar in a container.
Watch the eruption.
Discuss volcanic eruptions.

Rock Cycle Model

Materials: Different types of rocks, poster board.

Steps:

Collect rocks and arrange them on a poster.
Explain how they change in the rock cycle.
Discuss igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks.

Cloud in a Jar

Materials: Jar, warm water, ice, aerosol spray.

Steps:

Fill a jar with warm water and cover it with ice.
Spray aerosol above it and see a cloud form.
Discuss cloud formation.

Homemade Seismograph

Materials: Box, paper, pencil, weights.

Steps:

Create a simple seismograph using a box and weights.
Shake the box and record the movements.
Discuss earthquakes.

Erosion Experiment

Materials: Soil, water, container.

Steps:

Pour water over soil in a container.
Observe how soil moves.
Discuss erosion and its effects.

Fossil Creation

Materials: Clay, small objects (like leaves).

Steps:

Press small objects into clay to make fossils.
Let it dry and remove the object.
Discuss how fossils are formed.

Soil Layers

Materials: Clear container, soil samples.

Steps:

Layer different soil samples in a clear container.
Observe the layers.
Discuss soil composition.

Weathering Experiment

Materials: Rocks, vinegar.

Steps:

Pour vinegar over rocks and observe.
Discuss how weathering breaks down rocks.

Magnetic Field Experiment

Materials: Magnet, iron filings, paper.

Steps:

Place a magnet under a sheet of paper.
Sprinkle iron filings on top.
Observe the magnetic field pattern.

Water Cycle Model

Materials: Clear plastic container, soil, water, plants.

Steps:

Create a mini ecosystem in a container.
Observe how water cycles through it.
Discuss the water cycle.

Mathematics Experiments

Measuring Angles

Materials: Protractor, paper, pencil.

Steps:

Draw different angles on paper.
Use a protractor to measure them.
Discuss angles and their types.

Pattern Recognition

Materials: Colored beads or blocks.

Steps:

Create patterns using beads or blocks.
Have others continue the pattern.
Discuss the importance of patterns in math.

Estimation Challenge

Materials: Various objects (like coins).

Steps:

Estimate how many objects are in a jar.
Count to check your estimate.
Discuss the concept of estimation.

Geometry Scavenger Hunt

Materials: Paper, pencil.

Steps:

Go outside and look for geometric shapes.
Draw or list what you find.
Discuss shapes in everyday life.

Graphing Data

Materials: Graph paper, data set (like heights of classmates).

Steps:

Collect data and create a graph.
Analyze the graph.
Discuss what the data shows.

Fraction Pizza

Materials: Paper plates, markers.

Steps:

Divide a paper plate into fractions.
Color each section differently.
Discuss fractions and their uses.

Time Measurement

Materials: Stopwatch, activities (like running).

Steps:

Time different activities and record them.
Analyze the times taken.
Discuss concepts of time and speed.

Probability Games

Materials: Dice or coins.

Steps:

Roll dice or flip coins.
Record results and analyze.
Discuss probability concepts.

Symmetry Art

Materials: Paper, paint.

Steps:

Create art using symmetry (fold paper and paint).
Unfold to see the design.
Discuss symmetry in math and nature.

Money Management

Materials: Play money, shopping list.

Steps:

Create a shopping list with prices.
Use play money to “buy” items.
Discuss budgeting and money concepts.

Technology Experiments

Simple Coding

Materials: Computer, coding software (like Scratch).

Steps:

Create a simple animation or game.
Experiment with different code blocks.
Discuss the basics of coding.

Building a Website

Materials: Computer, website builder (like WordPress).

Steps:

Use a website builder to create a simple site.
Add text and images.
Discuss website design principles.

Robotics Challenge

Materials: Simple robot kit.

Steps:

Build a basic robot following instructions.
Program it to move or perform tasks.
Discuss how robots work.

Create a Video

Materials: Smartphone or camera, editing software.

Steps:

Plan and film a short video.
Edit it using software.
Discuss storytelling through video.

Virtual Reality Experience

Materials: VR headset (if available), VR apps.

Steps:

Explore different VR experiences.
Discuss how VR changes learning.
Share thoughts on the technology.

App Development

Materials: Computer, app-building software.

Steps:

Use software to design a simple app.
Include basic features and functions.
Discuss what makes an app useful.

Digital Art Creation

Materials: Tablet or computer, art software.

Steps:

Create a piece of digital art.
Experiment with different tools and styles.
Discuss the digital art process.

3D Printing Project

Materials: 3D printer, design software.

Steps:

Design a simple object using software.
Print the object.
Discuss 3D printing applications.

Video Game Design

Materials: Computer, game development software.

Steps:

Create a simple video game.
Test it and make adjustments.
Discuss game mechanics.

Cybersecurity Awareness

Materials: Internet access, resources.

Steps:

Research online safety tips.
Create a poster with tips.
Discuss the importance of cybersecurity.

History Experiments

Time Capsule

Materials: Box, items to include.

Steps:

Collect items that represent today.
Place them in a box and seal it.
Discuss what future generations might think.

Historical Figure Research

Materials: Books or internet access.

Steps:

Choose a historical figure to research.
Present findings to the class.
Discuss the impact of their actions.

Create a Timeline

Materials: Paper, markers.

Steps:

List important events in history.
Arrange them in chronological order.
Discuss how events are connected.

Artifacts Investigation

Materials: Old items, magnifying glass.

Steps:

Collect old items to examine.
Discuss their historical significance.
Present findings to the class.

Reenact a Historical Event

Materials: Costumes, scripts.

Steps:

Choose a historical event to reenact.
Prepare scripts and costumes.
Perform for the class and discuss.

Map Exploration

Materials: Maps, markers.

Steps:

Study maps of different time periods.
Mark important locations.
Discuss how geography affected history.

History Documentary

Materials: Video recording device, editing software.

Steps:

Create a short documentary about a historical topic.
Research and script the content.
Discuss the process and findings.

Family History Project

Materials: Family records, interview questions.

Steps:

Interview family members about their history.
Document findings in a report.
Discuss how personal history connects to larger events.

Create a Museum Exhibit

Materials: Artifacts or representations of artifacts.

Steps:

Choose a historical topic for the exhibit.
Create displays using artifacts.
Present the exhibit to the class.

Historical Debate

Materials: Research materials.

Steps:

Choose a historical topic for debate.
Research both sides of the issue.
Hold a debate and discuss perspectives.

Art Experiments

Color Mixing

Materials: Paints, brushes, paper.

Steps:

Mix primary colors to create new colors.
Experiment with different combinations.
Discuss color theory.

Texture Exploration

Materials: Different materials (like fabric, paper).

Steps:

Create a collage using various textures.
Discuss how texture adds depth to art.

Shadow Drawing

Materials: Paper, objects for casting shadows.

Steps:

Place objects under a light source.
Trace the shadows on paper.
Discuss light and shadow in art.

Nature Art

Materials: Leaves, flowers, paper.

Steps:

Collect natural materials for art.
Create artwork using these materials.
Discuss nature’s role in art.

Sculpture Creation

Materials: Clay or playdough.

Steps:

Create a sculpture using clay.
Share the inspiration behind the sculpture.
Discuss sculpture techniques.

Printmaking

Materials: Styrofoam, paint, paper.

Steps:

Carve a design into Styrofoam.
Apply paint and press onto paper.
Discuss the printmaking process.

Collaborative Mural

Materials: Large paper or canvas, paints.

Steps:

Work together to create a mural.
Each person adds their own element.
Discuss teamwork in art.

Digital Art Exploration

Materials: Computer or tablet, art software.

Steps:

Create digital art using software.
Experiment with different tools.
Discuss digital versus traditional art.

Art from Recyclables

Materials: Recyclable materials (bottles, boxes).

Steps:

Create art using recyclable materials.
Discuss sustainability in art.

Artist Study

Materials: Art books or internet access.

Steps:

Research a famous artist.
Present their style and techniques.
Discuss their impact on art.

Health Science Experiments

Healthy Plate Project

Materials: Paper plates, food magazines.

Steps:

Cut out pictures of healthy foods.
Create a healthy plate using the cutouts.
Discuss nutrition and balanced meals.

Exercise Experiment

Materials: Stopwatch, activities.

Steps:

Choose different exercises to try.
Time each exercise and record results.
Discuss the benefits of exercise.

Stress Relief Techniques

Materials: Relaxation tools (like a stress ball).

Steps:

Try different stress relief techniques.
Discuss which methods work best.
Share experiences with the class.

Senses Exploration

Materials: Various objects (for touch, smell, etc.).

Steps:

Explore different senses with objects.
Discuss how each sense affects us.
Present findings to the class.

Water Quality Test

Materials: Water samples, testing kit.

Steps:

Test water samples for quality.
Record and analyze results.
Discuss the importance of clean water.

Sleep Study

Materials: Sleep diary, timer.

Steps:

Keep a diary of sleep patterns for a week.
Discuss how sleep affects health.
Share findings with the class.

Nutrition Label Analysis

Materials: Food labels, paper.

Steps:

Analyze nutrition labels from various foods.
Compare their nutritional values.
Discuss healthy choices.

Hygiene Experiment

Materials: Soap, water, germs (like glitter).

Steps:

Use glitter to represent germs.
Wash hands and observe effectiveness.
Discuss the importance of hygiene.

Heart Rate Experiment

Materials: Stopwatch, activity log.

Steps:

Measure heart rate before and after exercise.
Record results and analyze.
Discuss how exercise affects heart rate.

Healthy Habits Chart

Materials: Chart paper, markers.

Steps:

Create a chart of healthy habits.
Track progress over a week.
Discuss the importance of healthy routines.

Language Arts Experiments

Storytelling Circle

Materials: None.

Steps:

Sit in a circle and tell a story.
Each person adds a sentence.
Discuss the story’s themes.

Poem Creation

Materials: Paper, pens.

Steps:

Write a poem on a chosen topic.
Share with the class.
Discuss different poetic styles.

Book Review

Materials: Favorite book.

Steps:

Write a review of a favorite book.
Present it to the class.
Discuss why it’s meaningful.

Word Games

Materials: Paper, markers.

Steps:

Create word search or crossword puzzles.
Share with classmates.
Discuss vocabulary building.

Character Analysis

Materials: Favorite book or movie.

Steps:

Choose a character to analyze.
Discuss their traits and growth.
Share insights with the class.

Creative Writing

Materials: Paper, writing tools.

Steps:

Write a short story or essay.
Share with the class.
Discuss writing techniques.

Vocabulary Building

Materials: Word lists.

Steps:

Learn new words from a list.
Use them in sentences.
Discuss their meanings.

Read-Aloud Session

Materials: A book.

Steps:

Choose a book to read aloud.
Discuss the story and characters.
Share favorite parts.

Writing Letters

Materials: Paper, pens.

Steps:

Write a letter to a friend or family member.
Discuss the importance of communication.
Share letters with the class.

Book Cover Design

Materials: Paper, markers.

Steps:

Design a new cover for a favorite book.
Present the design and rationale.
Discuss elements of good design.

Environmental Science Experiments

Mini Garden Project

Materials: Seeds, soil, containers.

Steps:

Plant seeds in containers.
Observe and record growth.
Discuss plant care.

Water Cycle Model

Materials: Clear container, water, plastic wrap.

Steps:

Create a mini water cycle in a container.
Observe condensation and evaporation.
Discuss the water cycle’s importance.

Pollution Awareness Campaign

Materials: Poster board, markers.

Steps:

Create a poster about pollution.
Present to classmates.
Discuss solutions to reduce pollution.

Recycling Challenge

Materials: Recyclable materials.

Steps:

Gather recyclable materials.
Create a project from them.
Discuss the importance of recycling.

Ecosystem Exploration

Materials: Nature field trip.

Steps:

Explore a local ecosystem.
Observe plants and animals.
Discuss interdependence in ecosystems.

Air Quality Investigation

Materials: Air quality testing kit.

Steps:

Test air quality in different locations.
Record and analyze results.
Discuss air quality’s impact on health.

Energy Conservation Project

Materials: Energy use chart.

Steps:

Track energy use at home.
Identify ways to save energy.
Present findings to the class.

Wildlife Habitat Creation

Materials: Birdhouse or feeders.

Steps:

Create a habitat for local wildlife.
Observe wildlife interactions.
Discuss the importance of habitats.

Composting Experiment

Materials: Compost bin, organic waste.

Steps:

Start a compost bin.
Observe the decomposition process.
Discuss composting benefits.

Climate Change Research

Materials: Internet access, research materials.

Steps:

Research climate change effects.
Present findings to the class.
Discuss solutions to combat climate change.

Safety First!

Here are some safety tips:

Safety Tip	Description
Ask an Adult	Get help from a parent or teacher before starting.
Wear Safety Gear	Use goggles for your eyes and an apron to keep clothes clean.
Keep It Clean	Clear your table to avoid messes and accidents.
Use Tools Carefully	Be careful with scissors or anything sharp.
No Eating or Drinking	Don’t eat or drink while doing experiments.
Follow Instructions	Read the steps and do what they say.
Be Careful with Chemicals	Only use safe things, and ask an adult if you’re not sure.
Stay Focused	Pay attention to what you’re doing to stay safe.
Wash Your Hands	Always wash your hands when you finish.
Have Fun Safely	Enjoy your experiments while being safe!

Remember, safety comes first in science!

Tips for Success

Here are the tips for success:

Tip	Description
Pick Fun Experiments	Choose experiments that sound fun to you.
Read First	Look at the instructions and gather your stuff before starting.
Take Your Time	Don’t rush! Do each step slowly and carefully.
Ask Questions	If you’re confused, ask an adult or a friend for help.
Keep Notes	Write down what you do and what happens. It helps you remember.
Be Patient	Some experiments need time. Wait for the results.
Try Again	If it doesn’t work, don’t give up! Try it again or change something.
Share Your Findings	Tell family and friends about your experiments and what you learned.
Stay Safe	Remember to follow all safety rules.
Have Fun!	Enjoy exploring and learning new things!

These tips will help you do well in your science experiments!

Science Experiments for Kids at School

Here are some science experiments for kids at school:

Experiment	Description
Baking Soda Volcano	Mix baking soda and vinegar to make a fizzy explosion.
Magic Milk	Drop food coloring in milk, then add dish soap to see colorful swirls.
Invisible Ink	Write a message with lemon juice, then heat the paper to see it appear.
Floating Eggs	Add salt to water and see if an egg floats.
Homemade Slime	Mix glue, baking soda, and contact lens solution to make stretchy slime.
Weather in a Jar	Use shaving cream and colored water in a jar to create clouds.
DIY Compass	Magnetize a needle and float it on water to find north.
Plant Growth Experiment	Grow seeds in light and dark to see which grows better.
Colorful Celery	Put celery in colored water to show how plants drink.
Balloon Rocket	Tape a balloon to a straw on a string and watch it zoom!

Conclusion

Science experiments for kids are a fun way to learn! They help kids explore how things work and ask questions. Each experiment teaches something new, like how plants grow or how reactions happen.

Doing experiments can help kids:

Learn New Things: Simple activities show cool science concepts.
Build Skills: Kids learn to think, solve problems, and notice details.
Work Together: Many experiments are more fun with friends.
Feel Proud: Finishing an experiment makes kids feel good about what they can do.

Always remember to be safe and ask an adult for help if needed.

So, gather your materials, pick an experiment, and start having fun! Enjoy learning with science, and remember that every experiment is a chance to discover something new. Happy experimenting!

Adam Tesla

Adam Tesla is a creative thinker with 5 years of experience in providing unique and engaging project ideas across various categories and niches. His expertise lies in simplifying complex topics and presenting fresh, innovative concepts that inspire students, professionals, and entrepreneurs.