Education Corner

40 Fun & Easy Preschool Science Experiments

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Welcome to our collection of fun and easy science experiments, especially handpicked for our tiniest tinkerers and budding scientists. These experiments provide a safe and engaging environment for children to observe, question, and discover.

Activities on this list aren’t about complex theories or lengthy explanations; they’re about the joy of discovery, the magic of “why,” and the thrill of the “aha!” moment.

In the age of preschool kids, curiosity knows no bounds. Every raindrop is a mystery, every shadow a playful game, and every bubble a burst of joy. At this tender age, the line between magic and science is delightfully blurred, making it the perfect time to embark on whimsical experiments that tickle the imagination while fostering a foundational love for the wonders of the world.

Guided by experienced educators, each experiment is thoughtfully crafted to ensure age-appropriate materials, simple instructions, and plenty of opportunities for hands-on exploration.

1. Floating Dry Erase Rainbow and Shapes Experiment  

Floating Dry Erase Rainbow and Shapes Experiment  

The Floating Dry Erase Rainbow and Shapes Experiment is a captivating preschool science activity that engages young minds while introducing fundamental concepts of buoyancy and color mixing.

Learn more: Team Cartwright

2. The Oil and Water Experiment- Density Science

The Oil and Water Experiment- Density Science

By combining oil and water in a clear container, students observe the distinct separation between the two substances due to their different densities.

Learn more: Play Trains

3. Make Ice Grow

Make Ice Grow

This experiment sparks curiosity and wonder and teaches children about the states of matter and the scientific principle of freezing.

Learn more: Teach Preschool Org

4. Ice Cream in a Bag

Ice Cream in a Bag

The “Ice Cream in a Bag” experiment is a delightful preschool science activity combining hands-on fun and a tasty treat.

Learn more: Ice Cream in a Bag

5. Magic Milk

Magic Milk

The “Magic Milk” experiment with fizzing milk is a captivating preschool science activity that combines chemistry and visual spectacle.

Learn more: Magic Milk

6. Walking on Raw Eggs

Walking on Raw Eggs

By placing raw eggs in a row on the ground and carefully stepping on them, students discover that the eggs can withstand their weight without breaking.

This experiment not only sparks excitement and awe but also encourages children to question and investigate the strength and structure of objects.

Learn more: Housing a Forest

7. Unicorn Fizz 

Unicorn Fizz 

The “Unicorn Fizz” experiment is a delightful preschool science activity that brings together a sense of wonder and the magic of unicorns.

Learn more: Unicorn Fizz 

8. Unpoppable Bubbles

Unpoppable Bubbles

This hands-on and interactive activity encourages exploration, experimentation, and a sense of achievement when bubbles refuse to burst, making it a must-try for young scientists ready to challenge the laws of bubble physics.

Learn more: Unpoppable Balloons

9. Melting Ice

Melting Ice

It’s a simple yet engaging activity that lays the foundation for understanding the principles of thermodynamics and encourages scientific inquiry, making it an ideal experiment for young learners eager to explore the wonders of science.

Learn more: Melting Ice

10. Exploring How Water Travels Through Leaves

Exploring How Water Travels Through Leaves

The “Exploring How Water Travels Through Leaves” experiment is an exciting preschool science activity that allows children to discover the wonders of plant biology.

Learn more: Buggy and Buddy

11. Pepper and Soap

Pepper and Soap

By sprinkling pepper onto a bowl of water and then gently touching the surface with a soapy finger, students witness the mesmerizing movement of pepper particles as they scatter away from the soap.

Learn more: Pepper and Soap

12. Rain Cloud in a Jar

This hands-on activity encourages observation, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of weather phenomena, making it an exciting and educational experience for young learners eager to explore the science behind rain.

13. Making Color Disappear

Making Color Disappear

The “Making Color Disappear” experiment is a captivating preschool science activity that introduces children to the magical world of color mixing.

Learn more: Making Color Disappear

14. Elephant Toothpaste

Elephant Toothpaste

This hands-on and engaging activity fosters scientific inquiry, observation, and a sense of wonder, making it a must-try for young scientists eager to explore the fascinating world of chemistry.

Learn more: Elephant Toothpaste

15. Play Dough Volcano

Play Dough Volcano

This is a sensory and interactive activity that encourages exploration, observation, and scientific inquiry, making it a must-try for young scientists eager to unleash their inner volcanologists and have a blast while learning about the wonders of the natural world.

Learn more: Play Dough Volcano

16. Skittles Rainbow

Skittles Rainbow

By arranging a circle of colorful Skittles candies on a plate and adding a small amount of warm water, students can observe as the colors dissolve and blend together, creating a beautiful rainbow pattern.

Learn more: Skittles Rainbow

17. Rainbow Tower

By layering different liquids of varying densities, such as water, oil, and colored syrup, students can create a stunning rainbow tower in a clear container.

18. Balloon-Powered Car

By constructing a simple car out of everyday materials and attaching a balloon as the power source, students can witness the car zooming forward as the air escapes from the balloon.

19. Wind-Powered Car

By constructing a simple car using lightweight materials and attaching a small sail, students can observe how the wind propels the car forward.

20. Travelling Waters

The “Travelling Waters” experiment is a captivating preschool science activity that explores the concept of water absorption and movement.

21. Leak-proof Bag

 Leak-proof Bag

Get ready to discover the wonders of a leak-proof bag experiment! This engaging pre-school science activity is a must-try for young explorers

Learn more: Leak-proof Bag

22. Magnetic Discovery Bottles

Magnetic Discovery Bottles

By filling transparent bottles with a combination of water, glitter, and an array of magnetic objects, children can witness the mesmerizing dance of magnetic forces.

Learn more: Magnetic Discovery Bottles

23. Water Xylophone

As they experiment with water levels and observe the corresponding changes in pitch, they’ll develop a deeper understanding of sound and vibrations.

24. Balloon Rocket Science

This hands-on activity not only sparks excitement but also introduces basic physics concepts in a playful and interactive manner.

25. LEGO Ice Excavation

LEGO Ice Excavation

Get ready to embark on a cool and captivating journey with LEGO ice excavation! This thrilling preschool science experiment is a must-try for young adventurers.

Learn more: LEGO Ice Excavation

26. Edible Butterfly Life Cycle

Edible Butterfly Life Cycle

As they assemble and devour their edible creations, children will gain a deeper understanding of the miraculous transformation that butterflies undergo.

Learn more: Little Bins Little Hands

27. Penny Boat

Penny Boat

As they experiment with different shapes and sizes, they’ll learn about buoyancy, weight distribution, and the principles of floating.

28. Salt Painting

Salt Painting

Get ready to unleash your creativity with salt painting! This exciting pre-school art activity is a must-try for young artists. By using a mixture of salt, watercolors, and paper, children can create stunning and textured paintings.

Learn more: Salt Painting

29. String Telephone

String Telephone

This hands-on activity not only sparks imagination but also introduces the concept of sound transmission and vibrations.

Learn more: String Telephone

30. DIY Straw Rockets

DIY Straw Rockets

Get ready for an exciting DIY adventure with straw rockets! This thrilling preschool science experiment is a must-try for young rocket scientists.

Learn more: DIY Straw Rocket

31. Dancing Corn

Dancing Corn

Through this simple yet enchanting experience, children will grasp the concept of air pressure and buoyancy in a fun-filled manner.

32. Egg Drop Challenge

Egg Drop Challenge

The Egg Drop Challenge not only sparks enthusiasm for science but also nurtures teamwork and perseverance in little ones.

Learn more: Egg Drop Challenge

33. Rubber Egg (Egg in Vinegar)

Rubber Egg (Egg in Vinegar)

Welcome to the fascinating world of the “Rubber Egg” experiment, where curious young minds will witness the extraordinary transformation of a regular egg into a bouncy, rubbery wonder!

34. LEGO Zipline

LEGO Zipline

By constructing a simple zipline using LEGO bricks and a string, children get hands-on experience with the principles of gravity, motion, and engineering.

Learn more: LEGO Zipline

35. Blow Cup Challenge

Blow Cup Challenge

The Blow Cup Challenge is a delightful and captivating preschool science experiment that will leave young learners amazed and eager to explore.

By blowing air into the cup, they witness the fantastic force of air pressure propelling the rocket upwards.

Learn more: Erintegration

36. How Strong Is the Spaghetti?

How Strong Is the Spaghetti?

Through hands-on experimentation, they discover the principles of balance, stability, and load-bearing capacities.

This experiment not only encourages creativity and problem-solving but also introduces early engineering concepts in an engaging and approachable manner.

Learn more: Frugalfun4boys

37. Simple Static Electricity Experiment

The Simple Static Electricity Experiment offers an electrifying experience for preschoolers that sparks curiosity and wonder.

In this captivating activity, children explore the fascinating world of static electricity by rubbing balloons against different materials and observing the surprising effects.

38. Sedimentary Rocks Model

Sedimentary Rocks Model

The Sedimentary Rocks Model offers an immersive and educational preschool science experiment that takes young learners on a fascinating geological adventure. In this hands-on activity, children get to create their own sedimentary rock models.

Learn more: Preschool Powol Pockets

39. Layers of the Earth

Layers of the Earth

Through hands-on exploration, children will create a simplified Earth model using different materials to represent its layers: the crust, mantle, and core.

By understanding the composition of our planet, they’ll gain insight into the forces that shape the Earth’s surface and its interior.

Learn more: Red Ted Art

40. LEGO Pendulum Painting

LEGO Pendulum Painting

By experimenting with different string lengths, weights, and paint colors, they discover how the motion of the pendulum influences the patterns it creates.

Learn more: LEGO Pendulum

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science experiments preschool

30 Amazing Science Activities for Preschoolers

From science experiments to sensory explorations to STEM and STEAM activities, these science activities for preschoolers are sure to be a hit!

So many fun science activities for preschoolers. Everything from science experiments to STEM and STEAM explorations and more! These preschool science activities are sure to be a blast!

Science Experiments for Preschoolers

If you are looking for simple science experiments and activities to do with preschoolers, then this list is perfect for you.

Your kids are sure to have a blast exploring science!

My kids love science investigations so I am making a point of doing more of them. To get myself started, I decided create a collection of my favorite science activities.

Since I know many of you are also looking for science experiments and activities to do with preschoolers, I decided to share them here for you too.

If you are looking for science activities for preschoolers, this is going to be a HUGE help to you.

Top 30 Science Activities for Preschoolers

So many fun science experiments and activities for preschoolers and young kids!

Lava Lamp Experiment

This lava lamp experiment is a HUGE hit with kids. It is one of our most popular science activities. I bet your kids will enjoy it too!

Leak-Proof Bag Science Experiment

Want to really WOW your kids? Try out this leak-proof bag science experiment . It’s like a magic trick, but it’s really science!

Make a Rain Cloud in a Jar

Make a rain cloud in a jar and develop fine motor skills too! This science activity allows young children to explore and investigate what happens when it rains.

Oil and Water Science Exploration

This oil and water science exploration is a fun and colorful way to observe how oil and water don’t mix together.

Skittles rainbow science activity.

Fun and Colorful Skittles Rainbow Experiment

Grab some Skittles and water and make a Skittles rainbow for a fun and colorful surprise!

science experiments preschool

Magic Milk Experiment

Kids will be amazed by this Magic Milk Science Experiment !

Best Science Activities for Preschoolers Collage

Clouds and Rain Science Investigation

Explore clouds and rain with a simple science investigation that will totally engage young kids.

Color Changing Flowers Experiment

Dye flowers a variety of colors with this Color Changing Flowers Experiment .

Rust Resistant Magnetic Discovery Bottle

This Rust Resistant Magnetic Discovery Bottle  is a super cool way to explore magnetism.

Explore Colors with fun Chemical Reactions

This science activity encourages kids to explore colors with chemical reactions . It’s also a great way to develop fine motor skills.

Science exploration activities for young kids.

Fun Weather Activity

This weather activity  combines a popular book and a classic experiment to introduce kids to tornadoes.

Learn about Animal Habitats

Teach kids about animal habitats while Sorting Animals on a Venn Diagram . It’s really easy to set up and even toddlers can participate.

Walking Water Science Experiment

This awesome Walking Water Science Experiment  will wow kids all of ages!

Learn about Water Density

Make a Rainbow Jar  and introduce young children to density. It’s really neat.

Dancing raisins experiment.

Dancing Raisins are a Blast

The kids will get a kick out of this super cool dancing raisins science experiment !

Science experiments and activities for toddlers and preschoolers.

Water Xylophone Fun

This Water Xylophone Science Experiment  combines music and science. It’s easy enough for your kids to make too.

Dancing Rice Investigation

Amaze your kids with Dancing Rice ! This baking soda and vinegar investigation is very intriguing.

Shaving Cream Clouds

These shaving cream clouds are so gorgeous! I can’t wait to do this one!

Inflate a Balloon with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Did you know that you can inflate a balloon with baking soda and vinegar ? You have to try this one!

Learning science is so much fun with these hands-on activities.

Solar System Scavenger Hunt

My kids absolutely love this Solar System Scavenger Hunt ! It’s a fun way to introduce preschoolers to the solar system and planets within it.

More Lava Lamp Fun

Your kids will love this super cool Lava Lamp Science Experiment .

Zones of the Ocean Sensory Bottle

Introduce preschoolers to the Zones of the Ocean  with these engaging sensory bottles!

Make a Pully to learn about Machines

Make a pulley and teach kids about simple machines with this activity that will have kids moving and learning!

Growing Plants Science Activity

This Growing Plants Science Activity  is a fantastic way to teach kids about plants! It even includes a observation sheet that is easy enough for preschoolers to use. (not pictured)

These hands-on science inquiry activities are perfect for preschoolers and young elementary students.

Explore Ramps and Friction

Explore ramps and friction with this super simple science activity for kids!

Ocean in a Bottle

This ocean in a bottle looks amazing! It is a great way to explore oil and water.

Dinosaur Excavation Activity

Did you know you can make your own dinosaur excavation activity and only use two simple ingredients that you probably have in your house? It’s really cool!

Static Electricity Butterfly Experiment

This static electricity butterfly experiment is so neat. It’s very easy to make and you’ll be surprised by how long this will occupy your kids.

Fun Preschool Science Activities

Science discovery for young children

Baking Soda and Vinegar Reactions

My kids absolutely love baking soda and vinegar reactions ! This post will tell you how to get really amazing reactions.

Explore what Melts

Explore what melts in the sun with this fun science experiment. It’s perfect for a warm, sunny day.

Water Cycle in a Bag

Teach kids about the water cycle with this Water Cycle in a Bag ! It’s perfect for young children.

Lego Volcano

Kids will have a blast building a LEGO Volcano and watching it erupt.

Oobleck Science Experiment

Oobleck Recipe

This oobleck recipe is a fun and easy science activity for kids! You just need 2 ingredients and your kids will be ready for lots of fun sensory play!

Keep Paper Dry under Water

Our kids loved this simple keep paper dry under water science experiment. They were amazed when the paper didn’t even get wet!

Grow a rainbow science experiment for kids.

Grow a Rainbow Science Experiment

This Grow a Rainbow science experiment was a blast! It is a simple way for young kids to learn about capillary action!

Catapult STEM Activity

This catapult activity is a fun and easy STEM activity that your kids will love!

Fireworks in a Jar

Your kids will love seeing the Fireworks in a Jar reactions in this easy experiment!

Floating Dry Erase Marker

This  floating dry erase marker  science activity is easy and fun! You just need dry erase markers and water!

Dancing Corn Science Activity

This dancing corn science activity  is quick to setup and you just need a few ingredients you can find around your house.

Science activities that your preschoolers will love!

Preschool Inspirations

Preschool Activities and Learning

30+ Simple and Fun Preschool Science Activities

July 13, 2020 by Lauren Vaughan Leave a Comment

These preschool science activities are sure to be a big hit with little learners and perfect for encouraging budding scientists. Preschoolers are curious and inquisitive little learners which means they are always game for a great science experiment!

collage of 5 preschoolers each doing a science activity with the text preschool science activities easy and fun

Science is a magical thing. It is best enjoyed when it is child-led and hands-on, which is pretty essential when working with preschoolers! Preschoolers love to be involved, even in the simplest ways. Incorporating science activities from a young age helps children learn that failure is part of the process and it’s perfectly ok. When you do get it right, especially after many tries, it is all the more incredible! We sure hope these preschool science activities help your preschoolers learn to love science and all the magic that lies within.

Preschool Science Activities

Simple science preschool activities.

These simple science activities include common household items and easy preparation so that you can get to experimenting that much faster!

Baking Soda and Vinegar Volcano Eruption by Preschool Inspirations – This super simple but oh so amazing science experiment for kids is easy to prep and has a real wow factor for your preschoolers!

Vinegar and Baking Soda Science by Preschool Inspirations – Do you know there are SO many ways you can use baking soda and vinegar for really engaging science experiments? Everything from exploding bags to rockets and even blowing up balloons! It can get messy but it’s a kid favorite.

Ice Cube Melt Science Experiment by Preschool Inspirations – This child-led science experiment is perfect for an easy prep activity that is full of wonder and scientific predictions. Will each ice cube melt at the same rate? Only one way to find out!

Magic Pepper and Soap Science by Fun Learning For Kids – Using only ingredients found in your kitchen, this magical science activity will have your preschooler wanting to do it over and over again! This is also the perfect experiment for discussing the importance of clean hands and how soap works.

Oil and Water Science Experiment by Play to Learn Preschool – This simple sink or float experiment will raise all sorts of questions about the world we live in. What sinks? What floats? And most importantly…why do some things float and some things sink? Get those little brains questioning with this activity!

Dirty Pennies Science Experiment by Play to Learn Preschool – Preschoolers love to help! With this fun experiment, they get to help solve the problem of dirty pennies while secretly learning a little bit about chemistry. They will be mesmerized that they made these dirty old pennies look shiny and new again!

Floating Egg Science Experiment by Fantastic Fun and Learning – With a little salt and a couple of eggs, your preschoolers will love this lesson on density and buoyancy. It’s an easy and “egg-cellent” way to get your preschooler interested in science.

collage of images of the 7 preschool science activities described above

Colors & Rainbows Science Preschool Activities

Learning your colors has never been so fun! These colorful science activities will help your preschooler learn every shade of the rainbow…and then some!

Super Fun Rainbow Science by Preschool Inspirations – This mega list of rainbow science activities will make your little one a self-proclaimed rainbow expert! From rainbow discovery bottles to rainbow slime and everything in between, these activities are super science fun.

Fizzing Rainbow Activity by Teaching Mama – This fizzy science project ties in a lovely children’s book with an important message about love and acceptance. Read the book together and make your very own colorful fizzing rainbow!

Color Mixing Activity by Teaching Mama – Mixing colors is a blast… especially when you get to use shaving cream and colored water! This activity is so mesmerizing and simply magical to preschoolers. Who knew science could be this fun?

Rainbow Walking Water by Fun Learning For Kids – The colors of the rainbow defy gravity in this exciting experiment! Using simple materials, this magical activity is perfect for learning colors and how mixing two colors results in a new hue.

Freezable Color Goop by BabbleDabbleDo – This strange and slimy goop turned frozen is the coolest STEM experience ever! You can do anything with it (art, mix colors, mix with water, watch it melt, etc…) and the texture is unlike anything you have felt before. This activity is a big hit with kids of all ages!

Jello and Vinegar Science Experiment by Fun-A-Day – Easy and colorful, this science experiment is perfect for learning the colors of the rainbow or mixing colors! Plus, it’s far less messy than traditional food coloring so it’s a win-win!

collage of 6 images of the rainbow science activities described

Seasonal Science Preschool Activities

These seasonal science activities are perfect for celebrating the unique characteristics of each season, with a science lens!

Preschool Science Activities for Fall 

Fall Science Activities by Preschool Inspirations – This super list of fall science fun is full of pumpkins, apples, and leaf wonder! Explore acorns and pumpkin volcanos and get hands-on with preschool fall favorites.

Magic Pumpkin Science by Playdough to Plato – With just a few pieces of candy and some warm water, your preschoolers will be mesmerized as they watch the colored candies melt into the shape of a pumpkin!

The Texture of Fall by Teach Preschool – Leaf rubbing is so cool and highlights the beauty and characteristics of leaves. Using aluminum foil and your hands, children will love rubbing the leaves to show the veins and shape of their fall leaf.

Dancing Frankenworms by Playdough to Plato – This clever experiment is fun for the eyes…and the tummy! Watch these ordinary gummy worms dance mysteriously using just a few household ingredients.

Fall Flower Water Science by Teach Preschool – Using just water and flowers, explore the beauty of fall colors and the magic of exploration! Quick and simple to set up, it’s perfect hands-on science fun.

Preschool Science Activities for Winter

Colored Candy Canes Science Experiment by Preschool Inspirations – The perfect science activity for using up those holiday candy canes and the best part is, there is zero prep!

Candy Heart Fizzing Science Experiment by Preschool Inspirations – Candy experiments are always a big hit with preschoolers and this one is no different. Use some colorful conversation hearts and watch those colors fizz right into the bubble magic!

Blizzard Lava Lamp by Fun Learning For Kids – Bring a snowy blizzard indoors with this amazing experiment! Your preschoolers will be absolutely mesmerized by this activity because it really does look just like snow trapped in a bottle. Enjoy this science fun on a cold winter day!

Growing a Crystal Tree by Playdough to Plato – A truly unique science experiment that will have the kids talking about it for a long time. Growing crystals on a cardboard tree requires one special ingredient but it is truly worth the effort. The results speak for themselves!

Snowman in a Bag by Teach Preschool –  If you live in an area where it snows, this science activity is so fun! Your preschoolers will explore the science behind how snow melts and get to experience their snowman from ice to water!

Preschool Science Activities for Spring

Pine Cone Bird Feeders by Preschool Inspirations – After a long winter, this science activity is perfect for getting out and exploring nature. Your preschoolers will love welcoming the birds with a yummy treat!

Little Sprout House by Playdough to Plato – This little sprout house is perfect for budding gardeners and plant enthusiasts. Help your preschoolers visualize how plants grow from seeds and what that process looks like with this easy planting activity.

Whirly Twirly Flying Birds by Left Brain Craft Brain – Utilizing some engineering trial and error, your preschoolers will love making a bird that can take flight! They will be begging you to do it over and over again, so make sure you have plenty of balloons available.

Sink and Float Peeps by Playdough to Plato – These adorable marshmallow birds are a sign of spring but little did you know… they are perfect for science learning! Do peeps sink or do they float? Can they sink AND float? Find out with this 2 ingredient experiment!

Jelly Bean Science Experiment by Fantastic Fun and Learning – Perfect for springtime, this jellybean experiment will have your preschoolers making predictions and carefully observing their jellybeans in various liquids. What liquids will your preschooler test? How will the jellybeans react?

Explore the Science Behind Clouds by Teach Preschool – Make your own little rainclouds using cotton balls and a little food coloring. A perfect introduction to a weather or rain theme!

Preschool Science Activities for Summer

Patriotic Ice Activity by Teaching Mama – How does salt interact with frozen water? It makes it melt, of course! This science activity is great fun for preschoolers while teaching them how salt and ice interact with each other. Plus, it is the perfect cool-down summer experiment!

Frozen Ocean Animal Rescue by Fun Learning For Kids – What’s better than an ice-cold experiment on a hot summer day? This frozen activity is perfect for engaging little minds, challenging them to discover new methods, and squeal with pride when they learn the trick to rescuing the animals quickly.

Will it Melt? Candy Science by Playdough to Plato – You might opt to stay inside on a hot, steamy day but why not get outside for the perfect sunny science experiment! This fun activity relies on the heat of the sun and sweet treats you might already have lying around.

Ice Castles by Fun-A-Day – Using simple materials like an ice cube tray and droppers, create a towering ice structure…and then watch it melt! Adding some extra sparkly items to the ice cubes makes this science activity even more interesting!

Bubble Tower Science Experiment by Fantastic Fun and Learning – Time to get outside and get creative! Using simple materials like bubbles and a variety of different shaped containers, it’s time to see who can make the largest bubble tower.

collage of seasonal preschool science activities

We hope you and your preschoolers enjoy all these fun preschool science activities!

collage of preschool science activities with the text science experiments for preschool

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School • Things To Do

18 Easy Science Experiments Perfect for Preschoolers

science experiments preschool

September 9, 2021

easy science experiments for preschoolers

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Science projects are the perfect messy fun! Packed with messy appeal for young kids, but also packed full of the learning opportunities that appeal to parents! Get started with these easy science experiments that are perfect for preschoolers and toddlers .

Don’t miss our best content straight to your inbox!  Sign up now  and get our FREE newsletters packed with fun ideas and things to do with the kids, family-friendly recipes, expert advice, parenting tips and great competitions.

These easy science experiments are perfect for preschool aged children. Many of them would be great for older children too, so they could be enjoyed together as a family activity.

You May Also Enjoy 10 Fun Ideas for Entertaining Preschoolers at Home

Easy Science Experiments for Preschoolers

#1. ice and salt experiment.

easy science experiments for preschoolers

Image: Learning & Exploring Through Play

I think I enjoyed this fascinating salt and ice experiment just as much as Little N (toddler)! As you observe the salt melting craters into the ice, that’s where the colouring seeps through and creates beautiful coloured tunnels.

You May Also Enjoy 28 Rainbow Inspired Activities for Kids

#2. Colour Mixing on Coffee Filters

Science experiments for preschoolers

Image: Messy Little Monster

Using primary colours (red, yellow and blue) and coffee filters, why not explore the different secondary colours you can create? Kids can see for themselves all the different shades of colours that can be made by mixing 2 (or more) colours together.

It is fascinating to watch as the paint spreads and is absorbed by the the coffee filters. Messy Little Monster uses jumbo eye droppers to make this simple colour mixing activity that works on fine motor skills.

#3. Make Glow in the Dark Bubbles

glow in the dark bubbles (1)

Make your very own glow in the dark bubbles for hours of outdoor fun!

You May Also Enjoy 7 Simple Sensory Box Ideas

#4. Pop, Rock Balloons

science experiments for preschoolers

Image: A Little Pinch of Perfect

This is a great idea from A Little Pinch of Perfect for pop rock balloons .

As the Pop Rocks and the soda make little bubbles, when they pop, the air inside the bubbles fills the balloon right in front of your very eyes!

#5. Create Fizzy Lemonade

science experiments for preschoolers

Image: Learn with Play at Home

What a fun idea! Why not let your preschool create their very own edible science experiment? This fizzing lemonade experiment from Learn With Play at Home is the perfect little experiment before meal time.

#6. Simple Colour Mixing Science

colour mixing experiment for preschoolers

Image: My Mundane and Miraculous Life

Simple? Fun? Educational? – Check!

Sometimes the most simple set-ups are enjoyed the most. Most preschoolers LOVE water play, and this easy colour mixing science experiment  from My Mundane and Miraculous Life is sure to be popular. Simply add some food colouring and away they go, creating lots of different colours!

#7. Little Scientist Space

science experiments for preschoolers

Image: Epic Childhood

Perhaps you want to create a space that offers lots of experimenting and imaginative play? Epic Childhood has some great ideas for little scientists in this post , where they share their set-up.

You May Also Enjoy 5 Fun Science Experiments for Kids

#8. Colourful Milk Experiment

science experiments for preschoolers

Image: Crafts by Amanda

This colourful milk experiment from Crafts by Amanda is fascinating, and all it requires is milk, food colouring and dish soap. There is a great video to go along with it too, as well as explanations around the science behind the fun!

#9. Walking Water

science experiments for preschoolers

Image: Parenting Chaos

This colour-mixing activity is pretty awesome! A beautiful rainbow experiment, creating colours through walking water  from Parenting Chaos. Using some simple tools your little ones will look on in amazement as new colours are created before their very eyes!

You May Also Enjoy 27 Innovative Water Play Ideas for Kids

#10. Water Bottle Fountain

science experiments for preschoolers

Add a twist to your water play and create your very own fountain! This water bottle fountain experiment from Learn with Play at Home allows children to see that air takes up room and is always present even though we can’t see it.

#11. Oil and Water Discover Bottles

science experiments for preschoolers

Image: Play Trains

Children of this age love transferring, filling and emptying containers. By adding a couple of simple ingredients you can extend their play by allowing them to explore changes that take place when you combine oil and water . Get the instructions over at Play Trains.

You May Also Enjoy 5 Fun Halloween Science Experiments

#12. Rainbow Eruptions

Easy Science experiments for preschoolers

Image: Learn Play Imagine

How beautiful do these rainbow eruptions   from Learn Play Imagine look? Using 2 simple ingredients you too could be enjoying rainbow eruptions with your little ones!

#13. Fireworks in a Jar

science experiments for preschoolers

Image: I Can Teach My Child

Is your little one fascinated with colours and fireworks? Then this fireworks in a jar project from I Can Teach My Child is for you! The great thing about this experiment is you will most likely have all the ingredients you need at home already.

#14. Colouring Flowers/Vegetables

14 Preschool Science

  • Colouring Wild Carrot – Fireflies and Mudpies
  • Colouring Roses – Hello, Wonderful
  • How Does a Plant Drink? – SFI (Science Foundation Ireland)
  • Dye one flower two colours! – Homegrown Friends

#15. Soap Clouds

Easy Science Experiments for Preschoolers

Image: Our Best Bites

Soap clouds , like these ones from Our Best Bites, smell divine! They are also great for sensory play and your children can stand and watch the ‘cloud’ forming too. Get the details at Our Best Bites.

#16. Rainbow Paper

Easy Science Experiments

Image: The Science Kiddo

Look how effective this rainbow paper is – and it only takes 5 minutes to create! The project and instructions can be found at The Science Kiddo .

#17. Sink or Float

Easy Science experiments

Image: The Joys of Boys

This couldn’t be easier – a container of water and a hunt around the home for items, is all that’s needed.

Enjoy this Sink or Float experiment from The Joys of Boys and take it in turns to predict if you think an item will sink or float. A great way to teach mathematical concepts too!

#18. Cress Heads

Cress Heads

You May Also Enjoy: Tips for Making Gardening Fun for Kids

Stop by  Learning and Exploring Through Play for lots more ideas for activities for little learners.

Easy Science Experiments Perfect for Preschoolers

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25 Awesome STEM Activities For Preschoolers

What do you think of when you hear the term  STEM preschool activities?  Sounds crazy, like the debates about kindergarten being the new first grade. So why STEM for preschoolers, and what activities are considered STEM in early childhood? Find out below how preschool STEM activities are easy and make for fantastic, playful learning.

Preschool STEM activities and preschool science experiments for kids ages 3-6. Why do preschool STEM? Learn how to set up an environment to encourage preschool STEM without it being challenging or adult led. Simple STEM activities and science experiments for young kids to enjoy that are playful too.

What Is STEM?

STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and math. Some people also include art and call it STEAM! We put together a huge resource guide to understanding STEM with tons of ideas and information to get you started, whether at home or in the classroom.

ALSO CHECK OUT: STEAM Activities For Kids

Why STEM Activities for Preschoolers?

We love participating in simple STEM activities at home, and my son always enjoys them when they are presented at school. Here’s our list of reasons STEM is so valuable for preschoolers…

  • Kids need time to wander around, explore nature, and make observations.
  • Preschoolers love to build block cities, humongous towers, and crazy sculptures.
  • They need free access to blank paper and various art tools to explore colors and textures.
  • Preschoolers want to play around with loose parts and create neat patterns.
  • They need the opportunity to mix potions and get messy.

Can you see the hints of science, engineering, math, and art in all those things? That’s what makes an activity great for preschool STEM and STEAM!

The youngest kids already know so much about ecology, geology, physics, chemistry, and astronomy. YOU just don’t realize it yet. All they need to know comes from exploring the world around them.

The best thing adults can do with preschool STEM is to stand back and observe. Maybe offer up a question or two to encourage more exploration or observation. But please, please don’t lead your kids step by step!

Allowing your kids to engage in a STEM or STEAM-rich environment provides them with immense opportunities for personal growth. Additionally, it encourages self-confidence, which turns into leadership down the road.

Empower Your Kids With STEM

We need innovators, inventors, engineers, explorers, and problem solvers. We don’t need more followers; instead, we need kids who will take the lead and solve the problems that no one else has solved.

And that starts with preschool STEM activities that allow kids to be kids and allow them to play and explore out of their seats joyfully.

So if you hear the word preschool STEM curriculum and you really feel like you want to roll your eyes, just remember adults like to make big titles. Your kids will adore preschool STEM activities because of the freedom they will provide.

It’s a win/win situation for adults and kids and, ultimately, the entire world. So, what type of preschool STEM activities will you share with your kids?

What Do You Need For Preschool STEM?

There are no specific tools, toys, or products that you must have to create fantastic preschool STEM activities. I guarantee that you have everything you already need!

Of course, there are always a few fun things you can add to a STEM kit and always have on hand. But I encourage you to look for those things first around the house or classroom.

Check out these helpful STEM resources…

  • Home Science Lab Set Up
  • Preschool Science Center Ideas
  • DIY Science Kit

New! Printable STEM Alphabet Coloring Pages

Create a STEM atmosphere for toddlers, preschoolers, kindergarteners, and beyond with our printable STEM alphabet coloring pages and posters! Includes full-size pages in both color and black and white.

science experiments preschool

25 Preschool STEM Activities

Check out the suggestions below for fun STEM activities for preschoolers, from science to engineering, technology, and math. Also, simple preschool STEM challenges that include all four areas of learning. Click on the links below to learn more about each STEM activity.

Observation skills start with the 5 senses. Discover how to set up an excellent and simple discovery table for early childhood learning and play that uses all 5 senses. Plus, it includes additional 5 senses activities!

science experiments preschool

Grab some items from around the home or classroom and investigate what materials absorb water and what materials don’t.

science experiments preschool

Apple Fractions

Enjoy edible apple fractions! It’s a tasty math activity that explores fractions with young kids. Pair with our free apple fractions printable.

Balloon Rocket

3-2-1 blast off! What can you do with a balloon and a straw? Build a balloon rocket, of course! It is simple to set up and sure to get the discussion rolling about what makes the balloon move.

Mix up your own inexpensive bubble solution recipe and get blowing with one of these fun bubble science experiments. 

science experiments preschool

Tr building activities for preschoolers, too! If you haven’t pulled out the toothpicks and marshmallows with your kids, now’s the time! Or set up this bridge-building challenge with blocks, miscellaneous items, and paper!

science experiments preschool

Chick Pea Foam

Have fun with this taste-safe sensory play foam made with ingredients you probably already have in the kitchen! This edible shaving foam, or aquafaba, as it is commonly known, is made from the water chickpeas are cooked in.

Dancing Corn

Can you make corn dance? I bet you can with this simple to set up science activity.

Egg Drop Project

Design the best way to protect your egg from breaking when dropping it from a height. Bonus suggestions for how to make this simple STEM challenge work for preschoolers.

Do you have a young paleontologist in the making? What does a paleontologist do? They discover and study dinosaur bones, of course! You will want to set up this must-try dinosaur activity for your preschoolers.

science experiments preschool

Freezing Water

Explore the freezing point of water and discover what happens when you freeze salt water. All you need are some bowls of water and salt. You can even try ice fishing indoors!

Set up a simple seed germination jar and watch what happens to the seeds.

Ice Cream In A Bag

Make your own ice cream in a bag without using a freezer. Fun science you can eat!

Ice makes for excellent sensory play and science material. Ice and water play make the best non-messy/messy play around! Keep a couple of towels handy, and you are good to go! Check out the many fun ice-melting activities you can do.

science experiments preschool

Kaleidoscope

Make a homemade kaleidoscope for STEAM (Science + Art)! Find out what materials you need and how to make a kaleidoscope with a Pringles can. 

Beginner Coding

This printable beginner coding game is a fun way to teach kids about algorithms as they help the vehicle get to the right building!

science experiments preschool

How do you make magic milk or color-changing rainbow milk? The chemical reaction in this magic milk experiment is fun to watch and makes for great hands-on learning.

Exploring magnets makes an awesome discovery table! Discovery tables are simple low tables with a theme for kids to explore. Usually, the materials laid out are meant for as much independent discovery and exploration as possible. Magnets are fascinating science, and kids love to play with them!

science experiments preschool

Measuring Length

Learn about what length is in math and how it differs from width with the free printable worksheet. Measure and compare the lengths of everyday objects with a hands-on STEM project.

Measuring Sensory Bin

science experiments preschool

Nature Sample Observations

Young kids love using test tubes. Go around the yard and collect a small sample to put in a test tube. Let the kids fill the test tube with water and use a magnifying glass to examine the contents.

science experiments preschool

Find out why this egg in vinegar experiment   is a must-try STEM activity. Can you make an egg bounce? What happens to the shell? Does light pass through it? There are so many questions and one easy experiment using everyday supplies.

Our oobleck recipe is the perfect way to explore science and a fun sensory activity all in one! Just two ingredients, cornstarch and water, and the right oobleck ratio make for tons of fun oobleck play.

make oobleck from cornstarch and water

Penny Boat Challenge

Make a tin foil boat and fill it with pennies. How many can you add before it sinks?

Explore rainbows by making them with a prism and more ideas. Just lots of fun, hands-on play in this STEM activity!

Build ramps with a stack fo books and a piece of sturdy cardboard or wood. Check out how far different cars travel and play around with the height of the ramp. You can even put different materials on the surface of the ramp to test friction. It’s great fun!

Use homemade ramps to explore friction with toy car friction experiment.

Set up some objects (we used towers of LEGO bricks) and explore shadows, or just use your body. Also, check out shadow puppets.

science experiments preschool

Make slime with one of our easy slime recipes, and learn about the science of non-Newtonian fluids.

Work on one-to-one correspondence, number recognition, and writing numbers with snap cubes and our free printable snap cube number mats.

Solids, Liquids, Gasses

Can you believe this is a straightforward water science experiment you can do in little time if necessary? Explore how water changes from solid to liquid to gas.

Sugar Crystals

Sugar crystals are easy to grow from a supersaturated solution. Make homemade rock candy with this simple experiment.

Learn about volcanoes and have fun with your own erupting volcano baking soda and vinegar reaction.

Play with volume using solids and liquids! This is a playful way to learn more complicated math concepts.

science experiments preschool

More Helpful STEM Resources To Get You Started

Here are a few resources to help you introduce STEM more effectively to your kiddos or students and feel confident when presenting materials. You’ll find helpful free printables throughout.

  • Engineering Design Process Explained
  • What Is An Engineer
  • Engineering Words
  • Questions for Reflection (get them talking about it!)
  • BEST STEM Books for Kids
  • 14 Engineering Books for Kids
  • Jr. Engineer Challenge Calendar (Free)
  • Must Have STEM Supplies List
  • STEM Activities For Toddlers
  • Best Building Toys For Kids

Preschool STEM Project Ideas

Are you looking for fun STEM projects for preschool to fit in with a theme or holiday? Our STEM activities can be easily changed using different materials and colors to fit a season or holiday.

Check out our STEM projects for all the major holidays/ seasons below. 

  • Valentines Day STEM
  • St Patricks Day STEM
  • Earth Day Activities
  • Spring STEM Activities
  • Easter STEM Activities
  • Summer STEM
  • Fall STEM Projects
  • Halloween STEM Activities
  • Thanksgiving STEM Projects
  • Christmas STEM Activities
  • Winter STEM Activities

More Fun Preschool Topics

  • Science Experiments

weather activities for kids

Printable Preschool Pack

Get ready to explore this year with our growing Preschool STEM Bundle !

What’s Included:

There are 10+ preschool themes to get you started. This is an ” I can explore” series!

Each unit contains approximately 15 activities, with instructions and templates  as needed. Hands-on activities are provided to keep it fun and exciting. This includes sensory bins, experiments, games, and more! Easy supplies keep it low cost and book suggestions add to the learning time.

science experiments preschool

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science experiments preschool

21 Easy Science Activities for Preschoolers

Introduce science concepts to your preschool classroom with these activities and experiments.

  • brightwheel
  • Child development

20 Easy Science Activities for Preschoolers

Preschoolers may not fully understand science concepts yet, but doing science experiments is an excellent way to lay a foundation for future learning and exploration. Experimentation helps young children build a good relationship with science by making concepts fun and hands-on. 

In this article, we’ve featured simple experiments to teach preschoolers basic science concepts. But before getting into our list, let's discuss why science activities are important and what concepts children need to learn at this stage.

Teacher doing a science experiment with two young children involving water with different colors of food coloring in beakers

What are important science concepts for a preschooler to learn?

There are seven basic preschool science concepts. They include:

  • Observing: This is the first concept children learn from science experiments. For example, when you present them with an object, they are able to use their senses to describe its color, size, shape, and texture. 
  • Comparing: Once your preschoolers learn to observe items, you can introduce several items for them to compare. For example, which apple is bigger? Are the colors different? 
  • Classifying: After observing and comparing, preschoolers can progress to grouping items. They can arrange things according to shape, size, texture, or color.  
  • Measuring:  This is a more advanced skill, where preschoolers can practice measuring items for comparison instead of simply comparing the objects through observation. For example, they can use a weighing scale or tape measure to determine which banana is bigger. 
  • Communicating:  After doing experiments, preschoolers have to learn how to report their results. This can be done through documentation, drawing, or verbal description. 
  • Inferring:  Children can learn this skill through simple experiments in the classroom. For example, if your class has a thriving plant that you water consistently, the children might notice it has withered after school has been closed for an extended period of time. The children might come to the conclusion that the plant needs water. 
  • Predicting:  This skill is gained by making guesses based on prior observations. Preschoolers will start by predicting easy concepts, like what melts or what floats, and advance as they learn more.

Importance of science experiments in early childhood

When children conduct experiments, they learn to observe, predict, and question the world around them, laying the foundation for analytical thinking. These hands-on activities also provide invaluable opportunities for children to experience the thrill of discovery firsthand, encouraging them to be active participants in their own learning process. Here we discuss more benefits of introducing science in preschool:

Fuels curiosity 

As an early childhood teacher, you are most likely bombarded every few minutes with questions about why things happen. Science allows children to investigate and learn more about the world around them. Encouraging children to engage in exploratory activities can help feed curiosity and even reduce the occurrences of challenging behavior. For example, a paint-mixing activity can help neutralize high energy and avoid distracting behavior.

Enhances the curriculum 

Science doesn't have to stand on its own—other parts of the preschool curriculum can be tied to science concepts. For example, during a temperature measuring experiment, children can practice number recognition. You can also extend the lesson by discussing arctic animals or the culture of people who live in cold climates. You could even incorporate an art class by deciding to draw arctic animals. 

Boosts literacy development 

Group science experiments can boost children’s communication skills. One way this is done is by discussing predictions or observations. Children must also use their critical thinking skills to predict what to expect from the experiments and express their thoughts about the experiment.

Builds a foundation for learning 

Science experiments foster a positive attitude toward science at an early age. The skills children learn at this stage can help them think critically, improve their problem-solving skills, and understand their world better. Concepts such as animals, plants, weather, and environment can impact a child's perspective of the world around them.

Keep families informed about what their child is learning in your classroom. With brightwheel's daily report feature , you can record photos and activities and share them with families. You can also create custom newsletters for longer updates showing your classroom highlights!

Science activities for preschoolers

Each of the activities listed below is designed to be fun, engaging, and packed with learning opportunities that introduce basic scientific concepts in a way that’s accessible and exciting for young learners.

1. Grow a rainbow

The concept behind this experiment is capillary action , which is the spontaneous flow of liquid into a porous material. However, preschoolers don't need to remember that to enjoy the action. Prepare to see their faces light up as the rainbow travels up the paper towel to make a complete rainbow. It's also a good opportunity for children to learn more about colors.

a rainbow paper towel between two glasses of water

2. Sink or float 

In this experiment, children are challenged to predict what will sink and what will float . They can then do the experiment with different objects and record their findings. Remember to ask them to note which predictions they got right.

Additionally, when preschoolers use science-related terms, it expands their vocabulary. For example, science introduces them to words like species , lifecycle , habitat , and microscope .

3. Color-changing milk

This experiment is an introduction to the concept of surface tension, and requires only a few simple materials to get started. There are so many color changes during this experiment, so it's an excellent way to introduce preschoolers to observation and communicating their findings. After the experiment, ask the children when the color changes happened and why they occurred.

A round glass cooking container filled with milk and different food colors.

4. Water absorption

Understanding how different items absorb water is an important concept for children to understand in real life. This experiment will help preschoolers determine what to use when drying a spill and help them understand why they can use a napkin to wipe up a drop of water, but they need a towel to dry themselves after bathing.

5. What melts in the sun?

This is a good way to pass the time on a hot, sunny day and teach your preschoolers about melting points . Pick a mixture of items that can melt and items that don't melt and add them to a muffin tin. You could choose items such as a cube of cheese, ice, a rock, butter, or a coin. Before starting the experiment, ask the children to predict which items they think will melt and record their answers.

Place the tray in the direct sun and wait at least 15 minutes to see what happens to the items and then revisit their predictions to see which ones they got right. Later, ask them to name other items they think would melt.

a 12-compartment muffin tin filled with various items including a marshmallow, marble, rock, wooden block, cube of cheese, single lego, coin, square of butter, square of chocolate, ice cube, pieces of crayon.

6. Bubble towers

This bubble blowing activity will probably be one of your children’s favorite experiments. Add water and a few drops of dish soap to a plastic cup and have children blow out through plastic straws to make bubbles. The bubbles will grow and expand and spill over the edges of the cup. See who can create the biggest bubble tower!

7. Hands-on air pressure

Introduce your preschool class to the concept of air pressure with an experiment that gives a visual demonstration of moving an object with just air. Add two kitchen sponges to a plastic bag and place a plastic straw between the two sponges so one end is outside the bag and one is inside the bag. Seal the bag with tape. Blow into the straw to inflate the bag. Place a pom pom or cotton ball on a flat surface in front of the end of the straw and press hard on the sponges and watch the pom pom roll away.

8. Static comb

This easy experiment teaches the basics of static electricity , the friction force caused by the imbalance of positive and negative charges on a surface. The charges build up on the surface until they’re discharged. 

For this activity, take some colored paper and cut it up into small pieces. Scatter the pieces on a table. Grab a plastic comb and hold it over the pieces of paper and see what happens. Next, run the comb against your hair and hold it over the pieces of paper again. The comb will now attract the pieces of paper and they will get attached to the comb.

confetti paper scattered on a white surface and a woman's hand holding a pink comb over the confetti.

9. Magic dancing rice

This experiment shows the reactions of acids and bases. You’ll need vinegar, baking soda, a clean container, a spoon, rice, and water. 

Pour a cup of water into the container, then add a teaspoon of baking soda and stir. Sprinkle some rice in the mixture and observe what happens (the rice sinks because it's denser than water). Then add a teaspoon of vinegar to the water. You’ll observe that the vinegar reacts with the baking soda to form carbon dioxide bubbles.  

After a few minutes, the rice rises to the surface of the glass. Once the rice reaches the surface level, the gas is released, and the rice falls to the bottom of the glass, and the process continues to repeat.

10. Strong shapes

This science activity is similar to the game Jenga, and it’s a good way to introduce preschoolers to the concept of weight distribution . The idea is to make bases of different shapes—square, triangle, and cylinder—out of sheets of paper to see how much weight each base can support. Once the bases are ready, you can start stacking items such as books, one by one, on each base to see how it supports the items.

11. Glowing water experiment

This experiment introduces children to electromagnetic waves . For this experiment, you’ll need regular tap water, tonic water, a dark room, a black light, four glasses, fluorescent paint, and a highlighter pen. Fill glass one with regular tap water, glass two with tonic water, glass three with normal water and highlighter ink, and glass four with normal water and fluorescent paint. Put the four glasses in a dark room, place the back light 12 inches away from the glasses, and watch which glasses glow.

You’ll see that glass one doesn’t glow under black light. However, glass two glows brightly because the quinine in tonic water makes invisible ultraviolet rays visible. Glass three glows because highlighter ink contains phosphors, which react to the black light, causing the water to glow. Because fluorescent paint also contains phosphors, glass four will also glow under black light.

Four glasses of water, one green, one orange, one blue, and one clear, sitting on a white board.

12. Egg and toothpaste experiment 

Convincing children to brush their teeth can be a challenge. This experiment presents an opportunity to show preschoolers how toothpaste protects teeth from discoloration.

For this experiment, you’ll need a dark soda like Coca-Cola, toothpaste, black coffee, four glasses, and four raw eggs. Pour black coffee into two glasses and pour the soda into the remaining two glasses. Coat two of the eggs with toothpaste. Place one plain egg in a glass of soda and one with toothpaste into the other glass of soda. Then place one plain egg in a glass of coffee and a coated egg in the other glass of coffee. Allow the setup to rest for at least 24 hours for desired results. 

You should find that the plain egg in the soda glass stains, while the one coated in toothpaste doesn’t. Similarly, the toothpaste-coated egg in coffee doesn’t stain, but the plain egg in the coffee does.  

This happens because when the plain eggs are placed in the liquids, the acidic contents react with the calcium carbonate to form stains. However, when the eggs are covered with toothpaste, the fluoride creates a protective layer around the eggs to prevent the acidic reaction from happening.

13. Ocean in a bottle

This simple experiment introduces children to the concept that water and oil don’t mix. For this experiment , you’ll need a funnel, blue food coloring, cooking oil, water, and a large, clear plastic bottle.  Fill the bottle with water and add several drops of food coloring. Ask your preschoolers to shake the bottle to disperse the food coloring and observe what happens.

a plastic bottle filled with a blue liquid

14. Leak-proof bag

This experiment is fascinating, even for some adults. Did you know that you can push pencils through a bag full of water without the water spilling out? Well, it’s possible because the bag is made of a long flexible chain of molecules (polymers), so when the pencils enter the bag, molecules form a seal around them. You’ll need sharpened pencils and a gallon-size storage bag for the experiment. Fill the bag halfway with water and poke a pencil straight into one side and through to the other side. Allow the preschoolers to try this with as many pencils as they can.

a bag of water with pencils pushed through the bag and two children holding the bag while sitting in two white chairs at a while table.

15. Rain cloud in a jar

This experiment allows preschoolers to understand the idea behind water saturation as well as  explore clouds and rain in an engaging way. It shows children the process through which clouds get thick before the rain falls. 

For this experiment, you’ll need a large jar, pipettes, gel food coloring, and shaving cream. Mix the food coloring with water in a small cup. Fill ¾ of the large jar with water and spray some shaving cream on top to represent a cloud. Ask the children to use the pipettes to squirt the colored water on top of the cream. Soon the colored water will seep down through the cream (cloud) into the water, just like rain!

two small paper cups with blue paint-stained water, a large jar filled with shaving cream with blue paint on top, and a child's hands on a dropper in one of the paper cups

16. How to keep a tissue dry in water

This activity is a good way to explain how air pressure works. For this experiment, you’ll need a container, cup, water, and tissue. Instruct the children to push the tissue inside the cup and then fill the container with water. Have the children push the cup down into the water while keeping it straight. 

When done properly, no water touches the tissue. This is because the air pushes the water away from the cup. Lastly, instruct the children to place the cup inside the water again, tilting it this time. This lets air escape from the cup, allowing the water to wet the tissue.

17. Disappearing eggshell

This disappearing egg experiment is a good introduction to how different chemical agents react. In this case, the eggshells dissolve because they contain calcium carbonate. The latter dissolves in the vinegar to produce carbon dioxide gas and calcium ions. 

For the experiment, you’ll need a fresh egg, white vinegar, and a 16-ounce mason jar with a lid and ring. Place your egg in the mason jar and fill the jar halfway with vinegar. It’s important not to completely fill the jar, because the build-up of carbon dioxide could cause the jar to burst.  Cover the jar loosely to allow the gas to escape, and let it sit for at least 48 hours.

18. Floating egg

This experiment is a good way to explore the concept of density. You’ll need tap water, table salt, sugar, saline water, four raw eggs, four glass jars, and a tablespoon. Fill four glasses halfway: Fill glass one with water, glass two with salt water, glass three with sugar water, and glass four with saline water. Place an egg in each glass and observe. 

You’ll find that the egg in glass one sinks because the egg is denser than tap water. However, the egg in glass two floats because the salt increases the water’s density. Similarly, the egg in glass three floats. The egg in glass four sinks.

egg floating experiment with four different liquids

19. Dissolve objects

This experiment will help your preschoolers understand items that dissolve in water . When choosing substances for the experiment, be sure to include substances that won’t dissolve. Sugar, cornmeal, flour, oatmeal, orzo noodles, and colored sprinkles are good substances to consider. Encourage the children to predict which substances will dissolve before starting the experiment and compare the predictions with the results after completing it.

six small glass bowls, each filled with different substances, and a child's arm and hand holding a metal spoon in one of the bowls.

20. Thunderstorm formation

This is an interesting introduction to the concept of convection . Convection is the science behind why thunderstorms are more common during the afternoon when the sun heats up moist air near the land that rises into cold air.

For this experiment, you’ll need water, two cups, a container, and two colors of washable paint or food coloring. You can use red with warm water and blue with cold water.  In one cup, mix cold water and the blue coloring; in the other cup, mix red coloring and warm water. Then pour the cups of colored water at opposite ends of the container of room temperature water. Observe how the red coloring floats while the blue coloring sinks. 

This happens because warm water has a lower density than room-temperature water, while cold water has a higher density than room-temperature water. Eventually, the cold water becomes warm and starts to rise. Conversely, the warm water cools and starts to sink. This process is called convection.

21. Shadow play

This simple activity explores the science of shadows and can be linked to the concept of solar eclipses . O n a sunny day, take the children outside with a variety of objects of different shapes and sizes (e.g., toys, balls, blocks). Discuss how every object casts a shadow when it blocks the light from the sun, similar to how the moon blocks the sun during a solar eclipse.

Encourage the children to experiment with casting shadows in different ways, using their bodies or the objects provided. They can see how the size and position of the object can change the shadow. Link this back to the solar eclipse by explaining how the moon is like the objects the children are using, and it casts a shadow on Earth during an eclipse.

It's time to get to the lab

Encouraging children to participate in science activities sets a strong foundation for an interest in the subject. Integrating science experiments in early education equips children with the skills necessary to navigate and understand the complexities of the world, fostering a sense of wonder and inquiry that will serve them throughout their educational journeys and beyond.

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STEAM Powered Family

Science Activities for Preschoolers

Did you know that preschool is the perfect time to start doing science experiments? Preschoolers have so much curiosity at this age, making it the perfect time to get hands on with our learning and discovery. Here we are sharing science activities that we have done ourselves with young kids with incredible results. They are not just about learning scientific concepts, they are designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning in young minds. At this age our number one goal is to foster a thrill for discovery! Remember, the key is to have fun and explore science in a playful, engaging way with your young learners. So let’s explore some science ideas for preschool.

Preschool Science Experiments

Science Activities for Preschoolers

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Exploring science with preschoolers can be exciting, but it can also come with some challenges. Today we wanted to share some of our favorite science projects that are both educational and fun that you can try with your little ones. We want to make it easy for you, so make sure you click through to each activity to learn all of our pro tips and information to answer all of those questions your kids are going to ask.

Although we have focused on proving preschool science activities, many of these are actually STEM activities that incorporate not only science, but also some technology, engineering and math. 

No matter which activities you do, remember the most important rule, have fun!

Tips for Doing Preschool Science Experiments

Doing science activities with preschoolers can be a lot of fun, but you also need to always ensure safety first. But guess what? Even that part can be fun! I highly recommend buying children’s lab coats and lab safety glasses (in fun colors!) , for your preschoolers. It not only will help protect your kids, but it taps into children’s imaginations and helps them embrace the idea of being little scientists.

When doing any of these activities, proper adult supervision is required at all times, and ensure you adapt the activities as required to meet children where they are at maturity and ability wise. We want science to be fun and safe!

Another tip, always assume things are going to get messy! Cover areas and work in spaces when you can let kids explore freely without worrying about the mess. For some of these experiments, you can even head outside!

Whether you are at home and doing some homeschool science or looking for some classroom experiments, there are lots of fun science activities you can do with your kids!

Preschool Science and STEM

Magic color changing playdough.

Sure, anyone can make playdough, but why not make magic playdough that changes color? Kids can experiment by exposing the playdough to different colors in this heat reactive experiment. My kids especially loved chilling different shaped items and making patterns in the playdough, then warming it up to see them disappear.

science experiments preschool

We also have recipes for Magic Moon Dough or Magic Oobleck , if you prefer a different sensory science experiment.

A classic activity to keep the kids entertained and busy having fun and learning. Oobleck is a non-Newtonian Fluid, which means it becomes solid under pressure, then liquifies once the pressure is removed. Kids love playing with Oobleck and learn cool lessons in states of matter. We have lots of different recipes for making Oobleck . This is a great outdoor activity!

Oobleck - Science, States of Matter and Senses study all wrapped up into one fantastic project about non-Newtonian liquids

Hatching Dino Eggs

This baking soda and vinegar experiment idea came about because I needed to find ways to help my dinosaur obsessed preschooler build their fine motor skills. Chemistry may seem like an advanced topic, but in this Hatching Dino Eggs Science Activity we make it easy and fun! Kids love using syringes and pipettes to make their dino eggs fizz and “hatch” revealing a little dinosaur hidden inside.

Hatch baking soda dinosaur eggs with science in this fun activity that will capture the imagination of all ages! Simple chemistry learning.

Bouncy Egg Experiment

This fun science experiment involves soaking a raw egg in vinegar to dissolve its shell, leaving a bouncy, rubbery egg. It’s a fascinating way to teach children about osmosis and the properties of eggshells. Plus, kids have fun testing their Bouncy Eggs to see how much they can bounce… or break!

Bouncy rubber egg in vinegar experiment

Making Water Rise

This experiment was one of the first activities that I did with my kids when they were just tiny where I saw their eyes light up with so much curiosity! In this project, kids learn about creating a vacuum in a simple setup involving a jar, water, and a candle. This How Does Water Rise activity demonstrates basic principles of physics in an easily understandable way. For really little ones, I do this as a demonstration and they watch as I do the experiment, but they can still get involved by using the thermometer to take readings.

Why Does Water Rise? Best Science Experiments for Kids!

Keep It Dry Experiment

This is a really quick and easy experiment that little kids love. Watch their surprise as you immerse a glass in water with paper towel inside… and it stays dry! Then let them do the Keep it Dry experiment themselves.

Can you keep paper dry in water, even when it's completely submerged? You can if you understand the science in this magic meets science water project.

Frozen Bubbles

If you live in a colder climate, try freezing bubbles outside. It’s a fun way to explore the science of freezing and weather conditions. We share the secret to the perfect frozen bubbles , so you can have success with your little ones.

The secret behind making frozen bubbles

Not cold enough for frozen bubbles? You can still do some Bubble Science .

Bottle Crush

A fun and visually impressive way to understand heat transfer, using a plastic bottle, hot water, and cold conditions (or ice). My little ones love doing Bottle Crush as a magic trick that always wows!

Bottle Crush - Crush a bottle with your mind, and a little science. Inspired by Mythbusters, a science experiment that seems like magic!

Balloon Races – Physics Fun

You might think preschoolers are too young to learn about physics, but they aren’t too little! They will have a blast with Balloon Races which are a very fun, fast paced way to learn about basic physics principles. It will also help kids with lots of energy, burn off some steam while learning.

Exciting, hands on physics activities that explore Newton's Laws of Motion. An inquiry based lesson plan to facilitate deeper learning and retention.

Glitter Dance – Surface Tension Experiment

Using just a plate, water, glitter (or pepper), and dish soap, this Glitter Dance experiment is a straightforward demonstration of how soap affects water’s surface tension.

Magic Glitter Handwashing Demonstration

Oil and Water Experiment

This easy science project is a fantastic way to explore the properties of oil and water , along with color theory. Kids can observe how oil and water do not mix and explore the mixing of colors.

oil and water experiment

Ice Fishing Experiment

This is a fantastic STEM game and experiment for preschoolers that uses salt, water, and homemade ice fish to explore the science of how salt affects ice melt. It’s a playful and educational activity that combines science with a fishing game .

Salt and Ice Experiment - Ice fishing experiment

Growing Crystals

Growing crystals can be a magical experience for young minds. It is honestly one of my favorite science activities, because the results are so beautiful! This Egg Geode Crystal Growing activity involves simple ingredients and offers a hands-on approach to learning about crystallization and geology.

Crystal Growing Science Experiment

If you are looking for crystal growing using other ingredients, we explore lots of different options in our Crystal Gnome project or try growing tasty sugar crystals .

This experiment is not only a visual treat but also a great way to learn about chemical reactions and density. Preschoolers will be mesmerized watching the bubbles dance and play in a homemade lava lamp, which can be made in lots of different ways using household items. We share 5 of our favorite Lava Lamp Activities , including glow in the dark versions.

Against a white background a mason jar has dark and light green liquids with bubbles in dark green going through the light green layer in a lava lamp style. Overlay text says How to Make a Lava Lamp

In this captivating Magic Milk science experiment , preschoolers create an explosion of color as they use soap to disrupt the milk’s surface tension. It’s a fantastic way to teach about chemical reactions and surface tension in a mesmerizing way. Play with the fat content of your milk to create new reactions.

Color explosion magic milk experiment

Elephant Toothpaste

A classic experiment where a chemical reaction creates a foamy gusher volcano like reaction, is Elephant Toothpaste . This can be easily done at home with common ingredients and is always a hit with kids.

Elephant Toothpaste Experiment

Make sure you head to your local science center when they are doing demonstration days. They often do massive elephant toothpaste experiments with strong chemicals that erupt many feet into the air!

Walking Rainbow Experiment

We totally messed up this experiment the first time we did it, but once we figured it out, the kids were fascinated and loved checking on the progress over a few days. The Walking Rainbow experiment is a beautiful demonstration of capillary action and color mixing, requiring just jars, paper towels, water, and food coloring… just make sure you read my notes to ensure you don’t make the same mistakes I did!

The Walking Rainbow science experiment should have been easy, but due to a mistake we discovered a fascinating capillary action and natural balance project.

Rainbow Rain

Keep those rainbows going with this pretty Rainbow Rain science activity that replicates rain clouds. A simple and beautiful experiment involving water, shaving cream, and food coloring, perfect for a rainy day activity.

Rainbow Rain Shaving Cream Cloud in a Jar Experiment

Skittles Experiment

A super easy and colorful experiment using Skittles and water, the Skittles Experiment is always a hit. My kids especially enjoyed creating different designs and patterns. We even made a Starry Night inspired one. This experiment is not only beautiful, but it smells good too!

Skittles Experiment for the Science Fair inspired by Starry Night

Does it Float?

In this fun activity, young children can explore the science concepts of buoyancy and density, by testing whether items sink or float. We loved using this project to introduce the scientific method to our little ones. You can also do this experiment with water balloons or for a really quick and easy science experiments, do it with floating soda pop cans .

With this activity we are teaching the scientific process and encouraging kids to use inquiry based activities to prove theories.

Making Milk Plastic

This surprisingly simple experiment involves making bioplastics out of milk to create cute little figures and toys. It’s a wonderful way to introduce the concept of polymers and plastics. Plus, they get to keep a neat keepsake of their scientific creation.

Make plastic from milk. Create your own toys, beads, jewelry, and more, with ingredients you have right now in your kitchen. It's so easy and super cool!

These science activities are perfect for sparking a love of learning and discovery in preschoolers. Each experiment is designed to be simple, engaging, and educational, making science fun and accessible for young learners. Use this list as inspiration for your next session of exploration, discovery and science! Most of all… have fun!

Science Activities for Preschoolers

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62 Preschool Science Activities: Experiments, Challenges, And Crafts

November 9, 2023 //  by  Alison Vrana

As your kids approach school age, it becomes increasingly important to develop their knowledge of colors, numbers, shapes, and the alphabet. While you’re engaging them with these vital concepts, it’s also important to satisfy their need to think, create, and wonder. With these awesome science experiments, you’ll spark their curiosity about the world around them as you fill their lessons with fun-filled activities to introduce them to captivating scientific concepts.

We’ve gathered up 62 of the best science projects that are perfect for your inquisitive preschoolers and their developing minds.

1. Design Your Own Planet

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Let your kiddos’ imaginations run wild as you have them create their very own planets! Allow them to use balloons, tape, glue, and construction paper to mold their worlds before inviting them to adorn their crafts with weird and wonderful colors that are indigenous to their planet. 

Learn More: Education

2. Build a Bridge

science experiments preschool

Introduce your preschoolers to the basics of engineering with this building challenge. Task them with creating bridges out of simple materials like toothpicks and marshmallows. You’ll encourage them to connect their materials together to see who can build the strongest bridge.

Learn More: Learn with Play at Home

3. Design a Catapult

science experiments preschool

Develop your little ones’ critical thinking skills with this super cool craft. Invite them to design and create catapults using popsicle sticks, rubber bands, and bottle lids before you have them test their structures by prompting them to see how far they can hurl some pom poms.

Learn More: Coffee Cups and Crayons

4. Turn Salt Into Drinking Water

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Turn your class into pioneers of science with this hands-on experiment. Assist them in experimenting with different methods as they try to turn saltwater into fresh drinking water. They’ll learn basic principles that real scientists use every day, all while having a ball of a time doing it.

5. Design a Weather Calendar

science experiments preschool

Involve your children in tracking weather patterns with this collaborative classroom weather calendar. Start each morning off by inviting them to track weather conditions like rain, sun, or wind or invite them to predict what weather they think awaits them in the coming days.

Learn More: Simply Today Life

6. Make a Wind Sock

science experiments preschool

Here’s another exciting weather activity, but this one is all about wind! Engage your learners in whipping up this whimsical wind sock craft that you’ll then use to teach them about weather concepts like wind direction and wind speed.

Learn More: Stir the Wonder

7. Dissolving Peeps

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Your kids are sure to love this adorable candy experiment, that’s perfect for Easter time! Using Peeps, you’ll task them with testing the acidity of different liquids like vinegar and baking soda. Allow them to place their Peeps in small containers filled with each liquid before you have them record the speed at which each piece of candy dissolves.

Learn More: Pre-K Printable Fun

8. Dissolving Jelly Beans

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No Peeps on hand? No worries, here’s an alternative activity where your tots will use jelly beans. Simply have them place their beans in liquids such as soda, water, and milk before you have them observe the speed of each reaction as they watch their candies disappear.

9. Frozen Flowers

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Teach your class all about freezing points with this vibrant experiment. Start by sending them out into your schoolyard to pick out a bunch of flowers. Then, invite them back inside and have them place their flowers in water before freezing. The result? A beautiful and icy flower bouquet.

Learn More: Mombrite

10. Salt Painting

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Treat your little artists to a texturally rich activity by having them design salt paintings. Prompt them to map out their designs using glue before inviting them to add in a tactile effect by sprinkling salt over their patterns. Once dried, allow them to use watercolor paint to fill their artwork with color as you watch their creations come to life!

Learn More: The Best Ideas for Kids

11. Water Refraction Experiment

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Dazzle your kiddos with a little bit of scientific magic! In this easy experiment, you’ll begin by mapping out colorful strips on paper before placing it behind a glass jar. Then, encourage your class to fill each glass with different amounts of water as you invite them to observe the shape-shifting magic that occurs when the water reaches each color.

Learn More: What Do We Do All Day

12. Magic Moon Dough

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Wow your learners with this magic moon dough that changes color when you touch it! Assist them in mixing together potato starch, flour, coconut oil, and thermochromic pigment. Once combined, you’ll spread the dough out on a flat surface before you invite them to touch it and observe how the color changes according to the warmth of their hands.

Learn More: STEAM Powered Family

13. Electric Eels

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Here’s an electrifying experiment for your science aficionados. Begin by having them place gummy worms in a small glass before allowing them to soak their worms in vinegar and baking soda to spark a fizzy reaction that culminates in a glass full of “electric eels”.

Learn More: Bitz n Giggles

14. Sunscreen Paintings

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Teach your littles the importance of using sunscreen with this engaging experiment. Task them with painting doodles onto black construction paper using sunscreen. Then, let them place their designs outside or in the sunlight for several hours before inviting them to observe how the sun lightens the rest of their paper leaving behind their darkened drawings.

Learn More: Team Cartwright

15. Magic Mud

This science project is sure to become a class favorite as you have your kids create Magic Mud! Task them with mixing together simple ingredients to create this glow-in-the-dark gloop and then invite them to play around with their ooze as they notice how it morphs into a solid while moving but reverts to a liquid while stable.

Learn More: YouTube

16. Straw Rockets

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Using these printable templates, you’ll liven up your children’s day with this exciting activity. Simply have them cut and paste together these rocket crafts before challenging them to blow air through the straws to see who can fly their rocket the furthest.

Learn More: Artsy Fartsy Mama

17. Fireworks in a Jar

Fascinate your young minds with this colorful project. Involve them in filling a jar with water and oil before allowing them to drop in different hues of food coloring. They’ll marvel at this dazzling reaction as they watch their colors slowly separate and swirl into the water.

Learn More: I Can Teach My Child

18. Magnetic Slime

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Here’s an interactive activity that’s fantastic for introducing your class to the science behind magnetism. Encourage them to create a simple mixture using liquid starch, iron oxide powder, and glue; and then allow them to hover magnets over their slime to explore how they can manipulate it using magnetism!

Learn More: Frugal Fun 4 Boys and Girls

19. Color Changing Water

science experiments preschool

This color-mixing project is perfectly tailored to your preschoolers’ growing curiosity, and it also doubles as an interactive sensory bin! Arm them with kitchen items like eye droppers, measuring spoons, and measuring cups before allowing them to use their tools to drop food coloring and glitter into the water to transform it into a colorful whirlpool.

Learn More: My Bored Toddler

20. Dancing Acorns

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This fizzy experiment is sure to keep your little scientists entertained for hours. Simply place sinkable plastic items like beads or jewels in water and then task your kiddos with dropping in some Alka-Seltzer tablets. As the tablets start to dissolve they’ll notice how the chemical reaction causes their little trinkets to dance around the water.

Learn More: Teaching Ideas

21. Frozen Bubbles

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Take science to the outdoors with this icy activity that’s perfect for a cold Winter’s day. Invite your tots to blow bubbles in the snow using bubble solution and straws. As each bubble is blown, prompt them to observe the speedy reaction as the icy air causes their bubble structures to crystallize.

Learn More: Fireflies and Mudpies

22. Ocean Life Experiment

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Help your preschoolers visualize density with this simple ocean activity . Task them with filling an empty jar with sand, oil, and water before having them drop in some food coloring to turn their liquid into a beachy blue. They’ll notice how each substance either sinks or floats to the bottom because of the varying densities.

Learn More: Natural Beach Living

23. Wax Paper Experiment

Combine art and science in this creative project as you have your kiddos create wax paper art. Begin by having them crumple up wax paper then assist them in using an iron to transfer glossy paper into the folds. Afterward, encourage them to use watercolors and a spray bottle to adorn their canvases with color to reveal the hidden patterns.

Learn More: Housing a Forest

24. Making Borax Crystals

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In this scientific project, your preschoolers will create homemade crystals. Start by combining Borax and warm water before inviting them to place colorful pipe cleaners or string in the solution. Over a few days, they’ll notice how their materials start to sparkle with an array of homemade crystals.

Learn More: The Craft Train

25. Skittles Experiment

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Teach your kids about complex concepts like stratification with this edible science experiment. Task them with spreading out some colorful Skittles on a plate and then prompt them to cover their candies in warm water. They’ll notice how the color starts to seep out of the Skittles creating a sweet and intricate design.

Learn More: The Soccer Mom Blog

26. Sprouting Sweet Potato

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Have your class observe scientific changes over time as you invite them to grow their own potatoes! Invite them to place toothpicks in sweet potato halves before placing them on top of containers filled with water. Throughout each day, you’ll encourage them to observe and jot down the changes they see as their sweet potato begins to sprout roots.

Learn More: Pre-K Pages

27. Dancing Corn Experiment

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Here’s another fizzy experiment that you can involve your learners in. Simply have them fill a jar with corn and then allow them to pour in baking soda and vinegar to spark an instant chemical reaction, causing the corn to zoom around the jar.

Learn More: Little Bins for Little Hands

28. Cranberry Slime

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Why make regular slime, when you can treat your kids to cranberry slime? In this fall-themed project , you’ll task them with mixing together cranberries, xanthan gum, and other simple ingredients to make their slime. Once complete, they’ll have an edible ooze that they can stretch and squish in any way they like.

Learn More: STEAMsational

29. Yeast Science Experiment

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Have your young minds whip up these easy concoctions that make for a mesmerizing experiment. Allow them to test the reactivity of yeast by having them mix yeast into 3 types of sugar. Afterward, they’ll pour their mixtures into squeezy bottles and place a balloon over the opening to observe how the chemical reaction causes the balloons to inflate.

Learn More: Lemon Lime Adventure

30. Tin Foil Boat Challenge

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Challenge your little brainiacs to work out the connection between density and floating with this creative experiment. Invite them to put together tin foil boats before you have them test their structures on water to see whether their designs float or sink.

Learn More: JDaniel4’s Mom

31. STEM Snowman

Here’s a simple experiment to test your students’ awareness of balance. Task them with creating snowmen out of paper towel rolls. Then, have them cut it into three pieces before encouraging them to balance their pieces on top of one another to make their snowman stand.

Learn More: How Wee Learn

32. Turn Milk Into Plastic!

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This crazy experiment will leave your kiddos in shock as they make plastic out of milk! Invite them to mix milk, vinegar, and food coloring together before straining their mixture and leaving it to solidify. You can then engage them in using cookie cutters to create a variety of shapes with their DIY plastic.

33. Earthworm Coding

science experiments preschool

Computer coding is fast becoming an invaluable skill in our ever-changing world. In this activity, you’ll introduce your tots to the basics of coding using adorable earthworms. Challenge them to replicate the sequences on these color-coding worksheets by having them thread colorful beads onto pipe cleaners.

Learn More: Sixth Bloom

34. Eyedropper Dot Counting

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Develop your children’s counting skills in a hands-on way with this easy STEM activity. Start by drawing different-sized circles on wax paper or a laminated sheet. Then, task your learners with using eye droppers to place drops of water in the circles to see how many drops it takes to fill each one.

Learn More: Teach Beside Me

35. Geoboard Design

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Dive into the world of shapes with this Geoboard activity! Start by handing out some Geoboards to your class before inviting them to fill their boards with shapes, patterns, and images by having them pull and stretch rubber bands around each raised point.

Learn More: The STEM Laboratory

36. Pool Noodle Engineering Wall

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This STEM activity provides a wonderful way for you to teach your preschoolers about cause and effect. Using pool noodles, twine, and anything else you want to include you’ll engage your little geniuses in creating this wall of fun. Encourage them to create intricate pulley systems or thrilling ball reaction systems as you introduce them to the basics of engineering.

Learn More: Left Brain Craft Brain

37. Make a Bouncy Ball

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Your little ones will love these homemade bouncy balls that they can make all by themselves! Assist them in mixing together borax, water, glue, and cornstarch before prompting them to add in food coloring of their choice. Once their ingredients are combined, allow them to place their mixture into molds before leaving to dry to create this interactive toy.

38. Ice Excavations

Lego Science Experiment

Turn your classroom into a bustling excavation site with this hands-on experience. Start by freezing small toys or objects in containers to create icy fossils. Then, provide your learners with plenty of tools to allow for exploration as you encourage them to talk about their thought process of safely removing their newfound treasures.

Learn More: Lemon Lime Adventures

39. Erupting Snowballs

Trigger your kids’ senses with this interactive experiment. Engage them in crafting these pre-made frozen snowballs before having them pour vinegar over their balls to initiate a chemical reaction that will cause their snowballs to erupt.

Learn More: Learn, Play, Imagine

40. Ice Cream in a Bag

ice cream in a bag stem activity

This edible science project is sure to be a big hit with your class. Have them place their tasty ingredients in a plastic bag before prompting them to add in ice and salt. Then, encourage them to shake their bags around as they watch their liquid ingredients transform into solid ice cream right before their eyes.

Learn More: Steamsational

41.  Glowing Ice Cubes

Glowing Ice Cubes Glow Science For Kids

Lay a strong foundation for your future scientists with this dazzling activity. Invite them to whip up two batches of ice cubes by having them put tonic water in one batch and normal water in the other. Once completely frozen, allow them to observe the difference that the tonic water makes by shining a black light on their ice cubes.

Learn More: Go Science Girls

42. Grow Your Own Rainbow

Rainbow Paper Towel Finished

This simple and easy experiment only requires a few tools, but makes for a load of fun! Engage your kiddos in coloring the edges of a paper towel before allowing them to insert each side into two glasses of water. They’ll soon see how the water travels through the paper towel to reveal a beautiful rainbow.

43. Make Your Own Tornado

Wow the kids and make a tornado in a jar!  This simple science activity is great for kids of all ages and contains the mess- gotta love that! #sciencefairprojects #scienceexperimentskids #scienceexperiments #tornadosciencefairproject #tornadoinabottle #tornado #tornadoinajar #tornadoexperiment #growingajeweledrose

In this mesmerizing experiment, your students will create tornadoes right in your classroom! Encourage them to combine a few ingredients like dish soap and water in a jar before prompting them to give their jars a good swirl – watching as their colorful tornado starts to take form.

Learn More: Growing A Jeweled Rose

44. Magnetic Exploration

Magnet Activities: Science for Preschool & Pre-K

Here’s another magnetic science activity that’s sure to get your young minds thinking. Simply invite them to conduct an experiment where they’ll find out whether different objects are magnetic or not. Split them into small groups, challenge them to make predictions, and then have them use magnets to test each item.

Learn More: PreKinders

45. Bubble Pop Or Not?

Magic Bubbles Simple STEM for kids with picture of double bubble

Pique your littles’ interest in science with these magical bubbles. Using a special solution of sugar, dish soap, and water you’ll entertain them with these super strong bubbles that are virtually unpoppable!

Learn More: Team Cartright

46. Cloud Scout

How to make a cloud viewer

In this engaging activity, your class will explore the skies as you teach them about different clouds. Simply have them put together this adorable Cloud Spotter tool before you prompt them to raise it to the skies and identify various cloud types.

Learn More: Red Ted Art 

47. Make Your Own Spectroscope

Rainbow Science for Kids: Homemade Spectroscope using a paper towel roll and a CD. Such a fun way to explore light! ~ BuggyandBuddy.com

Treat your young minds to a new science tool by having them create spectroscopes. Challenge them to put their instrument together by having them use recycled materials. You’ll then invite them to gaze through their contraption as you introduce them to the science behind light and prisms.

Learn More: Buggy and Buddy

48. Explore Your Food

exploring seeds in foods we eat preschool activity

Dive into this food adventure as you invite your little learners to learn more about the foods we eat. Challenge them to sort and classify seeds that can be found in different fruits and vegetables. While they’re busy, you can even engage them in a discussion about which seeds are safe to eat and which seeds are not.

Learn More: Preschool Toolkit

49. Instant Ice

Hot Ice Science Experiment

Your kiddos will learn about the movement of energy between solids, liquids, and gasses in this magical experiment. Task them with combining baking soda and vinegar to create sodium acetate, also known as hot ice. Afterward, have them pour this solution on a flat surface to leave behind a solid trail of instant ice!

Learn More: Frugal Fun 4 Boys

50. Parachute Experiments

In this interactive project, you’ll challenge your little brainiacs to create DIY parachutes. Invite them to piece together their craft using plastic garbage bags, string, and plastic cups. Then, encourage them to test their designs in different wind conditions while also amping up the challenge by adding on differing weights

Learn More: Deceptively Educational

51. Model of the Heart

Want to help your kids understand more about how the human heart works? Make this simple heart model that really pumps 'blood'! Wow your kids with this easy science experiment. #STEMActivity #ScienceActivity #Cardiovascular #Anatomy #HeartPump #HeartModel Team-Cartwright.com

This captivating craft is great for engaging your kids in a human body unit. Using simple materials, they’ll create a makeshift heart before you task them with physically pumping their contraption to observe how the heart works to pump blood throughout our bodies.

52. Static Butterflies

science experiments preschool

While your preschoolers may not understand all the details behind static electricity, this creative project provides a fantastic way to introduce them to the basics. Using construction paper, task them with gluing a butterfly body onto cardboard before adding on some tissue paper wings. Afterward, allow them to rub a balloon on various materials to see if they’ve generated enough electricity to move their butterfly’s wings. 

Learn More: I Heart Crafty Things

53. Pumpkin Exploration

pumpkin science sorting activity.   Kids can sort seeds, pulp, and flesh.

Lead your pupils into a scientific exploration of a pumpkin, perfect for a Halloween-themed science lesson. Engage them in analyzing different parts of these iconic and spooky decorations, from seeds to fibrous strands and flesh.

Learn More: Early Learning Ideas

54. Make Rain in a Jar

How Clouds Make Rain

In this captivating activity, you’ll entertain your children with science as you have them create rain in a jar. Simply prompt them to fill their jars with water before covering it with a layer of shaving cream to create clouds. Then, invite them to drop blue food coloring over the shaving cream and watch as the color seeps through the clouds and into the water.

Learn More: Mrs. Jones’ Creation Station

55. Leaf Breathing

How do plants breathe? An easy science activity for kids that shows photosynthesis and transpiration

Did your kiddos know that leaves can breathe? In this activity, you’ll introduce them to the science behind photosynthesis by first having them place leaves in water. They’ll soon begin to notice little air bubbles forming, sparking a discussion on how plants are able to turn carbon dioxide into oxygen.

Learn More: KC Adventures

56. Water Candle Experiment 

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Walk your preschoolers through the scientific method with this hands-on experiment. Invite them to place a lit candle on a layer of colored water. Then, allow them to provide you with hypotheses of what they think will happen when you place a jar over the candle.

57. Sink or Float in Your Cork Boat

DIY cork boats make a fun pirate themed party craft.

Treat your students to this hands-on experience as you task them with building unsinkable boats! Challenge them to use cork and other materials to build their boats before you invite them to set sail as they test their designs out on the water.

Learn More: 2 Paws Designs

58. Pencil Bag Magic

Pencil in Water Bag Experiment

Entertain your class with this captivating optical illusion! Start by having them fill zipper bags with water before sealing. Then, arm them with sharpened pencils and invite them to quickly poke them through their bags. It’s a great way to engage them in some scientific magic as you prompt a discussion of how the pencils and plastic work together to stop any leaks.

Learn More: Hello Wonderful

59. Melt Your Colors

Sun Melted Crayon Art for Kids Inspired by 101 Kids Activities!

Here’s another activity that’s perfect for a states of matter lesson. Allow your kids to place old crayon chunks onto a piece of cardboard before having them place their designs in the sun. As the sun starts to heat up the crayons they’ll eventually start to melt – turning solid to liquid and also creating great examples of thermal artwork.

60. Seasons Themed Sensory Bottles

science experiments preschool

This creative project makes a great craft to end off lessons on seasons and weather. Invite your children to put together their very own sensory bottles by first prompting them to pick a theme. They’ll then fill their bottles with food coloring and little decorations to mimic the characteristics of their chosen season or weather pattern.

Learn More: Tea in the Wild

61. Make Your Own Dinosaur Fossils

Salt dough dinosaur fossils craft for kids

Inspire the future archeologists in your class with this fossil-making activity. Task them with pressing small dinosaur toys into salt dough before gently lifting up to reveal their impressions. You’ll then place their fossil discs in the oven to set their dino prints in stone.

Learn More: Make Life Lovely

62. Magic Milk Experiment

The Magic Milk Science Experiment is a fun and simple experiment for Kids of all ages. It's an excellent Science idea for preschoolers and Kindergarten as an introduction to learning Chemistry. This color changing milk experiment is guaranteed to become one of your favorite Science activities for kids

Art and science combine in this whimsical activity! Start by filling a bowl with milk before encouraging your preschoolers to drop in some food coloring. Then, allow them to use cotton buds to swirl the colors around to create a colorful tapestry of fluid patterns.

  • Grades 6-12
  • School Leaders

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72 Easy Science Experiments Using Materials You Already Have On Hand

Because science doesn’t have to be complicated.

Easy science experiments including a "naked" egg and "leakproof" bag

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.

Skittles form a circle around a plate. The colors are bleeding toward the center of the plate. (easy science experiments)

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

Colorful rock candy on wooden sticks

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.

Girl making an enormous bubble with string and wire

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

Plastic bag full of water with pencils stuck through it

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

Several apple slices are shown on a clear plate. There are cards that label what they have been immersed in (including salt water, sugar water, etc.) (easy science experiments)

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

Mason jars stacked with their mouths together, with one color of water on the bottom and another color on top

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

Clear cylinder layered with various liquids in different colors

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

Giant carbon snake growing out of a tin pan full of sand

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.

Two children are shown (without faces) bouncing balls on a white table

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

Pink sidewalk chalk stick sitting on a paper towel

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

Science student holding a raw egg without a shell

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!

Student using a series of test tubes filled with pink liquid

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

Pennies in small cups of liquid labeled coca cola, vinegar + salt, apple juice, water, catsup, and vinegar. Text reads Cleaning Coins Science Experiment. Step by step procedure and explanation.

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

Glass bottle with bowl holding three eggs, small glass with matches sitting on a box of matches, and a yellow plastic straw, against a blue background

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.

Four colored cups containing different liquids, with an egg in each

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.

I Love You written in lemon juice on a piece of white paper, with lemon half and cotton swabs

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.

Students looking surprised as foamy liquid shoots up out of diet soda bottles

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

Empty tea bags burning into ashes

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

Magic Milk Experiment How to Plus Free Worksheet

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

Two side-by-side shots of an upside-down glass over a candle in a bowl of water, with water pulled up into the glass in the second picture

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

Glasses filled with colored water, with paper towels running from one to the next

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

A pink balloon has a face drawn on it. It is hovering over a plate with salt and pepper on it

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

DIY compass made from a needle floating in water

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!

A large piece of cardboard has a white circle in the center with a pencil standing upright in the middle of the circle. Rocks are on all four corners holding it down.

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.

Steel wool sitting in an aluminum tray. The steel wool appears to be on fire.

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.

Colored water in a vortex in a plastic bottle

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

Homemade barometer using a tin can, rubber band, and ruler

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

A child holds up a pice of ice to their eye as if it is a magnifying glass. (easy science experiments)

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

Piece of twine stuck to an ice cube

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

Drawing of a hand with the thumb up and a glass of water

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!

Square dish filled with water and glitter, showing how a drop of dish soap repels the glitter

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

Plastic bag with clouds and sun drawn on it, with a small amount of blue liquid at the bottom

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

Plastic zipper bag tied around leaves on a tree

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

Students sit around a table that has a tin pan filled with blue liquid wiht a feather floating in it (easy science experiments)

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

Sixth grade student holding model lungs and diaphragm made from a plastic bottle, duct tape, and balloons

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

Child pouring vinegar over a large rock in a bowl

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

Plastic bottle converted to a homemade rain gauge

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

Pile of different colored towels pushed together to create folds like mountains

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

Layers of differently colored playdough with straw holes punched throughout all the layers

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

Science student poking holes in the bottom of a paper cup in the shape of a constellation

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

Glass jar of water with shaving cream floating on top, with blue food coloring dripping through, next to a can of shaving cream

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.

Edible DNA model made with Twizzlers, gumdrops, and toothpicks

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.

DIY smartphone amplifier made from paper cups

59. Craft smartphone speakers

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

Learn more: Smartphone Speakers

Car made from cardboard with bottlecap wheels and powered by a blue balloon

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

Miniature Ferris Wheel built out of colorful wood craft sticks

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

Student building a roller coaster of drinking straws for a ping pong ball (Fourth Grade Science)

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

Outside Science Solar Oven Desert Chica

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

Mini Da Vinci bridge made of pencils and rubber bands

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.

Student standing on top of a structure built from cardboard sheets and paper cups

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

Child standing on a stepladder dropping a toy attached to a paper parachute

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

Students balancing a textbook on top of a pyramid of rolled up newspaper

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

Plastic cup with rubber bands stretched across the opening

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

Science student pouring water over a cupcake wrapper propped on wood craft sticks

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

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Science doesn't have to be complicated! Try these easy science experiments using items you already have around the house or classroom.

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Helping Your Baby Reach Greater Wonders

7 Engaging Science Experiments for Curious Preschoolers

Kelly O'Lone

  • Preschool science experiments help young kids learn patience, perseverance, and critical thinking skills. 
  • Science experiments teach kids different scientific concepts while promoting scientific literacy.
  • Children are naturally curious, so introducing them to science experiments at a young age is a fantastic idea. 

My kids love science experiments, and they helped get us through those long at-home days during the pandemic. Science activities for preschoolers are a great way to teach kids about the world around them and allow them to think outside the box.

Engaging in fun preschool science experiments is a great way to introduce kids to science concepts like chemical reactions and scientific principles. 

Plus, science experiments encourage kids to look at the world differently and are a creative way to spark curiosity. 

Science experiments for preschoolers don’t have to be complicated, and you’ll usually have all the supplies already. But don’t let your kids have all the fun; I promise you’ll enjoy these preschool science activities, too!

Experiment 1: Rainbow Walking Water  

Walking Water Collage

I took advantage of one of my favorite science activities when my kids had the day off from school. Rainbow Walking Water is a fun experiment that helps teach preschoolers about primary and secondary colors.

This experiment is also a great way to introduce the idea of capillary action, which is how water can move up against the force of gravity through a tube or something porous (like the paper towel). This is the same way that water moves up through a plants roots.

Materials Needed:

  • Food coloring (red, blue, and yellow)
  • Clear plastic cups
  • Paper towels 

Steps for Rainbow Walking Water:

  • Line seven cups in a row, filling every other cup with about ¾ cup of water. (The plastic cups I had were taller, so I added extra water.)
  • Next, add five drops of red food coloring to the first and last cup. Stir the water and food coloring to mix it up.
  • Then, add five drops of yellow food coloring to the third cup. 
  • Lastly, add five drops of blue food coloring to the fifth cup. 
  • Fold a half sheet of a paper towel in half lengthwise and then again.
  • Finally, place half of a paper towel in one cup, allowing the other half to lie in the next cup. You’ll continue draping the paper towels over each cup until the seventh cup. 

This experiment requires some patience on the child’s side because it takes time for the color to creep up the paper towel and into the empty cup. My daughter went off and played and would return to check on it. 

However, your kids will enjoy watching the colorful surprise as each color goes from one cup to the next via the paper towels. You can also let your kids write down what they observed in the science experiment, including what happens when the primary colors mix. 

  • It’s best to use select-a-size paper towels or cut regular-sized ones in half. 
  • While waiting for the experiment to complete, your child can practice mixing colors with the food coloring and water in separate cups. 

Experiment 2: Volcano Eruption

Volcano Collage

This classic science activity uses baking soda and vinegar to create a mini volcano. Since baking soda and vinegar aren’t harsh chemicals, you don’t have to worry about your little ones’ hands getting wet.

The volcano eruption is an excellent preschool science experiment introducing the concept of chemical reactions. You can explain to your kids that a chemical reaction occurs when baking soda and vinegar create the gas carbon dioxide. 

What I loved about this experiment was that my 7-year-old son wanted to design his own volcano when we were finished. It’s amazing how science can spark such creativity. 

We also did this experiment more than once since each of my kids wanted a turn. 

  • Baking Soda
  • Jar or bottle 

You can also add food coloring and dish soap for a more “explosive” reaction. 

Steps for Volcano Eruption:

  • Put ½ cup baking soda in the bottle 
  • Pour a cup of vinegar in (The more vinegar, the bigger the eruption)
  • Enjoy the eruption! 
  • Perform the experiment on a plate, a plastic bin, or a sink for easy cleanup. 

Experiment 3: Magnetic Exploration

Young girl play magical magnet experiments at home for homeschool.

Using different objects, kids can learn about which items are magnetic and record their observations. Kids can learn about the basic understanding of magnetism and the development of categorization skills. 

Magnetic Exploration is a great science activity for kids at home because you can have them search around to find magnetic objects to test. 

In addition to magnetic items, find non-magnetic things like crayons or pencils so your child can see the difference when testing. 

  • Various magnets (bar, ring, horseshoe, etc.)
  • Non-magnetic items (crayons, pencils, markers)
  • Keep an eye on little ones to ensure they don’t put anything in their mouth. 

Experiment 4: Sink or Float

Sink or Float

Sink or float is a fun science experiment introducing young children to buoyancy and density. While preschoolers might not know the big words, they’ll soon learn what makes something float or sink. 

Sink or Float is an easy science experiment, using only a sink or large tub and items around the house . You can have your kids guess what they think will sink or float, which helps introduce hypothesis testing and validation.

While water experiments can get messy, they are also more fun for young kids. My boys thoroughly enjoyed running around the house to find objects to test. 

  • A large basin of water (sink or tub)
  • Various items to test (cork, plastic toys, metal objects, popsicle sticks, etc.)
  • Don’t fill your sink or tub to the top. This will help prevent making a mess. 

Experiment 5: Make a Solar Oven 

Making Oven Collage

You can wow kids with this easy experiment! Learning how to make a solar oven is easier than you think, and it’s also one of my son’s favorite science experiments. 

There are several ways to create a solar oven, but the steps here are for a more straightforward one with preschoolers in mind. 

Solar ovens work best on a hot day, so this is one of the best easy preschool science experiments for a summer day. Our chocolate melted fast, so don’t leave it outside too long! My boys thoroughly enjoyed eating the end product. 

  • Pizza box or shoe box
  • Aluminum foil 
  • Chocolate pieces 
  • Black construction paper 
  • Glue stick or tape
  • Plastic wrap 
  • Skewer or ruler 

Steps to Make a Solar Oven:

  • I used a shoe box and cut the sides of the top off to make it easier to assemble. 
  • Next, attach aluminum foil to the inside of the flap on top with tape or glue. 
  • I laid the black construction paper on the bottom of the box and added the chocolate pieces. (Of course, my kids asked if they could eat them once they melted.)
  • Tape or glue the plastic wrap in the opening above your black construction paper. 
  • Prop the aluminum foil piece up with your skewer or ruler. 
  • Set outside directly in the sun (preferably on a hot day) and watch your chocolate melt! 
  • This solar oven works best on a hot day; otherwise, you’ll likely be waiting a while for things to melt. 
  • While your kids wait for the chocolate to melt, discuss how the sun is a heat source and why it won’t work as well on a cloudy day. 

Experiment 6: Easy Bubble Solution

Two little boys making experiment with colorful soap bubbles and water.

While you can buy bubbles at the store, creating bubble solutions is a simple, fun science project for preschoolers. Also, your little ones will think it’s super cool to make bubbles at home. Remember, science activities for preschoolers don’t have to be challenging to be fun.

This simple science experiment will show preschoolers what happens when corn syrup and soap mix with the water. Have your little ones predict what will happen before you add each.

  • 6 cups room temperature water
  • ½ cup light corn syrup 
  • 1 cup liquid dish soap 
  • Empty container with a lid 
  • Measuring cups 
  • Pipe cleaners to create bubble wands 

Steps to Make Bubbles:

  • Mix the corn syrup and water in your container and let your child stir thoroughly. 
  • Add the dish soap and stir gently, not allowing suds to form.
  • Let the mixture sit uncovered for several hours or overnight before using.
  • Twist the pipe cleaners into bubble wand shapes.
  • Pour the completed solution into small cups and let your kids dip their wands to begin blowing bubbles. 
  • Mix the bubbles outside to prevent spilling inside.
  • Don’t use hot water.

Experiment 7: Make Sound Waves 

Little girl, toddler plays music with drumsticks in glasses of water in the kitchen.

If you’re looking for a fun activity for your kids that doesn’t require lots of materials, you’ll appreciate the sound waves experiment. 

What I love about this experiment is it takes a tricky scientific concept (sound waves) and turns it into a basic idea to teach children how they work.  

  • 4 or 5 glasses 
  • Fill your glasses with different amounts of water.
  • Have your child tap each glass to hear the low and high pitches. 

Benefits of Science Experiments for Preschoolers

Kid science experiment of volcano.

The best science projects for kids are a fun way to explore science at home or in the classroom. Even older kids will enjoy the creativity and hands-on learning experience science experiments bring. 

The National Science Teaching Association 1 1. Early Childhood Science Education. National Science Teaching Association . 2014. https://www.nsta.org/nstas-official-positions/early-childhood-science-education states that from an early age, children have the ability to observe, explore, and discover the world around them.  

Promotes Cognitive Development

Fun science activities are a great way to encourage cognitive development , including working on problem-solving skills enhancement.

In addition, science projects introduce children to the scientific method in a more straightforward form. A 2006 study 2 2. Koerber, S., Sodian, B., Thoermer, C., & Nett, U.. Scientific Reasoning in Young Children: Preschoolers’ Ability to Evaluate Covariation Evidence. Swiss Journal of Psychology . 2006;64(3), 141–152. https://doi.org/10.1024/1421-0185.64.3.141 by Koerber et al. published in the European Journal of Psychology found that preschool-aged children could demonstrate a basic understanding of the hypothesis-evidence relationship. 

Encourages Social and Emotional Growth

When engaging in a preschool science activity with others, kids learn cooperation and teamwork while building patience and perseverance. Children learn quickly that only some experiments go correctly the first time.

Develops Physical Skills

Working on a fun science activity encourages kids to utilize fine motor skills through hands-on activities while working on coordination and control improvement. In addition, outdoor activities for preschoolers help develop gross motor skills necessary to increase their physical skills. 

How can engaging in preschool science experiments help in developing a growth mindset?

Preschool science activities allow children to take risks while understanding their reasoning may not always be accurate. 

While preschoolers are still learning, engaging in science experiments at an early age helps set the foundation for testing, hypothesizing, and figuring things out. 

How does a hands-on science experiment contribute to the language development of preschool children?

Even simple science experiments help preschoolers learn about asking why, what, when, and how and open-ended questions.

According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children 3 3. Méndez, L. I., Lee, T. D., Hegde, A. V., McMillan, V. J., Dixon, J. B., Goodell, S. L., & Stage, V. C.. Let’s Talk: Linking Science and Language Learning in the Preschool Classroom. National Association for the Education of Young Children . 2023. https://www.naeyc.org/resources/pubs/yc/summer2023/linking-science-and-language , science talk is a flexible instructional approach that promotes conversations about science while allowing children multimodal engagement to learn science and language content and skills.

  • Early Childhood Science Education. National Science Teaching Association . (2014, January). https://www.nsta.org/nstas-official-positions/early-childhood-science-education
  • Koerber, S., Sodian, B., Thoermer, C., & Nett, U. (2006). Scientific Reasoning in Young Children: Preschoolers’ Ability to Evaluate Covariation Evidence. Swiss Journal of Psychology , 64 (3), 141–152. https://doi.org/10.1024/1421-0185.64.3.141
  • Méndez, L. I., Lee, T. D., Hegde, A. V., McMillan, V. J., Dixon, J. B., Goodell, S. L., & Stage, V. C. (2023). Let’s Talk: Linking Science and Language Learning in the Preschool Classroom. National Association for the Education of Young Children . https://www.naeyc.org/resources/pubs/yc/summer2023/linking-science-and-language

Engaging Science Experiments for Curious Preschoolers

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30 Oh-So-Cool Science Experiments for Preschoolers to Try

Science Preschoolers Experiment Resources 24 Comments

Get preschoolers interested in learning how things work with 30 super easy and way cool science experiments ! These easy science experiments for preschoolers are sure to be a hit at your house.

Science experiments are always a hit in our house! There are so many to try.

Some more difficult than others. Some are way beyond my kids.

So I put together this list of science experiments that are specifically for preschoolers.

science experiments preschool

30 Oh So Cool Science Experiments for Preschoolers

Preschoolers may not really understand the science behind the experiments. However, they can start to build these concepts just by doing these activities with you!

Learning about science begins by thinking its super cool and super fun.

Get the FREE Science Experiments Download

And wanting to do it again and again. It’s about trying and testing and observing what happens.

One thing I love about science experiments is the opportunity for failure.

If you’ve ever done them, you’ll know that they don’t always work 100% of the time. Especially not the first time in some cases.

This can be a learning opportunity for the kids. Use that!

I scoured the internet to find cool science experiments that were easy enough for preschoolers!

There are lots of just plain cool science experiments for preschoolers, but also a section of ones using baking soda. Because baking soda experiments are always, always, always a hit. Plus a lot of water experiments that preschoolers always find fun!

Try these 30 super cool science experiments for preschoolers!

Essential Science Experiments for Preschoolers

There are just some experiments that every child, and family, should try. These essential activities are perfect ways to dip your toes into science experiments for preschoolers!

Check out these super fun baking soda science experiments for preschoolers!

Easy Baking Soda Experiments for Preschoolers

There’s something fun about fizzy baking soda experiments. Your preschooler will love the extra excitement of these activities!

Check out these super fun baking soda science experiments for preschoolers!

Fun Water Experiments for Preschoolers

Add water to just about any preschool activity idea for a sure-fire hit. Try these water experiments for super simple fun!

Do you have a science experiment your preschooler just loves?? Share it in the comments!

Try these 30 super cool science experiments for preschoolers!

About Jamie Reimer

Jamie learned to be a hands on mom by creating activities, crafts and art projects for her three boys to do. Jamie needed the creative outlet that activities provided to get through the early years of parenting with a smile! Follow Jamie on Pinterest and Instagram !

More Hands on Kids Activities to Try

Using colored vinegar to see eruptions in baking soda (and mixing colors!)

Reader Interactions

24 comments.

Lourdes says

April 26, 2020 at 10:56 pm

Thanks so much for these science treasures experiments . I will try most of them . Children love this materials .

Roz Addler says

January 20, 2020 at 10:05 am

We do a science experiment that is fun, easy and produces a lot of giggles! As a bonus all of the materials can be found at the dollar store!

November 29, 2018 at 1:10 pm

You take experiments from Home Lab App in Google play?

Meredith @ Homegrown Friends says

October 6, 2014 at 7:11 pm

I’m loving this collection Jamie. I’m always looking for new ideas for my little scientists. Thanks for including our Color Changing Rose Experiment! Sharing tomorrow.

September 23, 2014 at 2:37 pm

YES!!! Such a great explanation of why to do science with little ones! :)

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science experiments preschool

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15 Fun Science Experiments for Preschoolers That Will Blow Their Minds

Ayasha Giarratana

  • FirstHeading

Why I Love Fun Science Experiments For Preschoolers

How i chose these fun science experiments for preschoolers, 15 of my favorite fun science experiments for preschoolers, 1. design your own planet, 2. build a bridge, 3. national geographic stunning chemistry set, 4. gravity experiment with a tube, 5. dissolving peeps, 6. diy lava lamp, 7. einstein box science experiment kit, 8. frozen flowers, 9. salt painting, 10. water refraction experiment, 11. snaen science kit, 12. electric eels, 13. straw rockets, 14. fireworks in a jar, 15. leak-proof science experiment, submit a comment cancel reply.

Every evening, my little one’s eyes light up with curiosity as he watches the world whirl around him.

One evening, as we were stargazing, I saw a budding scientist in my son. I wanted to nurture that spark, ensuring that science became a thrilling adventure for him, not just another dreary subject.

Realizing that fun was the key to his engagement, I scoured for the most delightful science activities for preschoolers .

Through these experiments, I’ve found the perfect blend of fun and learning to foster his innate passion. Dive in with us and ignite the scientific flames in your little one!

In the world of preschoolers, everything is a wonder waiting to be explored. Fun science experiments aren’t just playful activities, but stepping stones to a lifelong passion for learning.

When parents engage with their children in these delightful experiments, they’re laying the foundation for critical thinking, observation, and an inquisitive spirit.

By supporting fun science explorations, parents are telling their little ones: “I value your curiosity, and together, we’ll discover the wonders of the world.”

In my quest to find the ultimate fun science experiments for my little scientist, I delved deep into top activity sites.

My criteria were clear

  • Activities should captivate for at least 20 minutes
  • Brim with fun
  • Inspire those little feet to dance with excitement!

But the real litmus test? Watching my son’s reactions.

Only those activities that got his seal of approval – a giggle, a curious glance, or an eager “Again, Mom!” – made the cut.

Join me as I share these handpicked gems, tried and tested to ensure maximum fun and learning for your preschooler!

Dive into the world of discovery with my top 15 handpicked fun science experiments, designed to captivate, educate, and energize your curious preschooler. Let’s spark some scientific wonder together!

build planet easy science experiments for preschoolers wonder noggin

Ignite your child’s imagination and scientific curiosity with the “Design Your Own Planet” activity.

This playful yet educational journey lets preschoolers create a world of their own while understanding basic planetary concepts, which makes it a great nature science project for preschoolers to learn how the Earth and solar system work.

With simple materials and an ocean of creativity, your little one can craft, learn, and dream big about the vast universe.

  • Materials Needed : Craft supplies (colored paper, markers, glitter) and a large round balloon.
  • Duration : About 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  • Ideal Age : 4-6 years old.
  • Science Discipline : Astronomy.
  • Science Skills Focus : This activity cultivates an understanding of planetary characteristics, fostering observational skills and imaginative thinking.

bridge easy science experiments for preschoolers wonder noggin

Unveil the little architect in your preschooler with the ‘Build a Bridge’ experiment!

This easy science experiment for pre-k encourages creativity and introduces them to the magic of engineering. They’ll construct, adapt, and perhaps even marvel at their own handiwork. It’s a beautiful blend of art, science, and imaginative play that will keep their tiny fingers and growing minds busy.

  • Materials Needed : Craft sticks, playdough, small toys (like cars or animals).
  • Duration : 20-30 minutes.
  • Ideal Age : 3-5 years old.
  • Science Discipline : Engineering and Physics.
  • Science Skills Focus : This activity sharpens problem-solving skills, promotes understanding of structural integrity, and introduces weight distribution concepts.

science experiments preschool

The NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Stunning Chemistry Set is a treasure trove for little budding scientists. With engaging experiments and safe, top-quality materials, this kit promises hours of educational fun.

Crafted meticulously by the experts at NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC, it ensures your child delves into the magical world of chemistry, all while fostering a deeper understanding of the world around them.

  • Materials Included : Comprehensive set of chemicals, tools, and experiment guides.
  • Activity Duration : Varied, with many experiments lasting 20-30 minutes.
  • Ideal Age : Suitable for kids aged 8 and above.
  • Science Discipline : Chemistry.
  • Science Skills Focus : Encourages analytical thinking, observation, and hypothesis testing, developing a robust foundation for future scientific endeavors.

gravity easy science experiments for preschoolers wonder noggin

There’s a magical allure in watching things travel, tumble, and turn. Our gravity experiment with a tube offers preschoolers an enchanting way to understand this invisible force.

Using just a simple tube, children will be mesmerized as they discover the power and predictability of gravity, observing objects as they journey downward. This hands-on activity doesn’t just teach; it mesmerizes, making science feel like play.

  • Materials Needed : A long tube (like a wrapping paper tube) and small objects to drop.
  • Duration : About 15-20 minutes.
  • Science Discipline : Physics (Gravity).
  • Science Skills Focus : Fosters observation skills, prediction abilities, and understanding of cause and effect through hands-on exploration.

spring science easy science experiments for preschoolers wonder noggin

Easter treats and science unite in this delightful experiment with Dissolving Peeps! Watch as these sugary delights transform before your preschooler’s very eyes. It’s a magical blend of observation and wonder, all wrapped up in a simple and engaging activity.

Who knew that those little marshmallow birds could serve as more than just a tasty treat? As they dissolve and change, your child will be brimming with questions, making this a perfect springtime exploration.

  • Materials Needed: Peeps (marshmallow chicks), jars, and various liquids (water, vinegar, etc.)
  • Duration : About 20-30 minutes
  • Ideal Age : 3-5 years
  • Science Discipline : Chemistry
  • Science Skills Focus : This activity sharpens observation skills, nurtures curiosity, and introduces the concept of solubility in a fun and relatable manner.

lava lamp easy science experiments for preschoolers wonder noggin

Who knew science could be so mesmerizing? Introduce your preschooler to the magical world of density and reactions with our DIY Lava Lamp experiment, which has become one of my son’s favorite preschool water experiments .

This hands-on activity combines simple household ingredients to create a symphony of bubbling beauty. Not only does it captivate young minds, but it also lays the foundation for understanding liquid interactions.

  • Materials Needed : Water, vegetable oil, food coloring, and effervescent tablets.
  • Duration : About 20-30 minutes.
  • Ideal Age : 3-6 years.
  • Science Skills Focus : Observing reactions, understanding liquid density, and predicting outcomes in a captivating, hands-on manner.

science experiments preschool

Ignite your little one’s scientific curiosity with the Einstein Box Science Experiment Kit. Thoughtfully curated to cater to inquisitive preschoolers, this kit seamlessly merges fun with foundational learning.

Each activity is an invitation to wonder, experiment, and learn, all while having a blast! Every parent looking to kindle a love for science in their child will find this kit an indispensable treasure.

  • Materials Included : Comprehensive set including beakers, color tablets, pipettes, and more.
  • Activity Duration : Approximately 15-30 minutes per experiment.
  • Ideal Age : Tailored for children aged 4 to 6 years.
  • Science Discipline : Touches on basic chemistry and physics principles.
  • Science Skills : Encourages observation, hypothesis formulation, experimentation, and deduction, fostering a solid foundational scientific understanding.

frozen flowers easy science experiments for preschoolers wonder noggin

Dive into a chilly sensory adventure with the Frozen Flower Activity! Allow your little ones to marvel at nature’s beauty, encased in icy wonder as a great pre-k winter science experiment .

This experiment uniquely marries art and science, allowing preschoolers to explore, learn, and develop an appreciation for nature while understanding the basic properties of water and ice.

Not only is it visually delightful, but it also serves as a tactile treat, making science both tangible and mesmerizing.

  • Materials Needed : Fresh flowers, water, freezer-safe containers, and colored water (optional).
  • Duration : 12-14 hours (including freezing time).
  • Science Discipline : Physics and Natural Science.
  • Science Skills Focus : This activity sharpens observation skills, understanding phase changes, and fostering an appreciation for nature’s wonders.

spring painting easy science experiments for preschoolers wonder noggin

Every brush stroke brings a world of wonder with the enchanting Salt Painting Activity. Perfect for those springtime afternoons, watch as your preschooler’s imagination dances with the mesmerizing interplay of salt, water, and colors. A delightful blend of artistry and scientific exploration, this activity encourages tiny hands to observe, predict, and revel in the sheer magic of crystallization!

  • Materials Needed : White glue, table salt, watercolor paints, and thick paper.
  • Duration : About 30 minutes.
  • Science Skills Focus : Encourages observation and understanding of absorption and crystallization in a visually engaging manner.

water refraction easy science experiments for preschoolers wonder noggin

Introduce your little one to the mesmerizing world of light with the Water Refraction Experiment! Using just a glass of water and some printed letters, watch as letters magically reverse before your eyes.

Not only is it a visual treat, but it opens a delightful conversation about how light bends and interacts with different mediums. It’s the perfect blend of wonder and discovery, making science come alive in the simplest of ways.

  • Materials Needed : Glass of water, printed letters or images.
  • Duration : Approximately 10 minutes.
  • Science Discipline : Physics (Optics).
  • Science Skills Focus : Cultivates observation and critical thinking skills, while introducing kids to the fundamentals of how light behaves and refracts.

science experiments preschool

The SNAEN Science Kit is a treasure trove for budding scientists, beautifully combining hands-on learning with sheer fun.

Designed with preschoolers in mind, this kit makes complex scientific concepts accessible and thrilling for young minds.

Each activity encourages exploration, fostering a deep love for science and igniting an insatiable curiosity.

  • Materials Included : Vibrant colored crystals, magnifying tools, and more!
  • Activity Duration : Roughly 20-30 minutes per experiment.
  • Ideal Age Range : Best suited for children aged 4-6.
  • Science Discipline : Primarily focuses on chemistry and earth science.
  • Science Skills : Enhances observation, prediction, and hands-on exploration, empowering kids to grasp foundational science principles actively.

eels easy science experiments for preschoolers wonder noggin

Engage your little one’s senses with Electric Eels! This charming experiment is an immersive journey into the magical world of color and energy.

Watch as simple ingredients come together to create mesmerizing eel-like patterns, teaching your preschooler about reactions while promising a burst of fun.

  • Materials Needed : Food coloring, oil, water, and a clear glass.
  • Duration : Around 15-20 minutes.
  • Ideal Age : Preschoolers aged 3-5.
  • Science Skills Focus : This experiment nurtures observation skills, introduces the concept of liquid densities, and fosters an understanding of color mixing.

straw rockets easy science experiments for preschoolers wonder noggin

Propel your child’s curiosity to new heights with the Straw Rockets activity. In this hands-on experiment, little learners will marvel at the wonders of aerodynamics and force.

By crafting their own rockets and watching them zoom through the air with a simple blow, they’ll not only gain foundational scientific understanding but also revel in the sheer joy of creation and discovery.

Cooler weather is a great time to do this fall science experiment for preschoolers , because the temperature will be lower and your little one will love running around!

Prepare for a session of giggles, astonishments, and a whole lot of “Let’s do it again, Mom!”

  • Materials Needed : Colorful paper, straws, tape, and scissors.
  • Duration : Approximately 20 minutes.
  • Ideal Age : 3-6 years old.
  • Science Discipline : Physics.
  • Science Skills Focus : Introduces kids to the basic concepts of force, aerodynamics, and cause-and-effect through hands-on exploration and playful learning.

color mix easy science experiments for preschoolers wonder noggin

Introduce your preschooler to a dazzling display reminiscent of the Fourth of July right within the confines of your home!

The “Fireworks in a Jar” activity creates an enchanting show of colors that whirl and twirl, captivating little eyes and minds. While it feels like pure magic, it’s also a fantastic gateway to introduce basic scientific concepts in a vibrant, hands-on way.

  • Materials Needed : Clear jar, warm water, food coloring, and vegetable oil.
  • Duration : About 10 minutes.
  • Ideal Age : 3-5 years.
  • Science Skills Focus : This activity fosters observation, prediction, and understanding of liquid density in a visually engaging manner.

leak bag easy science experiments for preschoolers wonder noggin

Dive into this mesmerizing science experiment that combines the charm of everyday materials with the magic of polymer science. It’s simple, engaging, and offers a hands-on way for your little ones to understand the wonders of the molecules around them. With just a zip-lock bag, some water, and pencils, you can turn your kitchen into a mini science lab!

  • Materials Needed : Zip-lock bag, sharp pencils, water.
  • Duration : About 10-15 minutes.
  • Ideal Age : Preschoolers (3-5 years old).
  • Science Discipline : Polymer science.
  • Science Skills Focus : This activity emphasizes observation, prediction, and understanding the behavior of polymers in a hands-on and engaging way.

Nurturing a child’s curiosity is a beautiful journey. By diving into these fun science experiments, we’re not just playing, but lighting the path of discovery. Be sure to check out my entire list of great STEAM science activities for kids with my easy-to-use filtered system to help you find the perfect activities!

Let’s cherish these moments, watching our little scientists blossom with wonder and knowledge.

Happy experimenting to all the inquisitive minds out there!

ayasha profile image wonder noggin

Hi there, I’m Ayasha

I’m a mom of an energetic son and the creator of Wonder Noggin. I write about educational parenting tips, simple parenting ideas, and many activities to help parents nurture young minds.

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Babble Dabble Do

20 Science Projects for Preschoolers

October 6, 2012 by Ana Dziengel 35 Comments

WIZARD’S BREW RECIPE IN PROJECT #3

I used to think science was above the heads of preschool aged children until I became the science parent at my children’s coop preschool and saw just how wrong I was!  Some of the best preschool activities are science related. Preschool age children are inquisitive and open-minded, perfect traits for budding young scientists! Science at a preschool level is a lot of fun, kids are truly mesmerized by chemical reactions, love exploring nature, and jump to build things.

Here are 20 of our favorite  science projects for preschoolers:

This post contains affiliate links to products I love and recommend to my readers.

1. DISCOVERY TUBES

Adults can make these fun tube toys for kids to play with and demonstrate viscosity. Click here for the full project .

2. MILK PAINTING

This project is very popular on the internet and I can see why. The combination of milk, dish soap, and food coloring makes for some color swirling magic! You can even dip paper in the milk to make a milk “print” to keep! See how we did it here.

3. RAINBOW WIZARD’S BREW

The basic recipe for this is originally from The Usborne Big Book of Science Things to Make and Do , a book I highly recommend you have in your library, there are many more fun ideas like this one! We modified it to give it a rainbow twist!

RAINBOW WIZARD’S BREW

Ingredients:

  • Baking Soda
  • Liquid Watercolors or Food coloring
  • Small plastic containers

Instructions:

Fill the jar halfway with vinegar, then add a few drops of one color of liquid watercolor /food coloring and some glitter. Squeeze in some dish soap, stir, and place the jar on a tray. Now have your child add in a heaping teaspoon of baking soda, stir again, and watch the foaming begin! The soap makes it foam rather than fizz. To keep the reaction going continue adding baking soda and vinegar when the foam starts to slow. To make it change colors, add a tablespoon of vinegar mixed with one color of liquid watercolor/food coloring every so often. Make sure to dump the colored vinegar into the center of the brew.

Tip: Stir It! My kids discovered that the more they stirred the mixture the faster and crazier the reaction! Did you hear the screams of delight in the video?

For many of these and more easy science for kids  get our Printable Science Activity Card Pack here :

4. LEMON VOLCANOES

This easy science activity for kids also smells incredible! Make lemon volcanoes and watch the chemical reaction of citric acid and baking soda.

5. PINECONE BIRDFEEDER

These can be made with any number of “adhesives” meaning any type of nut butter or in this case Crisco! See our full tutorial here.

6. GELATIN STREAKING

This is one of those crazy fun project kids LOVE! Use pipettes and brain molds and turn preschoolers into “brain surgeons.” It’s a great lesson on colloids and a sensory powerhouse to boot.

  7. OOBLECK

AKA slime made with cornstarch and water. This is so much fun, even for the parents! It is very messy so please do it outside or in an easily cleanable place in your home. Add colors to the mix for swirling magic!

8. BUTTERFLY FEEDERS

My kids love butterflies! We have made Butterfly Feeders two ways:

Nectar Version: Instructions here.

Fresh fruit version:.

Supplies:  Small paper plate or plastic lid, yarn, over-ripe fruit, orange juice, flowers, tape

Punch holes near the edges of a small paper plate or plastic lid. Tie yarn through the holes (have your child feed the yarn through the holes for a fine motor skills bonus), then gather and tie the yarn at the top as if this is a hanging plant. Have your child pick some flowers and tape them to the yarn. Add a piece of fresh fruit in the middle of the plate, pour a little juice on top, and hang in a place where you can see it. Admittedly it rained the day after we made these at school and our poor feeder was pretty thrashed, so I never saw a butterfly actually visit it. But most of the fun is in the making!

9. DANCING SPAGHETTI

Super simple project you can do with a couple of items from your pantry. Mix water with baking soda in a clear glass or cup, and add a few small pieces of spaghetti to the mix. Then add vinegar. Bubbles will form on the spaghetti and make it “dance.” Additional instructions can be found here.

10. FLOATERS & SINKERS

Another classic experiment. Fill a large bowl, kiddie pool, or water table with water. Collect a variety of objects that sink and float. Make sure to collect objects that are similar in size but vastly different in density, like a rock and a tennis ball. Ask your child to predict whether the object will sink or float and let them drop it in the water. Have your child classify them into two different stacks, the “Floaters” and the “Sinkers.” Sounds simple but trust me, it’s a hit with preschoolers!

11. SHINY PENNIES

This is a classic experiment and one that easily pleases preschoolers. Collect dirty tarnished pennies and have the kids soak them in a small bowl of vinegar with a teaspoon of salt. Within a minute the pennies will be instantly “shined”. For an added bonus, rinse some of the pennies in water after the vinegar dip and then compare them to the vinegar only pennies; if you wait an hour the vinegar pennies will start to oxidize and turn green.

VARIATION: Experiment with other solutions to shine the pennies. You can try salsa (the acid in tomatoes also acts to clean the pennies), lemon juice, soap and water, and vinegar and see which one works the best.

12. FLUFFY SLIME

This is the best slime recipe for preschool aged kids.  USE THE FLUFFY SLIME RECIPE. It’s easy to make,  a wonderful sensory play activity, and a lesson on Non-Newtonian fluids!

More Science: 20 Science Experiments for Kids

13. seed starts.

Growing things is a very important lesson. I have done two variations on this project, one using cardboard egg cartons and the other using ziploc baggies. The ziplock bag yields the more interesting visual results and the egg carton version makes plants that are much easier to transfer to soil down the road.

  • ZIPLOC VERSION: For the ziploc version buy a variety of seeds, beans and corn work well since they are large and easy to pick up. Give your child a folded wet paper towel and have them drop a small amount of seeds on it. Try to leave some space between the seeds if you actually want to plant them, otherwise the roots will tangle. Place the paper towel in a small ziploc bag and hang the bag in a sunny window or outside in a sunny spot. Within a few days the seeds will germinate and the roots will be visible.
  • EGG CARTON VERSION:  We love this method because the egg carton cups can be transferred directly to the soil. See how we did it on PBS Parents.

14. MARBLE RUN

Another favorite by all! Don’t throw away your paper towel and toilet paper rolls, use them to make a marble run! This is great collaborative project for kids. Have children sit in a circle an invite them up one at a time to add and test a section of the marble run.

15. RECYCLING SCAVENGER HUNT

Kids love scavenger hunts. Period. If you take the time to set up one related to a specific idea it can be a learning exercise. Since preschoolers for the most part can’t read, I create visual lists with images pulled off the web. For a recycling themed scavenger hunt I divided up items into three categories: compostables, recyclables, and trash. Then I hid these items around the school and gave each child one of the lists attached here: Recycling Scavenger Hunt Sheets . They had a blast finding the items. I re-hid them quite often so they could repeat the hunt.

16. COLOR MIXING

There are so many variations of color mixing projects and kids seem to love every one. Here are three ideas to try:

  • Magic Colors! Pour water into three large bowls, then add blue, red, and yellow food coloring to one bowl each. Have an additional color mixing bowl available for your child and a dumping bowl. Give your child two plastic cups and let them experiment with taking a cupful of water from two of the primary colors and pouring them in the mixing bowl. Because the new color appears almost instantly it seems like a magic trick! Dump the third color in the dumping bowl and repeat the experiment. Using light colored or glass bowls makes the new colors more visible.
  • Rainbow Spin Mixing Using an old salad spinner you can mix colors by spinning paint! Click here for the full project.
  • Color Wheel Playdough Use red, yellow, and blue play dough to mix different shades of colors. Click here for the full project.

17. DANCING BALLOONS

This is a fun interactive project that illustrates the idea of a vortex. And let’s be honest, what preschooler can resist balloons that hover mid air? Project and video available here.

18. LAYERED LIQUIDS

What can I say, kids love mixing liquids togther! You can do this project with common pantry ingredients, messy but worth it! Instructions here.

19. SMELLY GAME

This will be either a hit or a miss in your house depending on if your child can stomach a variety of smells. Yes, there are some stinkers but also some sweet ones. It’s fun to think of things to put in the jars. An alternative is to use yogurt cups covered with a lightweight cloth or with holes poked in the lid. Then you can use actual objects in the containers instead of smells in a liquid form. Printable template and instructions here.

20. ICE  SCULPTURES

Can you melt blocks of ice with salt and warm water? This project was a massive hit at our coop preschool and has even won over some older kids as well! Do this on a hot day!

21. NATURE SHADOW BOXES

This was one of our school year’s all time favorites for parents and kids alike. Check out this post for the full directions! It will take a few days for the glue to dry but then the box can be hung on the wall like a picture!

22. MAGNETIC BOXES

Fill a clear plastic container with metal objects. We used nuts and bolts, pipe cleaners, bobby pins, brads, and paper clips. Hand your child a strong magnet and let them experiment with lifting the objects in the container without touching them. It’s magnetic magic! A great tutorial for making these is on What Do We Do All Day .

23. ELECTRIC PLAYDOUGH

Teach kids how to mix up a batch of playdough then show them how it conducts electricity!

24. OOEY GOOEY OILY ART

A hands-on exploration of  density, polarity, viscosity, and color mixing in this messy fun art project!

I hope you enjoyed this list of our favorite science projects for preschoolers! P.S. my older kids have enjoyed many of these as well!

More Science:

Love doing science with your kids , visit our companion post 20 science experiments for kids . check out our science activity card pack here.

Alexis AKA MOM says

December 31, 2012 at 5:57 pm

Man my boys would want to come live with you! Talk about some fun things to do! I so need to get it on and try some of these. Thanks!!

Ana Dziengel says

January 1, 2013 at 3:35 pm

Glad you enjoyed the post Alexis! I hope your boys enjoy some of the projects!

Diana Rambles says

January 2, 2013 at 7:44 pm

Great projects Ana! Thanks for linking up to The Best of 2012 Link Party!

January 3, 2013 at 2:06 pm

Thanks Diana!

February 17, 2013 at 8:34 pm

Hi Ana. I have a question about the wizards brew. Do the containers/jars need to be glass for the experiment to work or can a plastic cup suffice?

February 18, 2013 at 7:33 am

Hi Karen, Absolutely you can use a plastic cup. I recommend a clear one so you can see the liquids interact; also a taller one is best as once you add baking soda the whole thing grows exponentially 😉 ! Ana

kym coles says

July 12, 2013 at 5:46 pm

Thanks, for sharing, I’m going to use some of these on Monday with my school age kids

July 15, 2013 at 4:39 am

Thanks for stopping by Kym! I’d love to hear how these go over with your kids!

Ravinder Tulsiani Learning Consultant says

July 31, 2013 at 12:50 pm

February 20, 2014 at 7:03 pm

Nice experiments

February 21, 2014 at 7:06 am

Thanks LOL!

Jennifer | The Deliberate Mom says

September 11, 2014 at 3:03 pm

Oooh, I love all of these ideas. I homeschool my girls… it’s always nice to have a few extra ideas on hand.

Thanks so much for sharing this!

September 14, 2014 at 6:41 am

I’m so happy you like the ideas! I hope there are some fun ones for your girls 🙂

Hannah says

November 5, 2014 at 10:59 am

hello a question about the wizards brew…. what is dishsoap In English? I don’t know whether you mean washing up liquid or dishwasher powder please help thank you 🙂

November 7, 2014 at 6:44 am

Hi Hannah, Dishsoap is washing up liquid in America speak 🙂

Michelle says

April 24, 2015 at 7:35 am

Great stuff, thank you! FYI the link for nature shadow boxes does not work.

May 4, 2015 at 5:41 am

Alicia says

April 30, 2015 at 1:36 pm

“And as a bonus you don’t have to get into the hard explanations of what is happening, let observations speak for themselves.” That’s exactly the thing that discourages me the most when I find fun “science” experiments. Without the explanation to help kids understand the science behind what’s happening, most of the actual learning is lost. Observation only goes so far. I really like Steve Spangler because he does always tell the kids the WHY when he does fun science stuff, and he’s able to do it in simple language that even young kids can understand. 🙂

April 30, 2015 at 2:19 pm

Hi Alicia, Thank you for your comment, Steve Spangler is one of my favorite sites. I appreciate hearing your point of view and I always try to incorporate simple explanations into the projects I do with kids. But my primary goal in doing science with preschool aged children is getting them excited about the subject in general. I believe that a thoughtful, engaging experience does leave a lasting impression, especially at this age, and I don’t believe it to be a lesson lost. I can’t tell you how many children would run up to me excited to do a science project on Science Day because they had memorable experiences of past experiments. Thanks again for taking the time to express your point of view. Ana

Carrie Chapman says

May 13, 2015 at 4:44 pm

Usborne offers so many cool science books! We have this 365 Science Activities and use it aaalll the time https://h4266.myubam.com/p/4060/365-science-activities

June 5, 2015 at 6:08 am

I LOVE Usborne!

May 13, 2015 at 8:25 pm

Thanks for sharing! I can’t wait to try these out with my little one!

May 14, 2015 at 12:57 pm

These are great. I’m printing these out and saving them for my grandson. He is too young to do them now (2 weeks old), but I’ll be ready.

June 5, 2015 at 6:07 am

June 22, 2015 at 1:11 am

Lovey activity I want to try but is it normal malt vinegar or White vinegar x

June 23, 2015 at 4:27 am

Any vinegar should work but I recommend white because it is inexpensive and you can buy it in large quantities 🙂

Sean Gallaty says

July 10, 2015 at 1:16 am

These are really activities, and not science experiments.

We should demonstrate to the preschoolers what a science experiment is about, which is we take our understanding a form a hypothesis then we test it and make observations, and finally we draw conclusions based on those observations. That’s science.

The last two science experiments that I did with my 5 year old were :

Carbon Dioxide and flame.

We established the fundamental principles of chemical and physical reactions, then we discussed what we knew of the properties of combustion and we hypothesized what would happen if we replaced the oxygen in a container with CO2.

The key here is to get the child to think and follow their own reasoning to come up with an understanding of why the outcome is what it is, and ways to test (not prove, but test) these hypothesis.

First we tested it with baking soda and vinegar, and then we tested it with dry ice. For fun, we threw the rest of the dry ice into water with soap making crazy foam.

Today, we took tarnished pennies and put them in a solution of acetic acid, hydrogen peroxide and sodium cloride. Once we observed and discussed the changes we then extended the experiment by using a car battery charger to electrolytically remove oxidization from the penny and also at the same time, plate the cathode in copper.

All the while we discussed the various states of matter, what a molecule is, what an electron is and the basics of how those things interact.

I gently disagree that a preschooler’s observations explain the science. Science is practice testing theory. Without theory, it’s not science.

July 11, 2015 at 4:05 am

Thank you for your feedback Sean. Sounds like you are having fun with science in your home! My goal with preschoolers is for them to have fun first and to encourage them to be curious. I think we have the same goal but different approaches.

March 8, 2016 at 6:32 pm

Really thanks such a pretty ideas. I liked all here. Science is now more fun for kids and you have proved this in your article

Brenda says

June 9, 2016 at 6:29 pm

Would love to get the recipe for Calm Down Jars, for my autistic child.

August 15, 2016 at 8:22 am

Brenda, Here’s one recipe you may like http://lemonlimeadventures.com/lego-calm-down-jar/

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45 Easy Science Experiments for Kids

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

at home water cycle science experiment for kids

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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.

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

dryerase fish float in a shallow dish of water as part of an athome science experiment for kids

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!

eggs, toothbrushes and different kinds of liquids form the materials for this at home science experiment for kids

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

an avocado tree grows from a pit as part of this at home science experiment for kids

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

milk bottle xylophone consisting of seven bottles of varying amounts of coloured water and a metal spoon, in a row, as part of an at home science experiment

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"

foamy striped elephant toothpaste overflows from a bottle in this science experiment for kids

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

a diy compass, made as a science experiment for kids, floats in a bowl next to a digital compass pointing in the same direction

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

colored craft sticks with pom poms on top are lined up on grass as part of a science experiments for kids about chain reactions and potential and kinetic energy

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

different messages and pictures are written in different substances to test out different color changing invisible inks as part of a science experiment for kids

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

pennies sit on a construction paper bridge that spans two red solo cups in this science experiment for kids

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 »

an ice cube is suspended on a string above a bowl of ice in this science experiment for kids

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

a marshmallow catapult made from craft sticks and a wooden spoon is a great science experiment for kids

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

bubbles form on a leaf under water as part of a leaf breathing science experiment for kids

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

a hoop and straw airplane, created as part of a science experiment for kids, sits on a black background

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

a diy rocket takes off from a table, where another rocket waits, in this science experiment for kids

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

a stack of coins sits on a piece of cardboard on top of a glass of water as part of a science experiment for kids about 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

science experiments for kids   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

a salt dough circle "fossil" with dinosaur footprints, made as part of an athome science experiment for kids

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

a coffee filter flower with an led in the center is decorated with swirls of color as part of this at home science experiment for kids

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

five cups with different colored liquid in them are connected by paper towel bridges as part of this at home science experiment for kids

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

colorful construction paper painted with different sunscreens, as part of an athome science experiment for kids

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 »

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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.

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18 Easy Science Experiments for Kids

By Med Kharbach, PhD | Last Update: June 30, 2024

Effective learning is driven by a sense of motivation, engagement, and challenge. Each of these aspects is interconnected and works symbiotically to create optimal learning experiences. When it comes to science, engagement isn’t always straightforward, and many science teachers still rely on the “storehouse model” (Karen, Roberts & Malcolm, 1991 ), where students are encouraged to store facts for future use.

While the storehouse model might work in certain areas, it doesn’t enhance understanding and critical analysis. Embrace constructionist approaches and hands-on learning to help kids develop inquiry skills and explore the world beyond their textbooks.

Easy Science Experiments for Kids

Science experiments are a fantastic way to embody inquiry skills such as questioning, observing, and reflecting. These hands-on activities encourage kids to become active participants in their learning journey. By engaging in experiments, children learn to ask questions about the world around them, make observations, and reflect on their findings. This process helps them develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, fostering a deeper understanding of scientific concepts. Needless to mention that these experiments transform the act of learning from passive absorption of information to an active construction of knowledge, making science both fun and educational.

Below is a collection of practical science experiments for kids that foster essential inquiry skills like questioning, observing, and reflecting, transforming learning into an active and engaging process.

1. Rainbow Density Jar

science experiments preschool

Create a colorful density experiment by layering sugar-water solutions of different colors and concentrations. Kids will learn about density and buoyancy as they see the layers stack without mixing.

  • Age Group : 6-8 years
  • Materials : Sugar, food coloring, water, clear jars, spoons
  • Educational Insight : Demonstrates liquid density
  • Safety Tips : Handle sugar solutions carefully to avoid spills

2. Balloon Rocket

science experiments preschool

Showcase Newton’s Third Law by attaching a balloon to a straw on a string. When the balloon is released, it propels along the string, illustrating action and reaction forces.

  • Age Group : 9-12 years
  • Materials : Balloons, string, straws, tape
  • Educational Insight : Explains Newton’s Third Law
  • Safety Tips : Supervise balloon use to prevent popping near faces

3. Homemade Lava Lamp

science experiments preschool

Explore immiscibility and chemical reactions with a lava lamp made from water, oil, food coloring, and Alka-Seltzer tablets, creating mesmerizing movements.

  • Age Group : 3-5 years
  • Materials : Water, vegetable oil, food coloring, Alka-Seltzer, clear bottle
  • Educational Insight : Shows oil and water immiscibility
  • Safety Tips : Ensure materials are not ingested

4. Solar Oven S’mores

science experiments preschool

Teach solar energy principles by making s’mores in a homemade solar oven. Kids learn about heat absorption and renewable energy through this delicious experiment.

  • Materials : Cardboard box, aluminum foil, plastic wrap, black paper, s’mores ingredients
  • Educational Insight : Explains solar energy
  • Safety Tips : Monitor to prevent overheating

5. Static Electricity Dancing Ghosts

science experiments preschool

Use static electricity to make tissue paper ghosts “dance” by rubbing a balloon on hair and bringing it close to the ghosts, illustrating static electric forces.

  • Materials : Tissue paper, balloon, scissors
  • Educational Insight : Demonstrates static electricity
  • Safety Tips : Supervise balloon use to avoid accidental popping

6. Egg Drop Challenge

science experiments preschool

This experiment involves designing a contraption to protect an egg from breaking when dropped from a height. It encourages creativity and understanding of impact force and material properties.

  • Materials : Eggs, straws, tape, cardboard, cotton, etc.
  • Educational Insight : Teaches about impact force and engineering design
  • Safety Tips : Ensure eggs are handled carefully to avoid mess

7. Invisible Ink

science experiments preschool

Use lemon juice to write secret messages that become visible when heated. This classic experiment introduces children to the concept of acid-base reactions and oxidation.

  • Materials : Lemon juice, paper, cotton swab, heat source
  • Educational Insight : Demonstrates acid-base reactions
  • Safety Tips : Supervise the use of heat sources

8. Baking Soda Volcano

science experiments preschool

Create a volcanic eruption using baking soda and vinegar, providing a hands-on demonstration of chemical reactions and gas production.

  • Materials : Baking soda, vinegar, dish soap, food coloring, container
  • Educational Insight : Teaches chemical reactions
  • Safety Tips : Conduct in a well-ventilated area

9. Magic Milk

science experiments preschool

Add drops of food coloring to milk and watch the colors move when soap is added. This experiment illustrates surface tension and the properties of different liquids.

  • Materials : Milk, food coloring, dish soap, cotton swabs
  • Educational Insight : Explains surface tension

10. Crystal Growing

science experiments preschool

Grow beautiful crystals using a salt or sugar solution. This experiment helps kids understand the process of crystallization and the properties of solutions.

  • Materials : Salt/sugar, water, jar, string, pencil
  • Educational Insight : Demonstrates crystallization
  • Safety Tips : Handle boiling water with care

11. Oobleck

science experiments preschool

Make a non-Newtonian fluid called oobleck using cornstarch and water. It behaves like a solid when you apply force and like a liquid when at rest, demonstrating unique fluid properties.

  • Materials : Cornstarch, water, bowl
  • Educational Insight : Explores non-Newtonian fluids
  • Safety Tips : Supervise to prevent ingestion and spills

12. Simple Circuit

science experiments preschool

Create a simple electrical circuit using a battery, wire, and a small bulb. This experiment introduces basic principles of electricity and circuitry.

  • Materials : Battery, wires, small light bulb
  • Educational Insight : Teaches basic electrical concepts
  • Safety Tips : Supervise handling of electrical components

13. Balloon-Powered Car

science experiments preschool

Construct a small car powered by the air released from a balloon. This fun project demonstrates the principles of air propulsion and Newton’s Third Law of Motion.

  • Materials : Balloons, straws, bottle caps, cardboard
  • Educational Insight : Explains air propulsion
  • Safety Tips : Ensure parts are securely attached to avoid choking hazards

14. Leaf Chromatography

science experiments preschool

Explore the pigments in leaves by separating them using chromatography. This experiment shows the different pigments that make up the color of leaves.

  • Materials : Leaves, rubbing alcohol, coffee filters, jars
  • Educational Insight : Demonstrates chromatography
  • Safety Tips : Use rubbing alcohol with supervision

15. Elephant Toothpaste

science experiments preschool

Create a foamy eruption using hydrogen peroxide, yeast, and dish soap. This exciting experiment demonstrates rapid decomposition and gas production.

  • Materials : Hydrogen peroxide, yeast, dish soap, food coloring, bottle
  • Educational Insight : Explains chemical reactions and catalysts
  • Safety Tips : Handle hydrogen peroxide with care and use gloves

16. Bouncy Egg

science experiments preschool

Soak an egg in vinegar for a few days to remove the shell, leaving a bouncy, rubber-like egg. This experiment demonstrates chemical reactions between acids and calcium carbonate.

  • Materials : Eggs, vinegar, jar
  • Educational Insight : Shows acid-base reactions
  • Safety Tips : Handle the egg gently to avoid mess

17. Bottle Rocket

science experiments preschool

Create a simple rocket using a plastic bottle, baking soda, and vinegar. This experiment illustrates chemical reactions and Newton’s Third Law of Motion.

  • Materials : Plastic bottle, baking soda, vinegar, cork, paper towels
  • Educational Insight : Demonstrates propulsion and chemical reactions
  • Safety Tips : Conduct outdoors and supervise closely

18. Static Electricity Butterfly

science experiments preschool

Create a paper butterfly that moves using static electricity from a balloon. This experiment helps kids understand static charges and attraction.

  • Materials : Tissue paper, balloon, string
  • Educational Insight : Explains static electricity
  • Safety Tips : Supervise balloon use

For more science resources, check out:

  • 20 Amazing Science Facts for Kids
  • 15 Great Science Websites for Middle School
  • 7 Great Science Posters for Classroom
  • 10 Best Science Games for Kids

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science experiments preschool

Meet Med Kharbach, PhD

Dr. Med Kharbach is an influential voice in the global educational technology landscape, with an extensive background in educational studies and a decade-long experience as a K-12 teacher. Holding a Ph.D. from Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax, Canada, he brings a unique perspective to the educational world by integrating his profound academic knowledge with his hands-on teaching experience. Dr. Kharbach's academic pursuits encompass curriculum studies, discourse analysis, language learning/teaching, language and identity, emerging literacies, educational technology, and research methodologies. His work has been presented at numerous national and international conferences and published in various esteemed academic journals.

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10 of the Best Science Kits for Kids

young girl doing science experiment

Things have changed a lot since I was a kid. Science is actually cool now, for example—my kids actually want to learn as much about the world around them as they can, and they can do so in their home with the wide variety of educational kits available to help them learn about geology, physics, paleontology, chemistry, and other branches of study. Not only do these kits give kids a head start in the classroom, but they also impart principles like observing and problem-solving.

If you have an inquisitive kid looking for fun while deepening their understanding of science, here are 10 affordable kits to help them get started. 

Engino Stem Toys: Physics Laws

Sure, your kid can build a rocket with a LEGO set, but it takes science to project it into the air. With  this six-in-one set , your child can make a working launcher, crash test rig, rubber band car, sharpening wheel, bow and arrow, and an inertia test platform while learning basic physics principles. Reviewers say this STEM kit has easy-to-follow instructions that even elementary school-aged kids can understand.

National Geographic Stunning Science Chemistry Set 

We all made model volcanoes for our science fair project, but your kids can take their experiment to the next level with some pop crystals to make it change colors and fizz. That's just one of the many chemistry-based experiments  this kit offers, which also include building a geyser or rocket launcher. The educational instruction booklet also has 30 additional experiments kids can conduct using everyday household items. 

KiwiCo Science of Cooking: Ice Cream

What kid doesn't love ice cream? Now, with this  hands-on kit  created by the popular educational subscription service, they can make their own while learning the materials and methods involved in creating the cold concoction. The kit also includes an illustrated book explaining the science behind the delicious dessert and features recipes for different flavors and sorbet.

Dig a Dozen Dino Eggs 

Studying dinosaurs doesn't mean watching  Jurassic Park  over and over again. Paleontologists have to dig for their discoveries, and your kid can get an idea of what excavating bones is like with  these eggs  with a toy dinosaur hidden inside by using smaller versions of the same tools scientists use. My oldest son loved playing with these when he was younger, but be warned: They can cause a real mess if used indoors. 

Bill Nye's VR Space Lab

The "Science Guy" will immerse your kids in the wonders of the galaxy with a set of goggles that work with an app and smartphone. Activities include over 125 games and engaging augmented-reality experiences that show kids the universe's wonders.  The award-winning toy  also includes crafts, experiments, and a 96-page project book perfect for pre-teens interested in space exploration. 

Mega Cyborg Hand

If only Luke Skywalker had this around when his father cut off his hand! My son built  this 203-piece set (mostly) on his own, so parents can breathe a sigh of relief knowing they don't have to construct this STEM toy entirely on their own. There are no wires or electronics here, either. The hand utilizes pneumatic and hydraulic systems to grip, lift, and move objects. Most importantly, the hand only has four fingers, so your child cannot flip anyone the bird when playing with it. 

Klutz LEGO Gear Bots

This kit  explains the fundamental physics behind the LEGO Technic line with amusing characters, such as an octopus named DJ Bubbles. It includes a book with clear step-by-step instructions, which is important if you've ever tried building a Technic kit.   

5-in-1 Robot Building Set

If your little scientist wants to upgrade DJ Bubbles,  this robot set  is a good next step. They can build a Wall-E knockoff that might upset Disney's lawyers or a robotic dino that is eerily similar to a Dinobot from a particular toy robot-in-disguise line. Appearances aside, commenters love the educational aspects and quality of the toy, while some found it easier to build than others. 

National Geographic Rock Tumbler Set

If your child leans toward geology or wants to make their own jewelry,  this rock tumbler  is the perfect way to uncover the hidden beauty of the Earth. It comes with its own rocks, and while some commenters debate the quietness of the tumbler's three-speed motor, most agree it's easy to use.

Kidzlabs Crystal Science Kit

My first (and only) chemistry set was supposed to help me create crystals through chemical reactions, but it did not include instructions on how to even get started. Thankfully,  this set does , so your kids can create moon crystals and snow trees with the included materials and other common household items. You may need to supervise, though.

All the science kits:

Engino Stem Toys: Physics Laws  ($34.99)

National Geographic Stunning Science Chemistry Set  ($34.99)

KiwiCo Science of Cooking: Ice Cream  ($34.95)

Dig a Dozen Dino Eggs  ($19.99)

Bill Nye's VR Space Lab  (59.99)

Mega Cyborg Hand  ($26.86)

Klutz LEGO Gear Bots  ($21.06)

5-in-1 Robot Building Set  ($59.99)

National Geographic Rock Tumbler Set  ($64.99)

Kidzlabs Crystal Science Kit  ($14.48)

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Vygotsky Thinking and Speaking

This chapter is an abbreviated version of the preface written by Vygotsky for the Russian edition of Piaget’s first two books (Gosizdat, Moscow, 1932). Vygotsky’s criticism, based on Piaget’s early work, is hardly applicable to Piaget’s later formulations of his theories – Editor .

PSYCHOLOGY owes a great deal to Jean Piaget. It is not an exaggeration to say that he revolutionized the study of child language and thought. He developed the clinical method of exploring children’s ideas which has since been widely used. He was the first to investigate child perception and logic systematically; moreover, he brought to his subject a fresh approach of unusual amplitude and boldness. Instead of listing the deficiencies of child reasoning compared with that of adults, Piaget concentrated on the distinctive characteristics of child thought, on what the child has rather than on what the child lacks. Through this positive approach he demonstrated that the difference between child and adult thinking was qualitative rather than quantitative.

Like many another great discovery, Piaget’s idea is simple to the point of seeming self-evident. It had already been expressed in the words of Rousseau, which Piaget himself quoted, that a child is not a miniature adult and his mind not the mind of an adult on a small scale. Behind this truth, for which Piaget provided experimental proof, stands another simple idea the idea of evolution, which suffuses all of Piaget’s studies with a brilliant light.

For all its greatness, however, Piaget’s work suffers from the duality common to all the path-finding contemporary works in psychology. This cleavage is a concomitant of the crisis that psychology is undergoing as it develops into a science in the true sense of the word. The crisis stems from the sharp contradiction between the factual material of science and its methodological and theoretical premises, which have long been a subject of dispute between materialistic and idealistic world conceptions. The struggle is perhaps more acute in psychology than in any other discipline.

As long as we lack a generally accepted system incorporating all the available psychological knowledge, any important factual discovery inevitably leads to the creation of a new theory to fit the newly observed facts. Freud, L�vy-Bruhl, Blondel, each created his own system of psychology. The prevailing duality is reflected in the incongruity between these theoretical structures, with their metaphysical, idealistic overtones, and the empiric bases on which they are erected. In modern psychology great discoveries are made daily, only to be shrouded in ad hoc theories, prescientific and semi-metaphysical.

Piaget tries to escape this fatal duality by sticking to facts. He deliberately avoids generalizing even in his own field and is especially careful not to step over into the related realms of logic, of the theory of cognition, or of the history of philosophy. Pure empiricism seems to him the only safe ground. His book, he writes, is

first and foremost a collection of facts and documents. The bonds uniting the various chapters are those that a single method can give to diverse findings – by no means those of systematic exposition [ Language and Thought in the Child p. 1].

Indeed, his forte is the unearthing of new facts, their painstaking analysis, their classification – the ability, as Clapar�de puts it, to listen to their message. An avalanche of facts, great and small, opening up new vistas or adding to previous knowledge, tumbles down on child psychology from the pages of Piaget. His clinical method proves a truly invaluable tool for studying the complex structural wholes of child thought in its evolutional transformations. It unifies his diverse investigations and gives us coherent, detailed, real-life pictures of child thinking.

The new facts and the new method led to many problems, some entirely new to scientific psychology, others appearing in a new light. Problems gave birth to theories, in spite of Piaget’s determination to avoid them by closely following the experimental facts and disregarding for the time being that the choice itself of experiments is determined by hypotheses. But facts are always examined in the light of some theory and therefore cannot be disentangled from philosophy. This is especially true of facts relative to thinking. To find the key to Piaget’s rich store of data we must first explore the philosophy behind his search for facts – and behind their interpretation, which he presents only at the end of his second book [ Judgment and Reason in the Child ] in a resume of its contents.

Piaget approaches this task by raising the question of the objective interrelatedness of all the characteristic traits of child thinking he observed. Are these traits fortuitous and independent, or do they form an orderly whole, with a logic of its own, around some central, unifying fact? Piaget believes that they do. In answering the question, he passes from facts to theory, and incidentally shows how much his analysis of facts was influenced by theory, even though in his presentation the theory follows the findings.

According to Piaget, the bond uniting all the specific characteristics of child logic is the egocentrism of the child’s thinking. To this core trait he relates all the other traits he found, such as intellectual realism, syncretism, and difficulty in understanding relations. He describes egocentrism as occupying an intermediate position, genetically, structurally, and functionally, between autistic and directed thought.

The idea of the polarity of directed and undirected thought is borrowed from psychoanalytical theory. Piaget says:

Directed thought is conscious, i.e., it pursues aims that are present in the mind of the thinker. It is intelligent, i.e., it is adapted to reality and strives to influence it. It is susceptible of truth and of error ... and it can be communicated through language. Autistic thought is subconscious, i.e., the goals it pursues and the problems it sets itself are not present in consciousness. It is not adapted to external reality but creates for itself a reality of imagination or dreams. It tends, not to establish truths, but to gratify wishes and remains strictly individual and incommunicable as such by means of language, since it operates primarily in images and must, in order to be communicated, resort to roundabout methods, evoking, by means of symbols and of myths, the feelings that guide it [ Language and Thought in the Child , pp. 59-60].

Directed thought is social. As it develops, it is increasingly influenced by the laws of experience and of logic proper. Autistic thought, on the contrary, is individualistic and obeys a set of special laws of its own.

Between these two contrasting modes of thought

there are many varieties in regard to their degree of communicability. These intermediate varieties must obey a special logic, intermediate too between the logic of autism and the logic of intelligence. We propose to give the name of egocentric thought to the principal of these intermediate forms [ Language and Thought in the Child , p. 62].

While its main function is still the satisfaction of personal needs, it already includes some mental adaptation, some of the reality orientation typical of the thought of adults. The egocentric thought of the child “stands midway between autism in the strict sense of the word and socialized thought” [ Judgment and Reason in the Child , p. 276]. This is Piaget’s basic hypothesis.

It is important to note that throughout his work Piaget stresses the traits that egocentric thought has in common with autism rather than the traits that divide them. In the summary at the end of his book, he states emphatically: “Play, when all is said and done, is the supreme law of egocentric thought [ Judgment and Reason in the Child , p. 323]. The same tendency is especially pronounced in his treatment of syncretism, even though he notes that the mechanism of syncretic thinking represents a transition from the logic of dreams to the logic of thought.

Piaget holds that egocentrism stands between extreme autism and the logic of reason chronologically as well as structurally and functionally. His conception of the development of thought is based on the premise taken from psychoanalysis that child thought is originally and naturally autistic and changes to realistic thought only under long and sustained social pressure, this does not, Piaget points out, devaluate the intelligence of the child. “Logical activity isn’t all there is to intelligence” [ Judgment and Reason in the Child , p. 267]. Imagination is important for finding solutions to problems, but it does not take care of verification and proof, which the search for truth presupposes. The need to verify our thought – that is, the need for logical activity – arises late. This lag is to be expected, says Piaget, since thought begins to serve immediate satisfaction much earlier than to seek for truth; the most spontaneous form of thinking is play, or wishful imaginings that make the desired seem obtainable. Up to the age of seven or eight, play dominates in child thought to such an extent that it is very hard to tell deliberate invention from fantasy that the child believes to be the truth.

To sum up, autism is seen as the original, earliest form of thought; logic appears relatively late; and egocentric thought is the genetic link between them.

This conception, though never presented by Piaget in a coherent, systematic fashion, is the cornerstone of his whole theoretical edifice. True, he states more than once that the assumption of the intermediate nature of child thought is hypothetical, but he also says that this hypothesis is so close to common sense that it seems little more debatable to him than the fact itself of child egocentrism. He traces egocentrism to the nature of the practical activity of the child and to the late development of social attitudes.

Clearly, from the genetic point of view, one must start from the child’s activity in order to understand his thought; and his activity is unquestionably egocentric and egotistic. The social instinct in well-defined form develops late. The first critical period in this respect occurs toward the age of 7 or 8 [ Judgment and Reason in the Child , p. 276].

Before this age, Piaget tends to see egocentrism as all-pervading. All the phenomena of child logic in their rich variety he considers directly or indirectly egocentric. Of syncretism, an important expression of egocentrism, he says unequivocally that it permeates the child’s entire thinking, both in the verbal and in the perceptual sphere. After seven or eight, when socialized thinking begins to take shape, the egocentric features do not suddenly vanish. They disappear from the child’s perceptual operations but remain crystallized in the more abstract area of purely verbal thought.

His conception of the prevalence of egocentrism in childhood leads Piaget to conclude that egocentrism of thought is so intimately related to the child’s psychic nature that it is impervious to experience. The influences to which adults subject the child

are not imprinted on him as on a photographic plate: They are “assimilated,” that is to say, deformed by the living being subjected to them and become implanted in his own substance. It is this psychological substance of the child or, in other words, the structure and the functioning peculiar to child thought that we have endeavored to describe and, in a measure, to explain [ Judgment and Reason in the Child , p. 338].

This passage epitomizes the nature of Piaget’s basic assumptions and brings us to the general problem of social and biological uniformities in psychic development, to which we shall return in Section III. First, let us examine the soundness of Piaget’s conception of child egocentrism in the light of the facts on which it is based.

Since Piaget’s conception of child egocentrism is of primary significance in his theory, we must inquire what facts led him not only to accept it as a hypothesis but to put such great faith in it. We shall then test these facts by comparing them with the results of our own experiments.

The factual basis of Piaget’s belief is provided by his investigation of the child’s use of language. His systematic observations led him to conclude that all conversations of children fall into two groups, the egocentric and the socialized. The difference between them lies mainly in their functions. In egocentric speech, the child talks only about himself, takes no interest in his interlocutor, does not try to communicate, expects no answers, and often does not even care whether anyone listens to him. It is similar to a monologue in a play: The child is thinking aloud, keeping up a running accompaniment, as it were, to whatever he may be doing. In socialized speech, he does attempt an exchange with others – he begs, commands, threatens, conveys information, asks questions.

Piaget’s experiments showed that by far the greater part of the preschool child’s talk is egocentric. He found that from 44 to 47 per cent of the total recorded talk of children in their seventh year was egocentric in nature. This figure, he says, must be considerably increased in the case of younger children. Further investigations with six- and seven-year-olds proved that even socialized speech at that age is not entirely free of egocentric thinking. Furthermore, besides his expressed thoughts the child has a great many unexpressed thoughts. Some of these, according to Piaget, remain unexpressed precisely because they are egocentric, i.e., incommunicable. To convey them to others the child would have to be able to adopt their point of view. “One might say that an adult thinks socially even when he is alone, and a child under seven thinks and speaks egocentrically even in the society of others” [ Language and Thought in the Child , p. 56]. Thus the coefficient of egocentric thought must be much higher than the coefficient of egocentric speech. But it is the data on speech, which can be measured, that furnish the documentary proof on which Piaget bases his conception of child egocentrism. His explanations of egocentric speech and of child egocentrism in general are identical.

In the first place, there is no sustained social life among children of less than 7 or 8; in the second place, the real social language of the child, that is, the language used in the basic activity of children – play – is a language of gestures, movements, and mimicry as much as of words [ Language and Thought in the Child , p. 56].

When, at the age of seven or eight, the desire to work with others manifests itself, egocentric talk subsides.

In his description of egocentric speech and its developmental fate, Piaget emphasizes that it does not fulfil any realistically useful function in the child’s behavior and that it simply atrophies as the child approaches school age. Our own experiments suggest a different conception. We believe that egocentric speech early assumes a very definite and important role in the activity of the child.

In order to determine what causes egocentric talk, what circumstances provoke it, we organized the children’s activities in much the same way Piaget did, but we added a series of frustrations and difficulties. For instance, when a child was getting ready to draw, he would suddenly find that there was no paper, or no pencil of the color he needed. In other words, by obstructing his free activity we made him face problems.

We found that in these difficult situations the coefficient of egocentric speech almost doubled, in comparison with Piaget’s normal figure for the same age and also in comparison with our figure for children not facing these problems. The child would try to grasp and to remedy the situation in talking to himself: “Where’s the pencil? I need a blue pencil. Never mind, I'll draw with the red one and wet it with water; it will become dark and look like blue.”

In the same activities without impediments, our coefficient of egocentric talk was even slightly lower than Piaget’s. It is legitimate to assume, then, that a disruption in the smooth flow of activity is an important stimulus for egocentric speech. This discovery fits in with two premises to which Piaget himself refers several times in his book. One of them is the so-called law of awareness, which states that an impediment or disturbance in an automatic activity makes the actor aware of that activity. The other premise is that speech is an expression of that process of becoming aware.

Our findings indicate that egocentric speech does not long remain a mere accompaniment to the child’s activity. Besides being a means of expression and of release of tension, it soon becomes an instrument of thought in the proper sense – in seeking and planning the solution of a problem. An accident that occurred during one of our experiments provides a good illustration of one way in which egocentric speech may alter the course of an activity: A child of five and a half was drawing a streetcar when the point of his pencil broke. He tried, nevertheless, to finish the circle of a wheel, pressing down on the pencil very hard, but nothing showed on the paper except a deep colorless line. The child muttered to himself, “It’s broken,” put aside the pencil, took watercolors instead, and began drawing a broken streetcar after an accident, continuing to talk to himself from time to time about the change in his picture. The child’s accidentally provoked egocentric utterance so manifestly affected his activity that it is impossible to mistake it for a mere by-product, an accompaniment not interfering with the melody. Our experiments showed highly complex changes in the interrelation of activity and egocentric talk. We observed how egocentric speech at first marked the end result or a turning point in an activity, then was gradually shifted toward the middle and finally to the beginning of the activity, taking on a directing, planning function and raising the child’s acts to the level of purposeful behavior. What happens here is similar to the well-known developmental sequence in the naming of drawings. A small child draws first, then decides what it is that he has drawn; at a slightly older age, he names his drawing when it is half done; and finally he decides beforehand what he will draw.

The revised conception of the function of egocentric speech must also influence our conception of its later fate and must be brought to bear on the issue of its disappearance at school age. Experiments can yield indirect evidence but no conclusive answer about the causes of this disappearance. Nevertheless, the data obtained strongly suggest the hypothesis that egocentric speech is a transitional stage in the evolution from vocal to inner speech. The older children in our experiments behaved differently from the younger ones when faced with obstacles. Often the child examined the situation in silence, then found a solution. When asked what he was thinking about, he gave answers that were quite close to the thinking-aloud of the preschooler. This would indicate that the same mental operations that the preschooler carries out through egocentric speech are already relegated to soundless inner speech in the schoolchild.

There is, of course, nothing to this effect in Piaget, who believes that egocentric speech simply dies off. The development of inner speech in the child receives little specific elucidation in his studies. But since inner speech and voiced egocentric speech fulfil the same function, the implication would be that if, as Piaget maintains, egocentric speech precedes socialized speech then inner speech also must precede socialized speech an assumption untenable from the genetic point of view.

The inner speech of the adult represents his “thinking for himself” rather than social adaptation; i.e., it has the same function that egocentric speech has in the child. It also has the same structural characteristics: Out of context, it would be incomprehensible to others because it omits to “mention” what is obvious to the “speaker.” These similarities lead us to assume that when egocentric speech disappears from view it does not simply atrophy but “goes underground,” i.e., turns into inner speech. Our observation that at the age when this change is taking place children facing difficult situations resort now to egocentric speech, now to silent reflection, indicates that the two can be functionally equivalent. It is our hypothesis that the processes of inner speech develop and become stabilized approximately at the beginning of school age and that this causes the quick drop in egocentric speech observed at that stage.

Limited in scope as our findings are, we believe that they help one to see in a new and broader perspective the general direction of the development of speech and thought. In Piaget’s view, the two functions follow a common path, from autistic to socialized speech, from subjective fantasy to the logic of relationships. In the course of this change, the influence of adults is deformed by the psychic processes of the child, but it wins out in the end. The development of thought is, to Piaget, a story of the gradual socialization of deeply intimate, personal, autistic mental states. Even social speech is represented as following, not preceding, egocentric speech.

The hypothesis we propose reverses this course. Let us look at the direction of thought development during one short interval, from the appearance of egocentric speech to its disappearance, in the framework of language development as a whole.

We consider that the total development runs as follows: The primary function of speech, in both children and adults, is communication, social contact. The earliest speech of the child is therefore essentially social. At first it is global and multifunctional; later its functions become differentiated. At a certain age the social speech of the child is quite sharply divided into egocentric and communicative speech. (We prefer to use the term communicative for the form of speech that Piaget calls socialized as though it had been something else before becoming social. From our point of view, the two forms, communicative and egocentric, are both social, though their functions differ.) Egocentric speech emerges when the child transfers social, collaborative forms of behavior to the sphere of inner-personal psychic functions. The child’s tendency to transfer to his inner processes the behavior patterns that formerly were social is well known to Piaget. He describes in another context how arguments between children give rise to the beginnings of logical reflection. Something similar happens, we believe, when the child starts conversing with himself as he has been doing with others. When circumstances force him to stop and think, he is likely to think aloud. Egocentric speech, splintered off from general social speech, in time leads to inner speech, which serves both autistic and logical thinking.

Egocentric speech as a separate linguistic form is the highly important genetic link in the transition from vocal to inner speech, an intermediate stage between the differentiation of the functions of vocal speech and the final transformation of one part of vocal speech into inner speech. It is this transitional role of egocentric speech that lends it such great theoretical interest. The whole conception of speech development differs profoundly in accordance with the interpretation given to the role of egocentric speech. Thus our schema of development first social, then egocentric, then inner speech – contrasts both with the traditional behaviorist schema – vocal speech, whisper, inner speech – and with Piaget’s sequence – from nonverbal autistic thought through egocentric thought and speech to socialized speech and, logical thinking. In our conception, the true direction of the development of thinking is not from the individual to the socialized, but from the social to the individual.

It is not possible within the limits of the present study to evaluate all aspects of Piaget’s theory of intellectual development; our interest focuses on his conception of the role of egocentrism in the developmental relationship of language and thought. We shall, however, point out briefly those of his basic theoretical and methodological assumptions which we consider erroneous, as well as the facts he fails to take into account in his characterization of child thinking.

Modern psychology in general, and child psychology in particular, reveal a tendency to combine psychological and philosophical issues. A subject of the German psychologist Ach aptly summarized this trend when he remarked at the end of a session, “But that is experimental philosophy!” And indeed many issues in the complex field of child thinking border on the theory of cognition, on theoretical logic, and on other branches of philosophy. Time and again Piaget inadvertently touches upon one or another of these but with remarkable consistency checks himself and breaks off. Yet in spite of his express intention to avoid theorizing, he does not succeed in keeping his work within the bounds of pure factual science. Deliberate avoidance of philosophy is itself a philosophy, and one that may involve its proponents in many inconsistencies. An example of this is Piaget’s view of the place of causal explanation in science.

Piaget attempts to refrain from considering causes in presenting his findings. In doing so, he comes dangerously close to what he calls, in the child, “precausality,” though he himself may view his abstention as a sophisticated “supracausal” stage, in which the concept of causality has been outgrown. He proposes to replace the explanation of phenomena in terms of cause and effect by a genetic analysis in terms of temporal sequence and by the application of a mathematically conceived formula of the functional interdependence of phenomena. In the case of two interdependent phenomena, A and B, A may be viewed as a function of B, or B as a function of A. The investigator reserves the right to organize his description of the data in the way that best suits his purpose at the time, although he will usually give preferential position to the earlier developmental phenomena as being more explanatory in the genetic sense.

This substitution of the functional for the causal interpretation deprives the concept of development of any real content. Even though Piaget, in discussing the biological and the social factors, acknowledges that the student of mental development is duty-bound to explain the relation between them and to neglect neither, his solution is as follows:

But, to begin, it is necessary to choose one of the idioms to the disadvantage of the other. We have chosen the sociological idiom, but we emphasize that there is nothing exclusive about this – we reserve the right to return to the biological explanation of child thought and to translate into its terms the description we are attempting here [ Judgment and Reason in the Child , p. 266].

This indeed makes Piaget’s whole approach a matter of purely arbitrary choice.

The basic framework of Piaget’s theory rests on the assumption of a genetic sequence of two opposite forms of mentation which are described by the psychoanalytic theory as serving the pleasure principle and the reality principle. From our point of view, the drive for the satisfaction of needs and the drive for adaptation to reality cannot be considered separate from and opposed to each other. A need can be truly satisfied only through a certain adaptation to reality. Moreover, there is no such thing as adaptation for the sake of adaption; it is always directed by needs. That is a truism inexplicably overlooked by Piaget.

Piaget shares with Freud not only the untenable conception of a pleasure principle preceding a reality principle but also the metaphysical approach which elevates the desire for pleasure from its true status of a biologically important ancillary factor to that of an independent vital force, the prime mover of psychic development. Once he has separated need and pleasure from adaptation to reality, logic forces Piaget to present realistic thought as standing apart from concrete needs, interests, and wishes, as “pure thought” whose function is the search for truth exclusively for its own sake.

Autistic thought – the original opposite of realistic thought in Piaget’s scheme – is, – in our opinion, a late development, a result of realistic thought and of its corollary, thinking in concepts, which leads to a degree of autonomy from reality thus permits satisfaction in fantasy of the needs frustrated in life. This conception of autism is consistent with Bleuler’s. Autism is one of the effects of the differentiation and polarization of the various functions of thought.

Our experiments brought to the fore another important point overlooked so far: the role of the child’s activity in the evolution of his thought processes. We have seen that egocentric speech is not suspended in a void but is directly related to the child’s practical dealings with the real world. We have seen that it enters as a constituent part into the process of rational activity, taking on intelligence, as it were, from the child’s incipiently purposeful actions; and that it increasingly serves problem-solving and planning as the child’s activities grow more complex. This process is set in motion by the child’s actions; the objects he deals with mean reality and shape his thought processes.

In the light of these facts, Piaget’s conclusions call for clarification concerning two important points. First, the peculiarities of child thought discussed by Piaget, such as syncretism, do not extend over quite so large an area as Piaget believes. We are inclined to think (and our experiments bear us out) that the child thinks syncretically in matters of which he has no knowledge or experience but does not resort to syncretism in relation to familiar things or things within easy reach of practical checking – and the number of these things depends on the method of education. Also, within syncretism itself we must expect to find some precursors of the future causal conceptions which Piaget himself mentions in passing. The syncretic schemata themselves, despite their fluctuations, lead the child gradually toward adaptation; their usefulness must not be underrated. Sooner or later, through strict selection, reduction, and mutual adaptation, they will be sharpened into excellent tools of investigation in areas where hypotheses are of use.

The second point which calls for reappraisal and limitation is the applicability of Piaget’s findings to children in general. His experiments led him to believe that the child was impervious to experience. Piaget draws an analogy which we find illuminating: Primitive man, he says, learns from experience only in a few special, limited cases of practical activity – and he cites as examples of these rare cases agriculture, hunting, and manufacturing things.

But this ephemeral, partial contact with reality does not in the least affect the general trend of his thinking. The same is all the more true of children [ Judgment and Reason in the Child , pp. 268-269].

We would not call agriculture and hunting negligible contacts with reality in the case of primitive man; they are practically his whole existence. Piaget’s view may hold true for the particular group of children he studied, but it is not of universal significance. He himself tells us the cause of the special quality of thinking he observed in his children:

The child never really and truly comes in contact with things, because he does not work. He plays with things, or takes them for granted [ Judgment and Reason in the Child , p. 269].

The developmental uniformities established by Piaget apply to the given milieu, under the conditions of Piaget’s study. They are not laws of nature but are historically and socially determined. Piaget has already been criticized by Stern for his failure sufficiently to take into account the importance of the social situation and milieu. Whether the child’s talk is more egocentric or more social depends not only on his age but also on the surrounding conditions. Piaget observed children at play together in a particular kindergarten, and his coefficients are valid only for this special child milieu. When the children’s activity consists entirely of play, it is accompanied by extensive soliloquizing. Stern points out that in a German kindergarten, in which there was more group activity, the coefficient of egocentrism was somewhat lower, and that in the home children’s speech tends to be predominantly social at a very early age. If that is true of German children, the difference between Soviet children and Piaget’s children in the Geneva kindergarten must be even greater. Piaget admits, in his foreword to the Russian edition of his book, that it is necessary to compare the behavior of children of different social backgrounds to be able to distinguish the social from the individual in their thinking. For this reason he welcomes collaboration with Soviet psychologists. We, too, are convinced that the study of thought development in children from a different social environment, and especially of children who, unlike Piaget’s children, work, must lead to results that will permit the formulation of laws having a much wider sphere of application.

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US and allies clash with Tehran and Moscow over Iranian nuclear program at UN Security Council

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UNITED NATIONS (AP) — The United States and its key European allies clashed with Iran and Russia over Tehran’s expanding nuclear program, with the U.S. vowing “to use all means necessary to prevent a nuclear-armed Iran” in a U.N. Security Council meeting on Monday.

The U.S., France, Britain and Germany accused Iran of escalating its nuclear activities far beyond limits it agreed to in a 2015 deal aimed at preventing Tehran from developing nuclear weapons, and of failing to cooperate with the U.N. nuclear watchdog , the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Iran and Russia accused the U.S. and its allies of continuing to apply economic sanctions that were supposed to be lifted under the deal, and insisted that Tehran’s nuclear program remains under constant oversight by the IAEA.

The clashes came at a semi-annual meeting on implementation the nuclear deal between Iran and six major countries — the U.S., Russia, China, Britain, France and Germany — known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.

Under the accord, Tehran agreed to limit enrichment of uranium to levels necessary for the peaceful use of nuclear power in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions.

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Then-President Donald Trump pulled the U.S. out of the deal in 2018. Trump said he would negotiate a stronger deal, but that didn’t happen.

The council meeting followed an IAEA report in late May that Iran has more than 142 kilograms (313 pounds) of uranium enriched up to 60% purity , a technical step away from weapons-grade level of 90%. The IAEA said this was an increase of over 20 kilograms (45 pounds) from February.

The IAEA also reported on June 13 that its inspectors verified that Iran has started up new cascades of advanced centrifuges more quickly enrich uranium and planned to install more.

U.S. deputy ambassador Robert Wood told the council that the IAEA reports “show that Iran is determined to expand its nuclear program in ways that have no credible civilian purpose.”

Wood said the U.S. is prepared to use all means to prevent a nuclear-armed Iran, but said it remains “fully committed to resolving international concerns surrounding Iran’s nuclear program through diplomacy.”

The three Western countries that remain in the JCPOA — France, Germany and the United Kingdom — issued a joint statement after the council meeting also leaving the door open for diplomatic efforts “that ensure Iran never develops a nuclear weapon.”

They said Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium is now 30 times the JCPOA limit, and stressed that Iran committed not to install or operate any centrifuges for enrichment under the JCPOA.

Their joint statement also noted that “Iranian officials have issued statements about its capacity to assemble a nuclear weapon.”

Iran’s U.N. Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani blamed “the unilateral and unlawful U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA” and the failure of the three European parties to the deal “to honor their commitments,” saying it is “crystal clear” they are responsible for the current non-functioning of the agreement.

In the face of U.S. and European sanctions, he said, Iran has the right to halt its commitments under the JCPOA.

Iravani reiterated Iran’s rejection of nuclear weapons , and insisted its nuclear activities including enrichment are “for peaceful purposes” and are subject to “robust verification and monitoring” by the IAEA.

The Iranian ambassador strongly endorsed the JCPOA, calling it a hard-won diplomatic achievement “that effectively averted an undue crisis.”

“It remains the best option, has no alternative, and its revival is indeed in the interest of all of its participants,” he said. “Our remedial measures are reversible if all sanctions are lifted fully and verifiably.”

But France, Germany and the UK said some of Iran’s nuclear advances are irreversible.

Russia’s U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said U.S. promises “to abandon the policy of maximum pressure on Tehran and to return to the nuclear deal remained empty words.”

He accused some other JCPOA parties, which he didn’t name, of “doing everything possible to continuously rock the boat, jettisoning opportunities for the implementation of the nuclear deal.”

Nebenzia urged the European parties to the agreement and the United States to return to the negotiating table in Vienna and “demonstrate their commitment to the objective of restoration of the nuclear deal.”

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, the coordinator of the JCPOA, said the compromise text he put forward two years ago for the U.S. to return to the JCPOA and for Iran to resume full implementation of the agreement remains on the table.

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COMMENTS

  1. 45 Simple and Fun Science Activities for Preschoolers

    Preschool science experiments often include a combination of baking soda and vinegar like this one. Fill muffin tins with a drop of food coloring, then top it with baking soda. Finally, let kids squirt in vinegar to reveal fabulous foamy hues! (Be sure to wear eye protection for this one.)

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    Each unit contains approximately 15 activities, with instructions and templates as needed. Hands-on activities are provided to keep it fun and exciting. This includes sensory bins, experiments, games, and more! Easy supplies keep it low-cost, and book suggestions add learning time. Spring Slime Recipe with Flower Confetti.

  3. 40 Fun & Easy Preschool Science Experiments

    4. Ice Cream in a Bag. The "Ice Cream in a Bag" experiment is a delightful preschool science activity combining hands-on fun and a tasty treat. Learn more: Ice Cream in a Bag. 5. Magic Milk. The "Magic Milk" experiment with fizzing milk is a captivating preschool science activity that combines chemistry and visual spectacle.

  4. 30 Amazing Science Activities for Preschoolers

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  5. 30+ Simple and Fun Preschool Science Activities

    These preschool science activities are sure to be a big hit with little learners and perfect for encouraging budding scientists. Preschoolers are curious and inquisitive little learners which means they are always game for a great science experiment! Science is a magical thing. It is best enjoyed when it is child-led and hands-on, which is ...

  6. 18 Easy Science Experiments Perfect for Preschoolers

    Easy Science Experiments for Preschoolers #1. Ice and Salt Experiment. Image: Learning & Exploring Through Play. I think I enjoyed this fascinating salt and ice experiment just as much as Little N (toddler)! As you observe the salt melting craters into the ice, that's where the colouring seeps through and creates beautiful coloured tunnels.

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    Nature science experiments for preschoolers offer a gateway to Earth's many wonders for our little explorers. They get to touch, feel, and marvel at the world around them and seamlessly learn about Earth Sciences. Delighting in the rustle of leaves or the texture of the soil, they're naturally grasping science concepts.

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    Free Science Activities for Preschool. The following science activities from Science Buddies' library of STEM Activities for Kids are perfect for letting preschool kids get hands-on with science:. Make a Lemon Volcano: combine baking soda with lemon (citric acid) to create a bubbling volcano.; Elephant Toothpaste: mix water and dry yeast with hydrogen peroxide and dish soap to create a fun ...

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    This is one of my favorite simple science experiments for preschoolers because it is easy to set up and kiddos can have fun for a long time! Materials Needed: Cushions, pillows, and any safe household items to jump onto. Duration: Approximately 20-30 minutes. Ideal Age: Kindergarten (4-6 years old).

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    Science activities for preschoolers. Each of the activities listed below is designed to be fun, engaging, and packed with learning opportunities that introduce basic scientific concepts in a way that's accessible and exciting for young learners. 1. Grow a rainbow.

  12. 25 Fun, Easy and Engaging Science Activities for Preschoolers

    Magic Milk. In this captivating Magic Milk science experiment, preschoolers create an explosion of color as they use soap to disrupt the milk's surface tension. It's a fantastic way to teach about chemical reactions and surface tension in a mesmerizing way. Play with the fat content of your milk to create new reactions.

  13. 62 Preschool Science Activities: Experiments, Challenges, And Crafts

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  14. 70 Easy Science Experiments Using Materials You Already Have

    Go Science Kids. 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.

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    Experiment 4: Sink or Float. Sink or float is a fun science experiment introducing young children to buoyancy and density. While preschoolers might not know the big words, they'll soon learn what makes something float or sink. Sink or Float is an easy science experiment, using only a sink or large tub and items around the house.

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    30 Oh So Cool Science Experiments for Preschoolers. Preschoolers may not really understand the science behind the experiments. However, they can start to build these concepts just by doing these activities with you! Learning about science begins by thinking its super cool and super fun. Get the FREE Science Experiments Download.

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    Preschool Science. Help kids learn to think critically and make observations about the world around them by trying some easy science experiments for kids.We have lots of simple science experiments for young children to try that will WOW, delight, engage, and teach all the same time. Most of these preschool science activities use common household objects so they are quick to try.

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    11. SNAEN Science Kit. The SNAEN Science Kit is a treasure trove for budding scientists, beautifully combining hands-on learning with sheer fun. Designed with preschoolers in mind, this kit makes complex scientific concepts accessible and thrilling for young minds.

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    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 ...

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  24. Growing Tree Daycare

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  26. 2.The Problem of Speech and Thinking in Piaget's Theory

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