Whether the word “science” gets you excited or triggers flashbacks of high school chemistry class, there’s no denying it plays a huge role in our lives. But science is more than just memorizing the periodic table—it’s about asking questions and exploring the world around us.

Science helps kids develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills and can majorly boost their confidence. Asking “why” and “how” can spark your kid’s curiosity, and if your child is anything like mine, these questions are already part of their vocabulary. 

The best part? You don’t need a fancy lab coat or expensive science equipment. You can whip up some mind-blowing experiments using a few everyday household items that will get your kids excited about science and eager to learn more. Plus, you get to spend some extra time with them too. 

Start by finding out what your kids are learning in school. What cool stuff did they learn in science class this year? Which topics make their eyes light up, and which make them want to snooze? Once you get the scoop, avoid the boring stuff and find hands-on experiments to bring those fun topics to life at home. 

Younger, school-aged kiddos will love simple experiments with materials you already have at home. Try the naked egg experiment, or take science outside with water experiments like building a raft for their dolls and action figures. My son loves any STEM activity, so we’re definitely trying some of these STEM science experiments! 

Getting your teenagers on board with learning outside of the classroom can be a little more challenging. We suggest more complex experiments like building a baking soda bottle rocket, generating electricity with salty circuits, using a simple circuit to build a torchlight, or building an art robot. 

Have a sports fanatic in your home? Try to “tackle” a sporty science experiment—see what we did there? Or challenge your budding chef with a science-inspired bake-off.

Keep it simple for your busy toddlers. Focus on sensory activities like making homemade play dough, squishy slime, or satisfying snow fluff with corn starch and shaving cream—yep, that’s it!   

Your little ones will absolutely love water play. Fill a tub or bin with water and let them go to town with measuring cups, sponges, spoons, bath toys—anything safe that can get wet. Splashing, pouring, and experimenting should keep them busy for a while. It’s also a great opportunity to teach them about sinking and floating. Want to keep your house dry? The bathtub is a perfect spot for experimenting with water!

Even at 7 years old, water play is still a hit with my son. We fill up the kitchen sink and let him go wild with kitchen utensils, adding bubbles and food coloring to take the fun to a whole new level. When playtime is over, he helps “wash” and rinse everything, turning clean-up into part of the fun. It’s a win-win for everyone!

Remember always to supervise your kiddos during experiments and use these moments to explain basic safety rules, like never putting anything in your mouth unless an adult says it’s okay and always washing your hands after handling any materials.

Let us know if you try any of these experiments, and share your favorites! 

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