Snap Circuits Green Alternative Energy kit from Elenco has over 100 activities for exploring electric circuits and how to produce power from renewable sources. The Snap Circuits concept is such a great one for introducing circuits to children. Instead of wires, alligator clips, and battery holders, or breadboards, the Snap Circuit kits come with a…
energy experiment
Nitinol memory wire experiment for kids
Nitinol memory wire is metal that remembers its original shape when heated (alloy of nickel & titanium). Experimenting with nitinol memory wire is fun like a magic trick, but it demonstrates physical principles of thermal energy and elasticity. Safety note: Be sure to explain safety precautions to children. This experiment uses hot water. Eye and skin…
Freezer bag ice cream
A chemistry experiment with a treat at the end! Warm summer days call for a nice frozen treat for a snack. Ice cream has been made for many years and it is actually an example of some pretty complicated chemistry. Try this fun activity with children for hands-on work with energy concepts. Safety note: Be…
Germs, black light, and slime, oh my!
How are germs transferred among people? What are good methods to remove germs from your hands? These are the questions we will ask the children to answer during this fun, glow-in-the-dark activity. While we’ve got the black light out, let’s add another activity to teach about polymer science. The children will mix two solutions together…
Bubbles and heat
Energy can be generated in so many ways. Try this energy experiment to explore a chemical reaction. This experiment uses materials you can find around the house. You will mix two substances to make a third. Heat will be a factor as chemical energy. What do you think will happen when you make the mixture? Safety note:…