If you’re dreading summer burnout, plan ahead by having some easy, kid-friendly science experiments ready to go. Most use ingredients and tools you probably already have on hand. Reinforce your child’s love of science or spark some curiosity. Either way, you’ll definitely earn some cool points with the kiddos.
Science is a polarizing subject for kids and parents alike. It can be intimidating, confusing and, frankly, messy. Still, it’s an important part of a child’s education and offers parents the opportunity to connect with their kids and encourage curiosity. "Contrary to the belief of many, science is not boring facts or unpronounceable terms in a textbook," says Marci Goodwin of The Homeschool Scientist. "When parents give kids an opportunity to ask and explore and share in the process, they get excited about science and want to learn more. They no longer relegate science to the textbook."
If science was one of those subjects you feared or avoided in school, you may not be eager to jump into an experiment with your kids, but maybe you should reconsider. If you’re counting on your child’s teachers to explore all things scientific, you could be missing out on some major adventures (and quality time). Summer may be the perfect time to embrace the homeschooling movement (if only temporarily) and turn your kitchen into a classroom. "All kids need the opportunity to explore and investigate," says Goodwin. "Parents can provide these opportunities within safe guidelines and boundaries for their kids no matter where they are educated."
Given all of the amazing resources available to help parents create easy experiments at home, there’s really no excuse not to try. "Find a good experiment book at your local library that uses household items," says Goodwin. "Then, don’t do it all yourself. Let your kids gather the necessary items and put the experiment together with you." If messes make you crazy, let it go. Thinking about all of the fun you had with your kids will make cleaning up a joy (or at least tolerable).
Goodwin encourages all moms, even those who aren’t science-minded, to jump in with both feet this summer and at least try a few experiments with their kids. "Don’t be afraid," she says. "Start small and simple." Along those lines, she suggests the following easy experiments for newbies (follow the links for further details):
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