quick and easy science experiments for 3rd graders

14 Engaging Science Fair Projects for 3rd Graders to Ignite Curiosity and Explore the Wonders of the Natural World

The Significance of Science Education in 3rd Grade

The 3rd grade marks a pivotal point in a student’s educational journey, representing a phase of immense growth and cognitive development. As young learners transition from foundational skills to more advanced learning, their minds become fertile ground for cultivating a deeper understanding of the world. In the 3rd grade, students begin to bridge the gap between concrete and abstract thinking, as their cognitive abilities evolve to encompass more complex concepts.

4 Benefits of Science Fair Projects

What do 3rd graders learn in science.

As students navigate the dynamic landscape of 3rd grade science, they foster critical thinking akin to the problem-solving elements of the science fair projects. By asking questions, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions, students are primed to address challenges and dissect complex scenarios. Just as the projects encourage drawing insights from data, 3rd graders are equipped to unravel patterns, make informed decisions, and approach problems strategically.

My 3rd grader is doing her first science fair project, and it’s somehow one that I don’t already know the outcome for. She’s looking at how temperature affects magnetic strength. We’ll do a bunch of runs of using a magnet to pick stuff up at room temp, 1/x — Humphrey Bogart’s Hairpiece (@Onychomys2) March 22, 2023

14 Engaging Science Fair Projects for 3rd Graders

1. floating egg experiment.

Explore the concept of buoyancy with this experiment. By adding salt to water in a tall glass, you’ll observe an egg floating. Discover the science behind why certain objects float while others sink.

2. Balloon Rocket Race

Embark on a journey to uncover Newton’s third law of motion. Create a balloon rocket by attaching a straw to a balloon and securing it with tape. Release the air from the balloon to propel the rocket forward and measure its distance traveled.

The video presents a demonstration of the experiment’s procedural steps. Additionally, the experiment can be undertaken as a challenge.

3. Rainbow in a Jar

This video provides an explanation of density and illustrates the process of conducting the experiment. The video can serve as an instructional guide for performing the experiment.

4. Simple Circuit Project

This video functions as a visual guide, offering instructions that can be utilized during your preparation for a science fair project.

5. Plant Life Cycle Observation

Witness the stages of plant growth with this project. Plant bean seeds in pots, nurture them with soil and water, and observe their transformation from seeds to thriving plants.

Level of Difficulty: Easy

6. Solar System Model

Embark on a cosmic journey by crafting a solar system model. Use different-sized balls and objects to represent the planets and their positions relative to the sun. Paint and label each planet to create a visually accurate representation of our solar system. Present your model and explain the order of the planets, their unique characteristics, and their relationship to the sun. This project offers an interactive way to learn about the vastness of space and the arrangement of celestial bodies.

7. Volcano Eruption

8. homemade lava lamp, 9. static electricity butterfly.

Unleash the power of static electricity by creating a butterfly that “flies” with the touch of a balloon. Inflate the balloon and generate static electricity, causing the tissue paper butterfly to levitate. Understand the science behind static charges and engage in a playful exploration of electric forces.

10. Bouncing Egg Experiment

Observe the video to understand the essential steps in preparing for the Bouncing Egg science project. Acquire valuable insights into the necessary materials and procedures to effectively conduct this engaging experiment.

11. Solar Oven

Harness the power of the sun by constructing a solar oven using a shoebox, aluminum foil, and plastic wrap. Use the oven to heat small items and understand the principles of solar energy conversion. Delve into sustainable energy sources and the potential of harnessing sunlight for practical applications.

12. Water Cycle in a Bag

Condense the water cycle into a simple yet enlightening experiment. Fill a ziplock bag with water, seal it, and observe the water cycle in action as condensation forms on the bag’s interior. Witness evaporation, condensation, and precipitation in a miniature, controlled environment.

Materials: Ziplock bag, water, marker

Observe the instructional video to acquire valuable insights on how to prepare for the Water Cycle in a Bag science project. Discover the essential materials and follow the step-by-step instructions provided to effectively conduct this enlightening experiment.

13. Magnet Maze

Materials: Cardboard, magnets, metal objects

Level of Difficulty: Moderate

14. Edible Rock Cycle

Materials: Chocolate, wax paper, mallet

Useful Resources

In the dynamic landscape of 3rd-grade science education, the power of hands-on learning shines through science fair projects. These 14 engaging science fair projects for 3rd graders offer a gateway to discovery, nurturing curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity. As these young minds delve into density towers, erupting volcanoes, and edible rock cycles, they forge a deeper connection with the world around them. Through these projects, 3rd graders not only grasp scientific concepts but also develop lifelong skills that fuel their journey of exploration and growth. The journey of scientific inquiry has never been more exciting, setting the stage for a future marked by wonder, learning, and unbridled curiosity.

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All Science Fair Projects

1000 science fair projects with complete instructions.

73 Science Projects for 3rd Graders

Looking for ways to develop a lifelong love of learning in 3rd graders? Our handpicked list of 3rd grade science projects is designed to do just that!

3rd Grade Science Project FAQ

What are some easy 3rd grade science fair projects.

Any one of these easy 3rd grade science fair projects will teach you important scientific concepts and help you have fun while learning. An easy science fair project is a great way to introduce the wonders of science to 3rd graders!

Preserving Flowers with Sugar

Bacteria on Our Hands

Growing Your Own Yeast Fungus

Magic Milk Painting

Swimming Raisins

Making Oobleck: Liquid or Solid?

Sparkling Rainbow Crystal

Explosive Elephant Toothpaste

Colors of Skittles Experiment

Balancing a Ball in Air

Science fair project details right above the FAQ!

What is the best 3rd grade science project ever?

We love the Bacteria on Our Hands science fair project for 3rd graders. It's a great way to introduce 3rd graders to bacteria, tiny living things we can't see until we grow a bunch of them on a special plate called an agar plate.

If you're looking for more 3rd grade science projects, check out the 3rd grade science fair projects at the top of this page! 

Check out more Best Science Fair Projects →

What are some cool 3rd grade science fair projects?

Get ready to be amazed by these super cool science projects for 3rd graders! With just a few simple things, you can be fascinated by science and have tons of fun with these cool 3rd grade science projects!

What are 5 testable questions for 3rd grade?

A testable question is a question that we can answer through a science experiment. To do this, we do a control science experiment, then we change one thing in the experiment to see how it affects what happens. This is how we can discover the answer to our question!

What makes a cloud form?

Can drink and food taste different just by changing its color?

Does the color of light affect photosynthesis?

Does temperature affect seed sprouting?

What makes popcorn pop?

Here are more testable questions along with their science projects →

What are the top 10 science projects for 3rd grade?

These are our top 10 science projects for 3rd grade, with projects from Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Engineering and Earth Science. These projects can be used as science fair project ideas or as a fun experiment to explore different areas of science!

Colorful Temperature

How Soil Affects Pinto Bean Growth

Jiggly Earth: Exploring Liquefaction

Growing Crystals in Different Temperatures

Make Your Own Anemometer

Science project details right above the FAQ!

Can I do a 3rd grade science fair project in a day?

Yes! Quick experiments can be a great option for a science fair project! If you want to explore quick reactions, we have science project ideas on various topics to get you started.

Acid-base reactions: Mixing acids with bases quickly makes carbon dioxide gas!

Make a rocket fly sky high with just baking soda and vinegar! Rocket Film Canisters

Chromatography reactions: Separate out colors!

Did you know that some Skittles have a secret rainbow hiding inside them? Colors of Skittles Experiment

Heat reactions: Heat speeds things up!

Do you want to find out which color candle burns the fastest? Which Candle Burns the Fastest?

What are some hands-on ways to find inspiration for my science fair project?

There may be free admission days or free passes to a science museum near you! Check your local library for free museum passes, nearby science museums for free entrance days and your credit card for offers.

Find a science museum near you and prepare to be awed by all that you can learn there! I always learn something new and am inspired whenever I go to a science museum!

How do I start a science fair project?

What should I do after I have a science fair project idea?

How do I make a science fair board?

What is the scientific method?

What is the engineering design process?

Where can I find a science fair competition?

The www Virtual Library: Science Fairs website also has a collection of science fairs from all over the world, as well as national, state, regional, local, and virtual competitions!

Get Your ALL ACCESS Shop Pass here →

Science Projects For 3rd Graders

3rd grade science is a fantastic time to engage in various science projects that explore the living world and how things work! Below is a selection of projects and printables to explore, investigate, and discover through hands-on science experiments and science fair projects!

Science Topics For 3rd Graders

So, what exactly does science for 3rd graders look like? And how can you encourage your kids to learn without much effort, fancy equipment, or complex activities that cause confusion rather than curiosity?

Kids are naturally curious, and 3rd grade is an opportune time to introduce and practice the scientific method through fun, hands-on, and easy science projects.

Good science projects for 3rd graders help them ask scientific questions, make predictions, and, with guidance, plan and carry out investigations to answer those questions.

Topics that 3rd graders may cover in science include:

• Changes in motion by forces such as gravity and friction
• Solids, liquids, gases, and changes in states of matter
• Plants and animals and the relationships between them

Below, you will find over 25 of the best science project ideas, covering many of these topics and more.

Easy Science Projects For 3rd Graders

Click on the projects below for each activity’s full supply list and step-by-step instructions. Also, check out our helpful tips for developing a 3rd grade science fair project !

Acid Rain Experiment

What happens to plants when rain is acidic? Set up an easy science project with flowers in vinegar. Get kids thinking about what causes acid rain and what can be done about it.

Air Resistance

A quick and easy way to introduce kids to independent and dependent variables. Fold some paper and compare their air resistance when you drop the paper from a height.

A pple Browning Experiment

How do you keep apples from turning brown? Do all apples turn brown at the same rate? Grab some apples and lemon juice and let’s find out.

Use your engineering skills to come up with a cool pool noodle robot that can do art too!

Bottle Rocket

Make a rocket from a water bottle with a cool chemical reaction that is sure to send it flying! Fun chemistry kids will want to do again and again!

Coastal Erosion Model

Ever noticed what happens to the coastline when a big storm rolls through? Set up this beach erosion activity to investigate what happens.

Color Wheel Spinner

Can you make white light from all the different colors? Find out by making your own spinning color wheel.

Crayon Rock Cycle

Explore all the stages of the rock cycle with one simple ingredient, old crayons. Kids will have a blast exploring all the stages!

Chromatography (with markers)

This chromatography lab is a fun way to explore separating mixtures using everyday supplies!

D rops Of Water On A Penny

How many drops of water can you fit on a penny? The answer might surprise you! Fun and easy way to learn about the surface tension of water.

Dry Erase Marker Experiment

Is it magic or is it science? Either way, this floating drawing experiment is sure to impress! Create a dry-erase drawing and watch it float in water.

Electric Cornstarch

This cornstarch experiment is a fun example of static electricity. Mix up some goop or oobleck, and watch what happens when you bring it near a charged balloon.

Explore the molecules in water and oil and create a tasty chemistry experiment that you can pour on your veggies too!

Engineer a Roller Coaster

Dig deep into the recycling bin and grab all the cardboard you can find to create a unique ball run or marble coaster! Make it as small or as elaborate as you want!

Food Chains

All living plants and animals need energy to live on earth. Get kids thinking about how to represent this flow of energy in a simple food chain.

Freezing Water

Explore the freezing point of water and find out what happens when you freeze salt water. All you need are some bowls of water, and salt.

Growing Crystals

Crystals make for fascinating science! Follow our borax crystal recipe to grow crystals for a cool science project any science enthusiast will love!

Explore magnetism through a variety of hands-on projects perfect for 3rd grade. Our done-for-you magnet STEM pack is filled with extra projects!

Mentos and Coke

Here’s a cool fizzing experiment the kids are sure to love! It looks like a chemical reaction, but this Mentos and coke experiment is a great example of a physical reaction.

Mini Paddle Boat

Make a paddle boat that actually moves through the water! Explore forces in motion with this simple DIY paddle boat activity.

Penny Boat Challenge

Design a simple tin foil boat, and see how many pennies it can hold before it sinks. Learn about buoyancy while you test out your engineering skills.

Click here or below to get your free science ideas pack

Popsicle Stick Catapult

What kid doesn’t love to launch stuff into the air? Build a catapult from simple materials, and turn it into a fun experiment as well. Catapults are great for learning about potential and kinetic energy, and more.

Pumpkin Clock

Although this is classically done with a potato, you can definitely experiment with other foods that are similar and test the results.

Red Cabbage Ph Indicator

Learn how cabbage can be used to test liquids of varying acid levels. Depending on the pH of the liquid, the cabbage turns various shades of pink, purple, or green! It’s incredibly cool to watch, and the kids love it!

Salt Water Density

What happens to an egg in salt water? Will the egg float or sink? There are so many questions to ask and predictions to make with this easy saltwater density experiment.

Slime Science

Love playing with slime? Now you can turn slime-making into a fun science experiment with these easy ideas.

Spaghetti Tower Challenge

Build the tallest spaghetti tower that can hold the weight of a jumbo marshmallow. Test out those design and engineering skills with a few simple materials.

Strawberry DNA Lab

Every living thing has DNA and usually, you need a microscope to see DNA up close. But with this strawberry DNA extraction, you can encourage the DNA strands to release from their cells and bind together so you can see them.

Vinegar and Milk

Kids will be amazed by the transformation of a couple of household ingredients into a moldable, durable piece of a plastic-like substance.

Water Filtration

Can you purify dirty water with a water filtration system? Learn about filtration and make your own water filter.

Free Printable Science Journal Worksheets

Create a science notebook with these easy-to-use science worksheets to accompany any experiment. Grab your free science process journal pack !

Using The Scientific Method

The scientific method is a process or method of research. A problem is identified, information about the problem is gathered, a hypothesis or question is formulated from the information, and the hypothesis is tested with an experiment to prove or disprove its validity.

Sounds heavy… What in the world does that mean?!? It means you don’t need to try and solve the world’s biggest science questions! The scientific method is all about studying and learning things right around you.

As children develop practices that involve creating, gathering data evaluating, analyzing, and communicating, they can apply these critical thinking skills to any situation.

LEARN MORE HERE: Using The Scientific Method with Kids

Note: The use of the best Science and Engineering Practices is also relevant to the topic of using the scientific method. Read more here and see if it fits your science planning needs.

Helpful Science Resources

Here are a few resources that will help you introduce science more effectively to your kiddos or students. Then you can feel confident yourself when presenting materials. You’ll find helpful free printables throughout.

• Best Science Practices (as it relates to the scientific method)
• Science Vocabulary
• 8 Science Books for Kids
• All About Scientists
• Science Supplies List
• Science Tools for Kids
• Join us in the Club

Turn It Into A 3rd Grade Science Fair Project

Science projects are an excellent tool for older kiddos to show what they know about science! Plus, they can be used in all sorts of environments including classrooms, homeschool, and groups.

Kids can take everything they have learned about using the scientific method , stating a hypothesis, choosing variables , making observations and analyzing and presenting data.

Want to turn one of these experiments into an awesome science fair project? Check out these helpful resources.

• Science Project Tips From A Teacher
• Science Fair Board Ideas
• Easy Science Fair Projects

Printable Science Projects Pack

If you’re looking to grab all of our printable science projects in one convenient place plus exclusive worksheets and bonuses like a STEAM Project pack, our Science Project Pack is what you need! Over 300+ Pages!

• 90+ classic science activities  with journal pages, supply lists, set up and process, and science information.  NEW! Activity-specific observation pages!
• Best science practices posters  and our original science method process folders for extra alternatives!
• Be a Collector activities pack  introduces kids to the world of making collections through the eyes of a scientist. What will they collect first?
• Know the Words Science vocabulary pack  includes flashcards, crosswords, and word searches that illuminate keywords in the experiments!
• My science journal writing prompts  explore what it means to be a scientist!!
• Bonus STEAM Project Pack:  Art meets science with doable projects!
• Bonus Quick Grab Packs for Biology, Earth Science, Chemistry, and Physics

Subscribe to receive a free 5-Day STEM Challenge Guide

~ projects to try now ~.

• Grades 6-12
• School Leaders

Fill your classroom library 📚

25 Fast and Fun Third Grade STEM Challenges Every Kid Will Love

Creative problem-solving at its best!

Have you tried STEM challenges with your students yet? They offer students such a fun hands-on way to build their problem-solving skills! These third grade STEM challenges inspire kids to think outside the box and put all their knowledge into practical use.

We also love the fact that they couldn’t be easier to set up. Post one of these third grade STEM challenges on your whiteboard or projector screen, pass out the few simple supplies, and watch the magic begin! 

Want this entire set of STEM challenges in one easy document? Get your free PowerPoint bundle of these third grade STEM challenges by submitting your email here, so you’ll always have the challenges available.

Just a heads up, WeAreTeachers may collect a share of sales from the links on this page. We only recommend items our team loves!

25 Third Grade STEM Challenges

Design and build a paper airplane that flies the furthest possible distance..

Use 20 paper plates to build the tallest tower you can. You can use scissors, but no tape or glue.

• Stock Your Home 9″ Paper Plates, 500 Count

Use LEGO bricks to build a marble maze.

Build a 12-inch bridge from index cards, plastic straws, and masking tape that will hold 100 pennies.

• AmazonBasics 1000-pack 3″ x 5″ Index Cards
• TOMNK 500 Multicolored Plastic Drinking Straws

Construct a building using sticks, leaves, and other items you can pick up outside.

Use newspaper and masking tape to build a cage to hold a stuffed animal.

• Lichamp 10-Pack of Masking Tape 55 Yard Rolls

Use plastic straws and Scotch tape to build a roller coaster for a ping pong ball.

Invent a new game using a cardboard box and other supplies of your choice.

Build the tallest possible tower that can support the weight of a book from 10 plastic cups and 10 index cards.

• Clear Disposable Plastic Cups, 500 Pack

Use plastic spoons and rubber bands to build a device that launches a marshmallow as far as possible.

•   AmazonBasics White Plastic Spoons, 250-Pack
• BAZIC Multicolor Assorted Sizes Rubber Bands

Design and build a floating houseboat using index cards, plastic straws, and tape or glue.

Use uncooked spaghetti and mini marshmallows to build an animal (real or imaginary).

Build a domino chain reaction that includes at least one domino tower.

• Lewo 1000 Pcs Wood Dominoes Set

Use one sheet of paper and masking tape to build a pencil box with a lid and a carrying handle. It must hold six pencils.

Use pipe cleaners to create at least 6 types of 3-D shapes.

• Zees 1000 Pipe Cleaners in Assorted Colors

Using only newspaper, build a paper chain at least 12 inches long that will hold the weight of a bucket of water.

Create a new kind of tree using cardboard tubes, masking tape, and construction paper. Be ready to explain where and how your tree grows.

Find a new use for a plastic shopping bag. You can also use scissors and 12 inches of masking tape.

In five minutes, build the tallest tower you can using only pipe cleaners.

Find a way to make a ping pong ball roll down a cardboard ramp as slowly as possible.

Use newspapers and masking tape to build a tent your whole group could camp out in overnight.

Build an igloo using toothpicks and marshmallows.

• 1000 Count Natural Bamboo Toothpicks

Design a new kind of plant using aluminum foil.

Use one index card and other supplies of your choice to design a scoop to pick up as much rice at one time as possible.

Use duct tape to design a new kind of water bottle carrier.

Enjoying these third grade STEM challenges? Try these 35 Hands-On Third Grade Science Experiments and Activities .

Plus, 50 Easy Science Experiments Kids Can Do With Stuff You Already Have .

Get a PPT Version of These STEM Challenges

You Might Also Like

50 STEM Activities for Kids of All Ages and Interests

Inspire the innovators of tomorrow. Continue Reading

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20 of the Best 3rd Grade Science Projects and Experiments

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Are you looking for science activities to do with your 3rd graders? No sweat. We have you covered. Check out our list of 20 science projects and experiments that you can try with your 3rd graders this month.

• Hand-Eye Coordination and Age | All-Science-Fair-Projects.com – Grades 2-5, Use a stopwatch and ping-pong ball to find out how hand-eye coordination changes as children get older.
• What Do Yeast Eat…and How Can You Tell? | Education.com – Grades 2-5, The objective of this project is to examine which foods yeast cells eat.
• How Do Antacids Work? | Biochemistry Discovery Lab – Grades 3-6, Simulate out how antacids work to treat heartburn by using fake stomach enzymes.
• Mice & Music | Hubpages.com – Grades 3-6, Find out if music affects the performance of mice in a maze.
• A Magnetic Primer Designer | Sciencebuddies.org – Grades 3-6 Biology project that utilizes magnets to mimic the process that scientists use to replicate DNA, using the polymerase chain reaction.
• Growing Bacteria in Petri Dishes | Stevespanglerscience.com – Grades 3-6 biology In this science fair project, you must find samples of bacteria from an assortment of surfaces to find the surfaces that are the dirtiest.
• How Does Color Affect Eyesight? | Education.com – Grades 1-5, Find out which colors are easier and more challenging to read at a distance. This super simple project requires volunteers and color charts you can print from the web.
• How Many Letters? | ScienceBuddies.org – Grades 1-4, How much memory does a computer use to “remember” a series of letters? Find out how much memory a computer uses to remember 1000 letters.
• Jumping For Geodes: Can You Tell the Inside from the Outside? | ScienceBuddies.org Grades 1-4, Can you tell what’s inside a geode from looking at the outside? Learn more out these unique rocks and crack some open to discover the surprises inside.
• How Water Beats Rock | Education.com – Grades 1-5, Discover how water is more potent than rocks.  Experiment with ways that water can break the stone.
• Soil Type and Liquefaction | All-Science-Fair-Projects.com – Grades 1-5, Experiment with sand, clay, and loam and find out which type of soil dissolves most easily.
• Effects of Temperature and Humidity on Static Charges | Education.com – Grades 1-5, Use balloons, a rubber ball, and a scarf to investigate why those socks stick together when you take them out of the dryer and how conditions in the air affect static electricity.
• Condensation and the Water Cycle | Easy-Science-Fair-Projects.net – Grades 2-4, Gather up some jars, bowls, and ice water to determine how the amount of ice affects condensation.
• Ready, Set, Search! Race to the Right Answer | ScienceBuddies.org – Grades 2-5, Find out how Internet search engines work and how you can get different results depending on the type of information you request.
• Paper Airplane Science | Easy-Science-Fair-Projects.net – Grades 2-5, Put your paper airplane making and flying skills to the test. Design and fly a variety of different planes and determine which design flies the farthest.
• Mag-nificent Breakfast Cereal – Grades 2-5, Use a blender and a magnet to find out how much iron is in different kinds of breakfast cereal.
• The Big Dig | Sciencebuddies.org – Grades 2-5, Find out which materials are biodegradable, and which ones are not. How can you use this information to help the environment?
• Weather-Related Science Projects | Hubpages.com – Grades 2-5, Learn more about the weather and other aspects of meteorology by using instruments you build. Make a barometer, hygrometer, anemometer… even lightning!
• Hero’s Engine and Newton’s Third Law | Education.com – Grades 2-5, Build an aeolipile(Hero’s Engine) to explore Isaac Newton’s Third Law – for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.  Can you predict the movement of the Hero’s Engine?
• Rocky Secrets: Where Does Oil Hide? | ScienceBuddies.org -Grades 2-5, Can you get petroleum oil from a stone? Find out which kinds of rocks can soak up and store the most fat. Learn how petroleum geologists and engineers use this information to find the best places to get oil from the earth.

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Third Grade Science Activities and Experiments

15 Super Fun 3rd Grade Science Projects

Categories Activities & Ideas

For teachers, you’ll know that there’s nothing quite as satisfying as seeing a project that you’ve organized from beginning to end become a roaring success amongst your students.

Some of the most fun and exciting projects include those which are science based, as they give students the opportunity to learn about the world around them in new ways.

The tricky part is that it can be incredibly difficult to come up with new ideas that will help students to learn, but in an entertaining way.

The early years, during 3rd grade , are the pivotal points in which students can start to foster a love for the subject.

Therefore, as a teacher, you want to make sure that you’re always giving it your all in terms of new projects and activities to stimulate their imaginations.

If you’ve found yourself a little stuck, and are struggling to come up with some new ideas, then don’t worry, because we’ve got you covered.

Below, we’ve compiled a list of what we believe to be some of the most enjoyable and entertaining science projects out there suitable for 3rd graders. So, you can simply relax, read through, and choose your favorites.

To find out more, keep reading below, as we take a closer look.

1. Fossil Making

If you’re on the hunt for a fun science project where your students are actually able to make something that they can take home, then we’d recommend taking a look at this project.

This one actually allows your students to create their own fossils, which means that they can look at these for years to come, and help them with their studies.

For the fossil making project, all you need to do is gather some natural objects. This is a fun opportunity to take a nature walk with your students, and allow them to collect various things from their surroundings on the way.

For this one, as you can see, they’ve used sea shells, which make really great indentations. All you have to do after you’ve gathered the various items is to place them in a block of clay, and fill them with glue before leaving them to dry.

This is a super fun project to do with students if you’re teaching them a lesson about dinosaurs, or simply about the ancient world in general. They’ll love making their own special fossils.

2. Salt And Pepper Static Electricity

One of the fun things about doing new science projects with your class is that sometimes you learn a thing or two as well. For example, we’re sure that many of you didn’t know about this salt and pepper trick.

In order to create this project, all you’re going to need is some salt and pepper. Show your class as you mix them thoroughly together, then after you’re done, you can go ahead and create some static electricity, and watch the two of them separate again.

This one is sure to fascinate the class, and it’s a good project to demonstrate if you’re giving a science class that’s all about electricity.

3. Color Wheel Magic

This is a really easy and fun project, and can be used either within the context of science class, or art class too.

For this one, you’re going to need to cut out a piece of circular paper, and then fill it in with each of the different primary colors to make a wheel.

After you’ve done this, you can then go ahead and thread a piece of yarn through the center.

After you’ve done this, hold the yarn taughtly on either side of the string, then have one of your students spin the wheel as fast as they can.

They’ll be amazed as they watch how each of the colors blend together into one. This is a good lesson for showing how colors can be mixed together in order to create new variations.

4. Mix Up Your Own Putty Slime

Making slime has become an incredibly popular project for both teachers and parents alike in recent years, and it’s not hard to see why.

Making slime is a great way to foster children’s fine motor skills, as well as being a good sensory activity too.

When you make slime, you can add all sorts of different textures, colors, and even smells too.

But, why is it so great for science class? Well, for a host of different reasons, the primary one being that it’s a chance to teach them about polymers.

You can have them play around with a couple of different formulas, then give them the chance to create their own variations with different properties. They can take these home and play around with them too.

5. Drops Of Water On A Penny

If you’re looking for an incredibly easy science project to conduct with your class because you don’t have much time to prepare, then we’d recommend that you take a look at this super easy project.

In order to conduct this experiment, all you’re going to need is a few pieces of spare change in different sizes.

You’re going to want to place them flat on the table, then have members of the class see how many drops of water they’re able to place on the surface of the penny, without it overflowing.

This is an incredibly easy science experiment, but it does teach an important lesson about water tension. So, if you’re struggling for time, why not try this one out?

6. Defy Gravity With Magnets And Paperclips

This is a great project to take part in and introduce students to their first lesson about magnets. In order to recreate this project, you’re going to need a few key objects.

First of all, you’re going to need 4 flat magnets, some paper clips, card paper, and string.

This tutorial shows you how to assemble a small tower on both ends with multicolored card paper. After you’ve done this, you’re going to take a piece of cardboard, and attach magnets all along the surface.

Following on from this, you can go ahead and place your paperclips on some pieces of string.

After you’ve put the entire thing together, your students will be amazed at how the paperclips rise up on the string, as they’re attracted toward the magnets resting above.

This is a really fun project, and is a great supplement if you’re teaching your students about gravity and how it works.

7. Crystalized Fall Leaves

This is another project that could technically be classified as an art lesson too. This one takes some fall leaves in various colors that you can collect with your students, and turns them into works of art through the process of science.

To conduct this project, you’re going to need a few items in order to create your solution. This solution will be responsible for crystallizing your leaves, which will take a few days to be fully formed.

After you’ve completed the project, and taught them all there is to know about the process of crystallization, you can then go ahead and take these leaves, making them into fall themed decorations that you can hang around the classroom.

8. Build Your Own Water Whistle

This is another really easy and fun science project for kids. In order to conduct this experiment, you’re just going to need two things, which involve several glasses of water, and a number of straws that you can hand out to the class.

After you’ve handed out the glasses of water and straws to each member of your classroom, you can then go ahead and tell them to bend their straws into all sorts of funny shapes.

After they’ve done this, instruct them to place their straws within the glasses, where they can then go ahead and blow, making all sorts of different noises.

Students are essentially able to build their own whistles, just by using a few key items. This one is great for sensory development, as it engages both sound and touch.

9. Waterproofing Test

This project is great if you’re teaching your class about different materials. For this project, you’re going to need enough lego to go around the classroom, so that each member is able to build their own house.

After they’ve done this, they’re going to need to find some different materials that they can use to build the roof. These might include straw, wood, plastic etc… Essentially, whatever you’re able to provide them with.

After they’ve attached that specific material to the roof, they can then go ahead and test whether or not it is, indeed, waterproof.

They can do this simply by pouring a glass of water over the surface of the roof, and measuring how much has spilled through.

After they’ve finished trialing all of the different materials, you can then go through each of them in the classroom, and assess which material was the least effective, and which was the most.

10. Balloons To Explore Buoyancy

If you’re looking for a science project that’s super effective when teaching your students about the properties of buoyancy, then we think we’ve found the perfect one.

In order to conduct this experiment, all you’re going to need are some balloons, and some different items to fill them up with.

This one could potentially get a little bit messy, and requires some degree of space, so it’s perfect for doing when the weather is hot and you can go outside to teach.

In order to conduct this experiment, you’re going to need a range of different substances, such as salt, oil, water, corn syrup etc… each of which will have different levels of buoyancy.

After you’ve filled all of them up with the relevant substances, you can then go ahead and grab a large bucket, and fill it up with water.

After you’ve filled it up, you can then grab one balloon at a time, and have the class guess whether or not they think it’s going to sink or float.

You can then assess each material afterward, and teach them why some things are more buoyant than others.

11. Grow Bacteria

This is a super important science lesson, and one we think every classroom should perform. Essentially, for this experiment, you’re going to be growing bacteria from a number of different sources.

You’re going to need a few items, including several petri dishes that you can grow the bacteria inside.

After you’ve acquired the materials, you can begin filling them with different things, such as water from a fish tank, the bacteria from the surface of your hand, bacteria from the fridge, bacteria from the toilet, bacteria from the door handle etc…

After you’ve done this, you’ll need to leave the various substances in the petri dishes, and allow them to grow over a number of different days.

Your students will be amazed when they see the bacteria forming in the petri dishes, and will also likely be shocked at how dirty some of these different sources can be.

This is a great science project for teaching the importance of always washing your hands, and keeping surfaces as clean as possible.

In addition to this, growing bacteria in petri dishes will also make your students feel as though they are true scientists, and it can be a very fun experience for all involved.

12. Invisible Ink

This one is a really fun and easy science project, and is great for doing when you don’t have too much time on your hands.

In order to conduct this science project, you’re only going to need two separate items. These include cotton ear swabs, and some lemon juice.

Pour the lemon juice into a bowl, then hand out some pieces of paper to the class. They can then go ahead and dip the end of the ear swab into the lemon juice, and write something on their paper.

After they’ve managed to write something, you’re then going to need to apply heat to the page.

You can do this simply by using a nearby radiator, or a light source. The class will be amazed at the way the heat shows their writing, and makes the invisible ink visible.

13. Homemade Fly Trap

This is another fun, easy science experiment, and is also useful for getting rid of pesky bugs around the classroom too!

For this project, you’re going to need a plastic bottle with the top cut off of it, that you can fill with water. After you’ve filled the bottle halfway, then you can go ahead and add in either vinegar or honey to each.

After you’ve done this, you can take a tally chart where each member of the classroom must guess whether the bugs will be more attracted to the fly trap containing honey, or vinegar.

You can then talk about the results of your experiment at a later date after you’ve managed to collect some flies in each. This is also a good practical lesson for students.

14. Mentos And Coke

This is a super entertaining science project that I’m sure each of us remembers from their own childhoods.

It involves taking a bottle of coke, then placing a piece of mentos candy inside, and watching as it fizzes vigorously.

You can have fun experimenting with your class with this project, by alternating the size of the mentos you’re using, or adding more in. Watch as the chemical reaction gets bigger and bigger with more sweets inside.

This one is good for teaching students about chemical reactions, and how different substances act when combined together.

15. Sprout Sweet Potatoes

If you’re looking for a science project that you can conduct over time, and watch as it forms each day, then we’d recommend this fun science project.

It essentially involves taking a portion of sweet potato, then attaching some sticks to hold them up in cups.

After you’ve done this, you can then go ahead and watch as they begin to sprout over time, forming their tuberous roots.

Make sure that you’re placing them in a warm area, such as near a window, so that they’re able to acquire enough heat to start sprouting their roots.

The class will have fun checking up on these everyday to see what their progress is like. This is a great opportunity to demonstrate how different items grow, and talk a little bit about sustainability.

Final Thoughts

To sum up, there are a whole host of different fun and engaging science projects that you can create for your class.

Although it might seem tricky to come up with new ideas at first, just a little bit of research can generate a bunch of great activities.

Whether you need something fun and easy, or something a little more intricate involving several different materials, we’re sure that you’ll find it above.

We sincerely hope that we’ve managed to provide you with the inspiration that you need to get started today.

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Easy No Prep STEM Activities with Paper

Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy project to wow your kids or you need a last-minute STEM challenge for the classroom or summer camps you really don’t need to look any further than plain old paper! A simple piece of paper has endless possibilities when it comes to STEM. Here are some of my favorite easy STEM activities with paper that require no prep work.

STEM Activities with Just Paper

What you will discover in this article!

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The STEM Design Process

For these challenges, you’ll want to review the STEM design process and Scientific Method with the kids. This helps to remind them how to approach a STEM challenge in a strategic way that increases the likelihood of success.

• Look at what the challenge or question is and what you have to work with.
• Plan how you are going to complete the challenge or solve the problem.
• Go! Get to work putting your plan in place.
• Test it out – were you right? Did it work?
• Reflect and Redesign.
• Try it again!

Reminding kids that missteps and failed attempts are part of the process will give them a little more confidence to just jump in and try.

NOTE: If you feel having a simple template to help with the index card and helicopter challenge would be helpful, we have one available for our STEAM Powered Family mailing list members. Simply enter your email here to unlock the printable.

Can You Fit Through An Index Card?

Can you fit yourself through an index card? (Or at least fit your head)?

This is such a fun challenge that helps build problem solving skills and creative thinking.

Ask the kids – can you fit through an index card? Undoubtedly the answer will be no. Then ask “What if I gave you a pair of scissors? Then could you fit?” Let’s try.

Have the kids think about how they might accomplish the task and try out their theories. Any luck?

The Math Explanation

Let’s talk about a little math. When we look at the perimeter of an object like an index card we would simply add the length of all the sides. For an index card that would mean 3+3+5+5=16 or 3×2+5×2=16.

Can we use scissors to change the perimeter to make the card bigger? YES.

This might seem a bit confusing, so here is a video demonstrating how to cut the index card. If you can’t see the video, please ensure your adblockers are turned off as they also block our video feed. Watch to the end so you can see the paper helicopter flying too!

Show the kids the first three steps:

1. Fold the card in half – lengthwise.

2. Make 2 cuts on the folded edge about a quarter inch from the outside and almost all the way through.

3. Cut along the length of the remaining folded edge.

Now look again. What do you notice? How did the card change? What is the new perimeter? Can we do it again? Revisit the planning stage. How can you fit all the way through the card?

The Solution

You can show the kids that it is in fact possible to fit through an index card. By making specific cuts you can change the perimeter enough that the opening will allow you to step through it.

1 Fold the card in half – lengthwise.

4 Flip the paper over and make another cut about a quarter inch from the first.

5. Continue flipping the paper and cutting until you reach the other side. Be careful not to cut all the way through the paper at any time.

6. Carefully unfold the paper and step through! (If you are working with older students they may only be able to fit their heads through the card).

If you would like to tie in a little more math – have the kids figure out the perimeter of the new card! Easy, engaging, and truly zero prep!

Paper Chain STEM Challenge

What about the longest paper chain you can create from one sheet of paper.

This is an exciting project to watch the kids reason out. I’m sure most everyone has made a paper chain at some point. My daughter loves to make them as a countdown to holidays, birthdays, the end of school, and days until vacation! This easy no prep activity will really get the kids thinking and the great thing is they could work in groups or individually – whichever works best for your situation.

The Paper Chain Challenge

With only a pair of scissors, a glue stick or some tape, and one sheet of paper make the longest paper chain that you can in say 20-30 minutes.

Take the first five minutes to think the challenge through and plan your strategy. Promise them that thinking it through will give them an advantage over someone who just dives in and goes to work. When the time is up the students will need to transport and lay out their chain for measuring without it falling apart.

The thinner the strips of paper and the closer to the ends they are glued together the longer the chain will be – however the thinner and closer to the ends the weaker the chain is overall and it may not transport. These are the critical thinking moments that we want the kids to recognize.

While engineering the chain is itself part of the process there are some great math tie-ins as well. Obviously, we can count the links in the longest chain, we can also measure how long the chains are – add them together – subtract the difference. For older kids, you could have them convert from inches to feet to yards – have them estimate if a chain is this long – how many pieces of paper would we need to cross the room, or go the length of the hallway or to the next town. You could have the kids graph their results. There are so many amazing possibilities with just that little sheet of paper.

Paper Columns – Which paper shape is the strongest?

These hands-on STEM projects are a fantastic way for kids of all ages to build engineering skills, creativity, and explore physics.

The Paper Stack Challenge

Give your students 3 pieces of paper, some tape, and some books. We want to see what shape column can hold the most books without collapsing a circle, a triangle, or a square.

First, have the kids do some hypothesizing. Play around with the paper but don’t tape anything yet – looking at the shapes and different ways you might make them, what do you think will be the strongest and why? Record your results.

Have each student or group make their shapes. Don’t give them restrictions on how they make the shapes, see what they come up with. Some kids might make the shapes going right to the edge of the paper – others may overlap – that is perfect because seeing the different designs and how they hold up is part of the process.

Test and Observe

Once the shapes are constructed – start stacking the books. Make sure that the students use the same books for each shape so that they know the weight is the same across their three shapes. How much did each hold? What was the strongest?

The Results

All groups should find that their circular shape is the strongest. Both the square and the triangle hold weight along their edges and corners so they will shift and collapse more easily. The circular column has no edges and corners so all of the weight is distributed evenly.

You could also compare across groups – did one method of making the shape result in a stronger shape than another.

Tie in math by averaging how many books each shape could hold.

Extension Activities

Explain to the kids that columns have been used in architecture across the ages. Depending on the age of your students you could show them examples or you could have them research the use of columns in different structures and present their findings to the class.

Build a Paper Bridge

Another variation on this activity is one we have done in the past, building a bridge out of paper . This is a great way to demonstrate how you can build strong structures with paper and can spin off into some really great engineering projects.

Paper Helicopter Project and Challenge

This is another quick and easy paper activity the kids will love! Each student will need one sheet of paper, a pair of scissors, and 3 paper clips of different weights and sizes. For example, a plastic clip, a small wire clip, and a large one.

Paper Helicopter Directions

Fold your one piece of paper into three equal sections along its longest side so you end up with three sections of approximately 8.5×3.5 inches.

Cut the pieces along the folds. From there you need to fold each of those pieces in half short end to short end and then unfold it.

Cut one end of the paper along the center from the end to almost to the middle fold.

Flip it around and cut 2 small slits on either side at the fold about a third of the way in and fold both of those sides to the center.

Clip those folds together along the bottom edge with a paperclip.

Now, flip it back over to the top and fold those 2 flaps away from each other to form the propellers.

Holding it by the paper clip, toss it gently into the air, and watch it start to spin!

Note, you can see a video of the helicopter in flight at the end of the index card cutting video above.

The STEM connection

Paper helicopters can lead to a discussion about lift: which is when the air that is under your propeller is pushing up on it harder than the air on top pushing down. This slows the pull of gravity and makes the helicopter spin.

Here is a great science experiment idea involving gravity. Have the students repeat the cutting and folding process with the two other pieces of paper clipping each with a different paper clip. Launch all three from the same spot. Which lands first – do you know why? How does the weight and size of the paperclip affect the pull of gravity on the helicopter? The heavier the object the greater the gravitational pull and the faster it will fall. What if we used a different type of paper? Like a heavier cardstock? How will that affect lift and gravity?

That is it! A few quick and easy no or low prep STEM activities using plain old paper! Perfect for a classroom, camp, homeschooling or just for some fun and memorable activities with the kids on a rainy day.

Möbius Strip Challenge

Take on a Möbius Strip challenge and explore the mathematical concepts of topology. Using just paper, tape and scissors students make an one-sided infinite loop. Then explore that concept in depth by also making Möbius Hearts and more.

EVEN MORE PAPER STEM IDEAS

Looking for more Paper STEM and Toy Making inspiration? Check out these additional resources for even more ideas for how to use paper for fun STEM activities!

5 Days of Smart STEM Ideas for Kids

Get started in STEM with easy, engaging activities.

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68 3rd Grade Science Projects: Crafts, Activities, And Resources

February 5, 2024 //  by  Louise Pieterse

Science projects for 3rd graders can be colorful, fun, and educational. It’s the perfect time for students to get familiar with the scientific method and learn basic scientific concepts from various fields of science. Hands-on science activities allow them to gain valuable knowledge of the field and foster an early love for science that they can build on for the rest of their lives. Here are 68 epic science experiments for any 3rd-grade class.

Looking for fun and educational kits for kids? Check out our Favorite Subscription Boxes for Kids

1. Make Slime

This sensory-rich activity is sure to mesmerize your kids as they create slime using a simple chemical reaction! Assist them in mixing Borax and warm water to create a slime activator. Then, have them pour a bottle of glue into a bowl before slowly adding in the slime activator to bring their squishy creation to life. 

Learn More: YouTube

2. Fossil Making

Take your learners on a journey to a land before time with this fossil-making activity! Simply start by inviting them to press small items like shells into modeling clay to create an imprint. Once their clay impressions have been formed, mix together some plaster of Paris and prompt them to pour the mixture into their molds before leaving to harden. After it has dried, encourage them to dive in as they excavate their very own fossils. 

Learn More: Rainy Day Mum

3. Break the Rules of Gravity

Your kiddos will defy gravity as they learn about magnetic fields! Task them with tying string to paper clips before attaching them to a small wooden dowel. Next, have them stick small magnets to a ruler and then encourage them to place them on an elevated surface such as a pile of books or a stack of cubes. Encourage them to observe how the magnets move against gravity as they place them beneath the magnetized ruler. 

Learn More: Buggy and Buddy

4. Color Wheel Magic

Instill some wonder into your science lessons with this magical color wheel activity! Simply print out the templates provided and invite your littles to cut out each circle before gluing it onto a cardboard circle cut out. Assist them in poking holes through the cardboard by following the dots provided, before encouraging them to decorate their wheel with vibrant markers. Finally, have them thread string through the holes and then prompt them to spin their wheels to create waves of color. 

Learn More: One Little Project

5. Core Samples

Teach your students about the different layers of the earth with this insightful activity! Engage them in placing layers of colorful playdough into a mold to represent each layer of the earth’s core. Then, challenge them to push a straw through all the layers before having them observe and label each layer accordingly. 

Learn More: Line Upon Line Learning

6. Making an Iceberg

Here’s an icy activity that we guarantee your little scientists will love! Task them with filling balloons with water, tying them off, and then placing into a freezer. Once frozen, they will then remove the balloon to reveal their icy sculptures. Place each frozen ball into water before encouraging them to measure how much of their iceberg is submerged and how much is not. 

Learn More: Science Sparks

7. Salt Crystals for Fall

Salt crystals are a fun experiment that your kiddos can observe over a few days. Simply begin by creating a supersaturated solution while your learners thread pipe cleaners through leaves and suspend them over some jars. Then, assist them in pouring enough solution into their jars to cover each leaf. They will then eagerly watch as their leaves begin to crystalize before their eyes! 

Learn More: STEAM Sational

8. Waterproofing Test

Pique your little engineers’ interests with this interactive project! Invite them to build Lego houses before challenging them to protect each house with a roof made of various materials. Prompt them to then spray their constructions with water to test the waterproof properties of each material. 

9. Center of Gravity

This adorable activity is perfect for lessons on gravity! Provide your learners with robot templates and task them with cutting out and decorating their robotic friend. Then, have them stick coins on each arm before challenging them to balance their robot on their fingers or nose to try and find its center of gravity. 

10. Marble Racetracks

Treat your kids to an engaging marble race with this speedy activity! Guide them in cutting pool noodles in half before taping them together to form a DIY racetrack. You will then prompt them to use different materials on the racetrack to test how friction can affect the speed of their marbles. 

Learn More: Fun Family Crafts

11. Bounce Bubbles

Bounce into the day with this fun and interactive bubble activity! Start by creating a bubble solution by mixing water, dish soap, and sugar. Invite your little ones to put on some clean microfiber gloves before allowing them to gently blow bubbles using a bubble wand. Encourage them to catch and bounce the bubbles as you lead them in a discussion on why they think the bubbles don’t pop as they normally would. 

Learn More: Kids Activities.com

12. Umbrella Building

Here’s a hands-on activity that’s sure to keep your kiddos intrigued for hours! Challenge them to use different supplies such as cupcake liners and sponges to create an umbrella for little toys. Once they’ve constructed their roofs, prompt them to pour water over the top to test whether their umbrella design is a success.

Learn More: Raising Lifelong Learners

13. Sun Print Artwork

Invite your learners to create sun print art, perfect for a sunny lesson outside the classroom! Simply start by prompting them to collect various natural materials such as leaves and flowers. Then, task them with laying their materials on the paper before placing a plexiglass sheet over their designs and leaving them outside to soak up the sun. After a few minutes, have them run water over their artwork to reveal its magical patterns! 

Learn More: Art Bar

14. Star Projector

Bring the Milky Way to your classroom with this fascinating activity! Print out constellation templates before tasking your little ones with poking holes through each star. Then, allow them to attach their constellation template onto an empty toilet paper roll and encourage them to use a flashlight to create dazzling galaxies around your class. 

Learn More: Playground Parkbench

15. Catapults

Have your kiddos create DIY catapults to do some target practice! Challenge them to put together their catapult using simple materials like a tissue box, pencils, rubber bands, and a bottle cap. Encourage them to shoot marshmallows, Skittles, and other candy to observe how the weight of items can change the distance they travel. 

Learn More: Frugal Fun for Boys and Girls

16. Explore water temperatures

Engage your students in this interactive project that’s all about freezing points! Task them with filling two glasses with water and ice before adding some salt to one glass. Allow them to place thermometers in each glass and observe how the temperature drops faster in the salty water. It’s the perfect segway into a lesson on freezing points and the transfer of heat.

Learn More: 123 Homeschool 4 Me

17. Water Balloon Buoyancy

This interactive experiment is sure to ignite your learners’ love for all things science! Simply have them fill balloons with oil, water, and soap before tasking them to place the balloons into cups of water. Then, encourage them to observe the balloons and jot down their findings as they record what floats and what sinks.  

Learn More: A Dab of Glue Will Do

18. Erosion Exploration

Transform your pupils into soil detectives with this erosion project! Invite them to fill one aluminum pan with soil and another with soil and plants. Then, prompt them to pour water through each pan as they watch how the water moves differently through each environment. It’s a delightful way to introduce them to a lesson on how nature can affect soil erosion.

Learn More: Third Grade Thinkers

19. Temperature and Density Correlation

Here’s another thermal experiment to get your young minds thinking. Simply task them with filling one cup with colored cold water and another cup with warm water. Prompt them to place a sheet of plastic over the warm cup before placing on top of the cold cup and removing the plastic strip. They will notice how the warm water does not mix with the cold water! 

20. Grow Bacteria

Your little ones will learn about hidden worlds as they grow microcosms of bacteria! Simply start by setting agar into Petri dishes before handing them out to your class. Allow them to test how dirty surfaces are by having them rub classroom items onto the agar. They will then label each petri dish, seal it, and watch as the bacteria multiply before their eyes. 

Learn More: Happiness Is Here

21. Exploding art

Invite your class outdoors for some arty and explosive fun! Begin by mixing powder tempura paint with vinegar and then encourage your kiddos to fill plastic bags with the colorful mixture before sealing each bag. Have them lay the bag down on some canvas and prompt them to observe as their bag expands as a result of the sun’s heat. It should only take a few minutes before their bags explode, leaving a vibrant splash of color in its wake.

Learn More: Growing a Jeweled Rose

22. Make Paper from Paper

Teach your learners about the importance of upcycling with this easy science project! Task them with cutting up scrap paper into small pieces and then have them soak the paper in a bowl. They can then dry out their moist mixture by rubbing it over a mesh frame. Once it has completely dried they’ll have created their very own recycled paper!

Learn More: Undercover Classroom

23. Water Filtration

Your little ones will learn the art of filtration with this hands-on activity. Simply prompt them to poke some holes in a plastic cup before having them fill it with layers of coffee filters, sand, and gravel. Allow them to suspend their filtration system in a clear jar before pouring in some dirty water to filter out its impurities! 

Learn More: Teach Beside Me

24. Invisible Ink

This magical activity is the perfect combination of art and science! Invite your students to dip cotton buds into lemon juice and then encourage them to write secret messages on white paper. Then, assist them in holding their paper over a heat source, like a lightbulb, to reveal their hidden words and doodles. 

Learn More: Mom Brite

25. Edible Scientific Method

Here’s a sweet activity that your kiddos will love! Challenge them with dipping different types of cookies into milk to explore how long each cookie takes to break off in the liquid. Prompt them to predict how long they think their cookies will last to bring an edible twist to lessons on the scientific method.  

Learn More: Around the Kampfire

26. Composting

Engage those green fingers in your class with this composting project! Task your littles with collecting compostable material such as dead leaves, grass, or pine cones before having them place layers of their compostable material and soil into a plastic bottle. Next, allow them to dampen their compost by adding water and encourage them to observe how their compost breaks down over time. 

Learn More: Busy Mommy Media

27. Let Veggies Sprout

Grow your learners’ love for science and plant growth with this interactive project! Guide them in cutting sweet potatoes in half and then task them with sticking toothpicks in each potato before placing in a jar. Encourage them to fill each jar with water and have them measure the sprouts that will grow. 

Learn More: Science Buddies

28. Exploring Conduction

Turn up the heat in your classroom as your students learn about heat conductivity! Simply invite them to place metal, plastic, and wooden spoons into warm water before placing a blob of butter on each spoon. Challenge them to observe the butter as it melts and have them jot down their findings on what material makes the best conductor. 

29. Balloon-powered Car

Calling all future engineers! Challenge your kiddos with building balloon-powered cars out of plastic bottles, straws, bottle caps, and toothpicks. Once their DIY car has been constructed, encourage them to inflate the balloon and attach it to a straw. As the air escapes from the balloon, they will learn how thrust and velocity can be used to propel objects. 

Learn More: Scientific American

30. Can Eggs Float?

Introduce your littles to the science of eggs with this hands-on activity! Begin by prompting them to add different amounts of salt to water. Then, allow them to drop an egg into each glass to test how salty the water needs to be to make their eggs float. It’s a great way to introduce them to the steps of the scientific method. 

Learn More: The Best Ideas for Kids

31. Paper Plane Contest

Watch as your kids soar to new scientific heights with this fun-filled activity! Guide them in folding paper planes in different styles before prompting them to fly their planes. Lead them in a discussion on how drag can change the flight pattern of objects as they compete to see who can fly their planes the furthest.  

Learn More: Feels Like Home

32. Homemade Fly Traps

Have your learners catch some critters with this fly trap project! Task them with cutting old bottles in half and allow them to fill their bottles with different foods and liquids. They will then make predictions and observe which trap attracts the most flies. 

33. Build a Tower

Your little ones will create engineering marvels in this lofty activity! Challenge them to build towering skyscrapers by having them roll up scrap paper to create the building blocks of their towers. Then, invite them to use masking tape to stick their rolled-up paper together and encourage them to use shapes like triangles to reinforce their structures.

34. Static Experiment

Electrify your lessons on science with this easy static activity! Simply prompt your kiddos to cut out small shapes from paper and then have them place their shapes on a plate. Proceed by allowing them to rub a ruler on different materials such as cotton, wool, or even their hair before hovering it over the shapes as they notice how the paper begins to gravitate towards the ruler. 

Learn More: Premeditated Leftovers

35. Mentos and Coke

Your students are in for an explosive day of learning with this engaging activity! Encourage them to pour different types of Coke into cups as you have them drop mentos into each cup. Invite them to predict what Coke and Mentos combination will produce the biggest reaction.

Learn More: Life Over C’s

36. Potato and Straw Experiment

Introduce your kids to the concept of air pressure! Start by prompting your littles to try and stab a potato with a plastic straw, making sure they hold it in the middle. Then, task them with covering one end of the straw with their finger before trying to stab the potato again. They’ll notice how it’s easier to stab the potato when they’ve created some air pressure in the straw.

37. Crayon Geology

Take your class on a rock cycle journey with a colorful twist! Engage them in grating crayons before having them squish the shavings into aluminum foil molds. Complete the process by melting the shavings as they observe how it transforms into a handmade metamorphic rock.  

Learn More: Little Bins for Little Hands

38. Surface Area Tricks

Turn your learners into little magicians! Simply task them with folding an index card in half and then allow them to create some cuts along the paper. Afterward, they will unfold their index cards to create an expandable loop that’s big enough for them to wiggle through. 

39. Friction Races

Challenge your littles to a friction race in this interactive learning experience! Invite them to cut circles out of different materials such as construction paper, felt, or craft foam. Proceed by prompting them to place their circles into a baking pan before allowing them to roll their marbles across each surface. Encourage them to observe how their marbles move slower on rougher surfaces. 

40. Melt a Cup

This basic experiment is a fantastic way to introduce your learners to the reactivity of different substances. Assist them in pouring acetone over styrofoam cups and allow them to observe how the cup melts as it takes on a completely new form! 

Learn More: The Owl Teacher

41. Static Goo

Who doesn’t love some gooey fun? In this activity, your kiddos will mix together cornstarch and water to create a goo. Then, allow them to rub a balloon on some cotton or their hair to create some static electricity, before using it to manipulate their goo.

Learn More: Frugal Fun 4 Boys

42. Bath bombs

Treat your little ones to this fragrant activity as they craft their very own bath bombs! Task them with mixing together some ingredients such as baking soda, essential oils, and citric acid to create a pasty mixture. Once their bath bombs have been molded and dried – prompt them to place them in water to observe how its chemicals react to create a colorful fizz.

Learn More: Learning Hypothesis

43. Make Colorful Flowers

Introduce your students to the wonders of chromatography with this arty activity! Simply engage them in scribbling some colorful patterns onto coffee filters by using markers. Then, invite them to fold their filters together and have them wedge it in a jar with water – making sure the tip touches the liquid. They will then watch as the filter absorbs the water causing the colors to blend and create a beautiful coffee filter flower. 

Learn More: Gift of Curiosity

44. Bubbles Inside More Bubbles

Turn bubble-blowing into a fun-filled science experiment with this activity! Allow your kids to dip straws into bubble solution before blowing one big bubble onto a clean surface. Next, prompt them to gently spray water over the bubble and then have them carefully insert a straw inside to create another bubble. It’s a cool way to introduce them to a lesson on surface tension and elasticity.

Learn More: Hello Wonderful

45. Water Whistles

Invite your learners to make their very own whistles with this fascinating exploration of sound! Challenge them with cutting and folding straws into an “L” shape before having them stick triangular-shaped construction paper in the fold. Allow them to then place their whistles into water to create a symphony of sound. 

Learn More: My Baba

46. How Do Plants Drink?

Ever wondered how plants drink? We’re sure your students have too! Simply invite them to mix up some colored water before having them place a leaf into the water. The leaf will start to “drink” the water and your littles will notice how the color seeps further into the leaf’s veins. Celery works best as you can even chop it up after to see the little tubes that take the water around the plant!

47. Experiment with Germination

Take lessons on germination to the next level with this activity! Challenge your kiddos to hypothesize about different circumstances for germination. Then, allow them to test their ideas by having them use differing soil, seeds, water, and light to carry out their experiments.

48. Fungus Growth Experiment

Get those little hands dirty for the sake of science! Start by allowing them to clean their hands to various degrees and then have them touch slices of bread. Then, encourage them to place their pieces of bread into sealable bags and invite them to watch over time as each slice grows varying amounts of fungus. 

Learn More: Mad about Science

49. DIY Lava Lamp

This gloopy activity is perfect for learning about densities and will also make the most whimsical decoration! Task your kids with filling plastic bottles with vegetable oil, water, and food coloring. They will then shake and swirl their bottles and observe as the colorful globules whirl around their bottles. 

Learn More: No Guilt Mom

50. Sundial Creations

Get those little hands crafting with this interactive project! Task them with creating a sundial out of paper plates and straws. Simply have them glue a straw to the middle of the plate before labeling each hour of the day by observing the shadow that the straw will create. This activity is a fantastic way to teach them how the earth’s rotation impacts our concept of time.  

51. Dissolving Eggshells

Here’s an egg-citing way to introduce your learners to the concept of semi-permeable membranes! Invite them to place eggs into liquids with varying acidity. Then, encourage them to observe the reaction that will take place as the shell dissolves – leaving a bouncy, translucent egg behind. 

Learn More: Teachers Mag

52. Gummy Bear Osmosis

In this sweet activity, your kiddos will grow giant gummy bears! Begin by having them soak their bears in different liquids such as soda, vinegar, and milk. Encourage them to then jot down their findings as they watch their bears swell and shrink. 

Learn More: How to Homeschool

53. Shadow Length and Direction

Who’s afraid of their own shadow? Certainly not your students! On a sunny day, task them with tracing their shadows at various times of the day. Encourage them to then record their findings to see how their shadows grow and shrink throughout the day. 

Learn More: First 8 Studios

54. Chocolate Rock Cycle

The rock cycle has never been this delicious! Simply invite your learners to grate white and milk chocolate to simulate rock erosion. Then, allow them to squish together their chocolate shavings to create a large clump. To complete the metamorphosis, have them press the clump of chocolate into foil molds to form their new chocolate rock. 

Learn More: Left Brain Craft Brain

55. Rain Cloud in a Jar

Introduce your kids to the water cycle with a DIY rain cloud in a jar. Begin by having them squirt shaving cream onto water before adding drops of blue food coloring. They can then watch as the color makes its way through the cloud for a visually captivating lesson on precipitation. 

Learn More: Messy Little Monster

56. Nature Walk Collection

It’s time for a nature scavenger hunt with a scientific twist! Invite your little explorers outdoors as you task them with collecting leaves, rocks, sticks, or tree bark. Once back in the classroom, encourage them to use a magnifying glass to analyze the intricacies of their tiny treasures.

Learn More: Nifty Mom

57. Bird Feeder Observation

Here’s an activity that’s as crafty as it is educational! Begin by having your kiddos craft bird feeders before prompting them to hang them around your schoolyard. They can then watch as their feathered friends come to visit while also documenting the different bird species that arrive. 

Learn More: Pre-K Pages

58. Magnetic Fields Art

Turn physics into art with this vibrant activity! Allow your learners to cover small metal items such as nuts and bolts in paint. Then, have them use a magnet to move their pieces around a blank canvas to create a colorful masterpiece – perfect for visualizing magnetic fields. 

59. Growing Crystals

Treat your little ones to a chemistry lesson that sparkles! Simply task your learners with creating small shapes out of pipe cleaners before attaching a string to each shape. While they piece together their shapes, dissolve borax and water before pouring the solution into a jar. Then, have your kids place their shapes into the liquid – making sure the end of the string lies outside of the jar. Invite them to observe the jar throughout the day as they watch their glistening crystals form. 

Learn More: Childhood101

60. Wind Vane Construction

Point your students in the right direction—literally! Challenge them with crafting their very own wind vanes by guiding them through each step they’ll need to take. As they construct their wind vane, they’ll get a feel for meteorology with this breezy yet informative introduction to the world of weather. 

61. Shaking for Butter

Get your learners keen to shake, rattle, and roll their way into some culinary science! Allow them to fill sealable jars with whipping cream, before tasking them to shake their jars until the cream transforms into butter. Who knew science could be so tasty? 

62. Sprout House

Instill a love for all things gardening in your students with this adorable sprout house! Invite them to piece together little houses using sponges and toothpicks to hold their structure together. Then, have them fill the spongy crevices with seeds before soaking their sponge house in water. This eco-friendly exercise is the perfect way to teach them about optimal conditions for plant growth.

Learn More: The Stem Laboratory

63. DIY Thermometer

Turn up the heat on learning with this thermal experiment! Simply begin by mixing rubbing alcohol, water, and food coloring before pouring into jars. Involve your kiddos by having them place a straw through a small hole in the lid of their jars. They can then place their DIY thermometers in hot and cold environments and observe as the liquid rises and falls in the straw. 

Learn More: Play Osmo

64. Vinegar and Baking Soda Balloons

Treat your little ones to a bubbling good time as they blow up balloons using science! Assist them in pouring vinegar into a plastic bottle before adding baking soda. As the vinegar and baking soda start to react, prompt them to place a balloon over the bottle. It’s a lesson that’ll truly expand their understanding of chemical reactions. 

65. Tornado in a Bottle

This mesmerizing activity is sure to add a spin to your learners’ day. Invite them to fill a bottle with a dash of glitter before pouring in some water. Proceed by having them tightly close the bottle before prompting them to swirl it in a circular motion. After swirling their tornados into formation, allow them to observe as the glitter whirls and swirls around the bottle!  

66. Pepper and Soap Experiment

Dive into the world of surface tension with this quick and easy experiment. Encourage your kiddos to pour colored water onto a plate before sprinkling on some pepper. Then, have them touch the surface of the water with a soap finger which will cause the pepper to scatter. They are sure to be delighted by this instant reaction! 

Learn More: Coffee Cups and Crayons

67. Heartbeat Monitor

Calling all little doctors in the making! Task your learners with placing toothpicks in marshmallows to create a squishy heartbeat monitor. They can then place it on their arms and watch the toothpick move up and down as it mimics their heartbeat. It’s a pulse-pounding introduction to human biology and the mechanics of our bodies.

Learn More: We Are Teachers

68. Magic Milk

Your little scientists will create a kaleidoscope of colors with this engaging activity! Simply start by pouring milk into a dish and then allow them to place colorful drops of food coloring in the milk. Next, invite them to use a cotton swab to disperse the food coloring and create a magical mixture of vibrant liquid. 

Learn More: Fun Learning for Kids

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A year after cuts, WV still bleeding faculty, administrators

Kentucky is working hard to educate non-traditional students in higher ed | opinion, more australians repaying student loans early, uhv school psychology grant funds 10 students’ education, university of dayton to shed faculty, weigh program cuts, 30 higher ed it influencers to follow in 2024, roanoke higher education- retail, oklahoma voice: most grads from state’s higher education system are retained in state workforce, n.c. a&t enrollment tops 14,311, arkansas higher ed subcommittee divided on the future of dei, 20 of the best 3rd grade science projects and experiments.

Are you looking for science activities to do with your 3rd graders? No sweat. We have you covered. Check out our list of 20 science projects and experiments that you can try with your 3rd graders this month.

• Hand-Eye Coordination and Age | All-Science-Fair-Projects.com – Grades 2-5, Use a stopwatch and ping-pong ball to find out how hand-eye coordination changes as children get older.
• What Do Yeast Eat…and How Can You Tell? | Education.com – Grades 2-5, The objective of this project is to examine which foods yeast cells eat.
• How Do Antacids Work? | Biochemistry Discovery Lab – Grades 3-6, Simulate out how antacids work to treat heartburn by using fake stomach enzymes.
• Mice & Music | Hubpages.com – Grades 3-6, Find out if music affects the performance of mice in a maze.
• A Magnetic Primer Designer | Sciencebuddies.org – Grades 3-6 Biology project that utilizes magnets to mimic the process that scientists use to replicate DNA, using the polymerase chain reaction.
• Growing Bacteria in Petri Dishes | Stevespanglerscience.com – Grades 3-6 biology In this science fair project, you must find samples of bacteria from an assortment of surfaces to find the surfaces that are the dirtiest.
• How Does Color Affect Eyesight? | Education.com – Grades 1-5, Find out which colors are easier and more challenging to read at a distance. This super simple project requires volunteers and color charts you can print from the web.
• How Many Letters? | ScienceBuddies.org – Grades 1-4, How much memory does a computer use to “remember” a series of letters? Find out how much memory a computer uses to remember 1000 letters.
• Jumping For Geodes: Can You Tell the Inside from the Outside? | ScienceBuddies.org Grades 1-4, Can you tell what’s inside a geode from looking at the outside? Learn more out these unique rocks and crack some open to discover the surprises inside.
• How Water Beats Rock | Education.com – Grades 1-5, Discover how water is more potent than rocks.  Experiment with ways that water can break the stone.
• Soil Type and Liquefaction | All-Science-Fair-Projects.com – Grades 1-5, Experiment with sand, clay, and loam and find out which type of soil dissolves most easily.
• Effects of Temperature and Humidity on Static Charges | Education.com – Grades 1-5, Use balloons, a rubber ball, and a scarf to investigate why those socks stick together when you take them out of the dryer and how conditions in the air affect static electricity.
• Condensation and the Water Cycle | Easy-Science-Fair-Projects.net – Grades 2-4, Gather up some jars, bowls, and ice water to determine how the amount of ice affects condensation.
• Ready, Set, Search! Race to the Right Answer | ScienceBuddies.org – Grades 2-5, Find out how Internet search engines work and how you can get different results depending on the type of information you request.
• Paper Airplane Science | Easy-Science-Fair-Projects.net – Grades 2-5, Put your paper airplane making and flying skills to the test. Design and fly a variety of different planes and determine which design flies the farthest.
• Mag-nificent Breakfast Cereal – Grades 2-5, Use a blender and a magnet to find out how much iron is in different kinds of breakfast cereal.
• The Big Dig | Sciencebuddies.org – Grades 2-5, Find out which materials are biodegradable, and which ones are not. How can you use this information to help the environment?
• Weather-Related Science Projects | Hubpages.com – Grades 2-5, Learn more about the weather and other aspects of meteorology by using instruments you build. Make a barometer, hygrometer, anemometer… even lightning!
• Hero’s Engine and Newton’s Third Law | Education.com – Grades 2-5, Build an aeolipile(Hero’s Engine) to explore Isaac Newton’s Third Law – for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.  Can you predict the movement of the Hero’s Engine?
• Rocky Secrets: Where Does Oil Hide? | ScienceBuddies.org -Grades 2-5, Can you get petroleum oil from a stone? Find out which kinds of rocks can soak up and store the most fat. Learn how petroleum geologists and engineers use this information to find the best places to get oil from the earth.

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100 Easy Science Experiments for Kids to do at Home (2024)

Welcome, young scientists!

If you’ve arrived here today, you’re probably looking for easy science experiments for kids that you can do at home. 

The only problem? So many experiments require obscure ingredients that are hard to find or require planning.

Good news! There are literally hundreds of simple science experiments & STEM activities you can do at home, with materials you already have on hand.

We scoured the internet and practiced these experiments with our own young kids to test them out and make sure they were good ones. They’re super educational and so much fun for kids of all ages!

Each of these easy STEM challenges and science experiments will take about 30 minutes to complete from start to finish, and they’re a great way to teach simple science concepts that your kids will use in school.

The best part? They each use simple ingredients from around the house like food coloring, dish soap, paper towels, ice cubes, rubber bands, white vinegar, vegetable oil, and baking soda.

So, let’s dive in to our giant list of 100 fun science experiments for kids!

1. Traveling Rainbows

This colorful experiment is an easy way of demonstrating capillary action, water travel, and color mixing. Kids of all ages will love watching the color move through the paper towel on its own, and they’ll have a better idea of how plants get their nutrients.

What You need:

• 6 glasses or jars
• Paper towels
• Food coloring (red, yellow, & blue)

2. Homemade Lava Lamp

This simple lava lamp experiment is especially a hit with kids ages 4-12 (and beyond!), and it will take their favorite adults back a few decades, too! It’s a fun way to learn about density.

What You Need:

Food Coloring A clean plastic bottle or glass jar Vegetable Oil Baking Soda

3. Jumping Pepper!

Have you ever seen pepper jump ? You’re about to! This simple experience using water, soap, and black pepper will get kids of all ages exploring the concept of surface tension.

liquid soap black pepper a plate or bowl water

4. Invisible Ink

In this fun experiment, your kids can write a secret message with invisible ink that they will learn how to reveal scientifically. Like all of these at-home science experiments, you need only basic materials, and it’s sure to be a big hit.

lemon juice Cotton swab lamp or light bulb plain white paper bowl or cup

5. Mini Volcanos

This super easy baking soda and vinegar volcano eruption is a real crowd-pleaser for kids of all ages, and your kids will be begging to do it over and over again!

All you need is a few very basic household ingredients, and your colorful volcano will be erupting in no time. It only takes about three minutes to prep.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (8 oz) of Vinegar
• Plastic cup
• 3-4 Tbs of baking soda at least
• 1 tsp of dish soap
• Food coloring (or washable paint if you want to avoid staining)

6. Elephant Toothpaste

H ave you heard of the elephant toothpaste experiment yet? It’s a blast! You will need an adult for this experiment. Kids of all ages will love learning about catalysts and exothermic reactions in this simple fun science activity

• 16-oz plastic soda bottle
• 1/2 cup 20-volume of 6% solution hydrogen peroxide liquid
• 1 Tablespoon dry yeast
• 3 Tablespoons of warm water
• Liquid dish soap

Food coloring

• Safety goggles

7. Dry Erase Marker Magic

Bring your drawings to life with nothing more than a glass plate, a dry erase marker, and a little water! Dive into this magical and straightforward dry erase marker experiment that will not only wow the kids but also ignite their curiosity about chemistry and physics. 

8. Light Refraction Magic

This super simple science experiment is really more of a magic trick, and it will teach your kids all about light refraction.

• Piece of Paper

9. Skittle Heart Experiment

This visually stunning experiment is not only a treat to watch but also a great way to explore concepts of water solubility and color mixing. Let’s dive into the simple Skittle Heart Experiment that will capture your kids’ hearts.

10. Dancing Raisins

Home science experiments don’t have to be complicated. In this very easy science experiment that’s perfect for young kids, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that you probably already have in your household: clear soda, a glass of water, and a handful of raisins. With these simple ingredients, you’ll produce chemical reactions that your kids can watch in real time!

What You’ll Need:

• A clear glass of water
• Handful of raisins

11. Rainbow Celery

Got some celery in the fridge? Then you can begin to l earn about capillary action with a simple and colorful color-changing celery experiment . It’s a really cool project that your kids are sure to remember for years to come!

What you need:

• Glasses of water

12. Homemade Slime

What kid doesn’t love slime? This is one of our favorite science experiments because it’s a sure kid-pleaser! In this basic recipe , you can make some of your own right in your kitchen, and have fun squeezing it with your bare hands all day long.

Slime has quickly become one of those classic science experiments that every family should try at least once!

• White school glue
• food coloring

13 . Shiny Pennies

You definitely have some dirty pennies lying around your house, so let’s put them to good use in a classic science experiment that even young kids can enjoy. Pennies are copper, and they are often in circulation for years (yuck!), so they often appear very tarnished. In this experience, you’re going to see if soap or vinegar (or other liquids) do a better job at cleaning the exterior of the dirty copper penny.

What You’ll Need

• dirty pennies
• 2 paper cups
• Paper towel
• Different liquids from around the house (ketchup, soda, Diet Coke, etc.)

14. Orange Fizz

Discover orange fizz bubbles popping inside of your mouth! This sensory experiment is really fun for learning about acids and bases. And hardly any materials are needed.

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• Orange or clementine

15. Exploding Soap

The Exploding Soap experiment is a surefire hit with all ages, and all you need is soap and microwave! (And a little help from your parents.)

16. Sink or Float?

Kids of all ages – but especially young children – will love this easy science experiment that builds a foundation to understanding density. This is one of our favorite science activities for the little ones!

• Two glasses of water
• Small items from around the house
• A piece of paper and a pen

17. Mixing Impossible

This super easy experiment involves mixing equal parts oil and water and adding a drop of food coloring to see what happens. Kids will love watching the food coloring make it through the oil. You will love how easy it is to set up and clean up!

• Several drinking glasses
• vegetable oil
• liquid food coloring
• a toothpick (if you have it)

18. Exploring Colors With Baking Soda / Vinegar

I n this science activity for kids of all ages, your little scientists will create a chemical reaction, explore color mixing, AND create colorful artwork. Triple win!

• Tray (A baking sheet will do)
• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Ice Cube Trays or other containers to hold the colored vinegar
• Pipettes or eye droppers
• Liquid watercolors or food coloring

19. Water Cycle In A Bag

This is one of the best science experiments to teach your kids about the water cycle, and it’s so easy to do! They’ll watch the water cycle in a bag play out right before their eyes.

• Zip lock bag
• permanent marker
• blue food coloring

20. Tie-Dye

Who would have thought that everyone’s favorite t-shirt pattern is actually a great science lesson, too? As your child dyes the shirt, they’ll be observing water solubility and absorption in real time. The dyes are fiber-reactive, which means that a chemical reaction takes places between the dye molecules and fabric molecules so that they actually become one. The dye bonds with the fabric and actually becomes a part of it.

• Plastic gloves  
• White T-shirt or pillowcase
• Buckets or bins filled with water
• Rubberbands

Here are 10 Easy Tie-Dye Patterns For Kids . To learn how to wash and care for your tie-dye shirt, click here . 

21. Static Electricity Hair

Want to provide your kids with (literally) hair-raising good time? It’s super simple to teach your kids about static electricity with this easy, no-mess science activity.

• an inflated balloon
• a piece of cloth

Rub the surface of the balloon with the cloth for at least40 seconds. Then, hold the balloon a short distance above your head and watch your hair stick to it!

What’s Happening:

T he balloon gains electrons from the cloth and becomes negatively-charged when you rub it together. Then, when the balloon touches you hair, it attracts your hair, which is positively charged.

22. What’s That Mystery Object?

The process of using your sense of touch is very important to the scientific method. In this experiment, you’ll use your sense of touch to see how many different textures you can recognize.

• A grown-up or friend to help
• A blindfold
• A “feely” bag that you can’t see through

Small objects from around the house that have different textures, such as: a plastic bag, a water bottle, a banana, a piece of paper, a cell phone, a rubber ball, a cotton ball, a tooth brush, a washcloth, etc. Try to find objects of different materials like velvet, wool, cotton, leather, metal objects, wooden spoons or toys, pieces of aluminum foil, and other interesting objects and textures.

First, put on your blindfold. The next step is to have a grown up or friend put a mystery object in the bag for you to fell. Can you guess what each object is?

23. Sugar Water Rainbows

This science experiment is especially meant for older kids, but it can me modified for kids of all ages. Your kids will love this colorful experience about density and buoyancy, and all you need are some common household ingredients.

• food colorings (preferably in rainbow colors including red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple)
• a clear straw
• salt or sugar

First, fill each of the cups with the same amount of water.

Next, add the food coloring, one color in each cup, preferably in rainbow order.

Line the cups up next to each other.

In the first cup, do not add any sugar at all.

In the second cup, add one tablespoon of sugar.

In the third cup, add two tablespoon of sugar.

In the fourth cup, add three tablepoons of sugar, and so on.

Stir each mixture until all the sugar is dissolved in each glass.

The next step is to make a sugar rainbow by placing the end of the straw in the first cup (the cup with no sugar), only about a half of an inch.

Cover the top of the straw with your thumb before lifting it out of the water so that the water does not fall out of the straw.

Now dip the straw into the second cup (1 tablespoon sugar). This time, insert it deeper so that the end is one inch below the water level. In one quick move, release the thumb and recap again. Now you should have two layers of color.

Keep dipping the straw into each solution from the one with the least sugar to the one with five tablespoons of sugar. Each time, the straw is inserted half an inch deeper.

What’s happening?

Density is the amount of substance (mass) within the volume occupied by the object. If two cups have the same amount of water (i.e. same volume), the one with more sugar is denser than the one with less sugar.

Buoyancy is determined by relative density. The solution with less density floats above the solution with higher density. That is why the color don’t mix.

Sugary water has higher density than plain water. The solution with more sugar has higher density than the one with less sugar. If you have inserted the straw in the solutions from the least sugar to the most sugar, then the color don’t mix and you have a sugar water rainbow.

24. Painted Nature

In this activity, kids will be closely observing natural phenomena, looking for signs of life and growth, and using their senses to experience natural materials. These skills are extremely important scientific foundations.

First, have your child search for natural objects in nature. Fill a bag with interesting sticks, leaves, rocks, twigs, pebbles, and anything else you can find.

Next, bring them into the “classroom” or home to closely observe and paint them.

As you paint, you can discuss the natural colors and features of these objects: What is their texture? What do they notice about each object?

My kids love “melty crayons”. They can’t get enough of them. Gather several rocks and heat them up in the oven. Then, carefully draw on them with crayons. The heat of the rock will melt the crayon wax and the it will go on like paint.

25. Magnet Dump

This activity is a great introductory magnet activity, and for younger kids, they’ll be practicing skills of classifying and sorting.

First, dump out a selection of metal objects onto the table.

Next, ask your kids to help you “clean up” by using the magnets to pick up different objects and sort them into containers.

Discuss which objects are attracted to a magnet and which are not. What patterns do they notice? What other objects would they like to try?

26. Magnet Magic

• Clear plastic box (look in your recycling bin)
• Pipe cleaners

This super-easy experiment is a really fun way to teach your child about magnets in a colorful, magical way, and it only requires simple materials from around the house. 

First, cut up several pipe cleaners and place them in a clear plastic box. The box does not need to be fancy, just see-through.

For your first time through this demonstration, have your child take a magnet and touch it against the surface of the plastic box. They’ll find that the pipe cleaners are lifted up and move with the magnet!

What’s Happening?

Magnets attract certain types of metal. The pipe cleaners have a thin strip of metal, so the magnet is able to attract those pieces and pull it around the box.

Extension:  Next time, think of what other objects could you place in the box? What objects do you predict the magnet could move around?

27. LEGO Boats

This experiements present a great opportunity to get kids thinking about engineering and design.

First, challenge your kids to build their own boat out of LEGO bricks. For an added challenge, only give them a certain number of pieces.

Once everyone has finished building, put the boats to the test in a tub of water.

Add pennies a few at a time to see how many each boat can hold.

Talk to your kids about how weight and design matter. Reflect on good designs and help them understand why they worked well.

28. DIY Parachute

You can learn about gravity by making a DIY parachute for a light-weight toy. The parachute is easily made from materials around your house, and you can experiment with different strategies and objects.

• Plastic Bag (i.e. grocery bag)
• Yard/String

First, use the scissors to remove the handles from the plastic bag. Next, poke four holes around the plastic bag so that they are the same distance apart and on opposite sides of the bags.

Then, cut four holes into the rim of the paper cut.

You’ll also need to cut four pieces of yarn, 10-12 inches long. Thread one piece of yarn through the hole in the plastic cup and tie the yarn to the cup with a knot. Repeat with all four strands of yarn in the remaining holes.

Next, thread the other end of the pieces of yarn through the hole in the plastic bag and tie a knot. 

Finally, personalize and decorate your cup with stickers, paint, crayons or markers.

Now it’s time to find a toy that is going to take a ride in your parachute. Launch your parachute into the air and see what happens!

Experiment with putting different objects into the paper cup and see how it affects the parachute’s effectiveness. Does the parachute flight time increase or decrease?

You can also try creating the parachute with different materials to replace the paper bag, such as a paper towel or napkin, and see how that affects the performance.

29. Magic Milk Experiment

• Full Fat Milk
• Food Coloring
• Dawn Dish Soap
• Cotton Swabs

First, pour the milk in a small baking dish until the bottom is covered. Next, fill the milk with drops of food coloring. Glitter is optional!

Then, pour some dishwashing soap into a bowl, and dip your cotton swap tip into the dish soap to coat it. Then, gently touch your cotton swab to the milk and watch what happens!

Milk is composed of minerals, proteins, and fats, which are easy to change. When you add the dish soap to the milk, the soap molecules try to attach to the fat molecules in the milk.

When everything stops moving, you can see where all the fat molecules are.

30. Steel Wool & Vinegar Reaction

This experiment will make abstract concepts like “chemical reaction” and “rusting” become more clear and concrete.

• two beakers
• something to cover the beaker (paper or a lid)
• Thermometer

First, place the steel wool in a beaker. Then, pour vinegar onto the steel wool and let it soak for about a minute.

After a minute or so, take the steel wool out and shake off any excess vinegar.

Next, wrap the steel wool around the base of the thermometer and then place them both in the other beaker.

Then, cover the beaker with paper or a lid. It’s important that you keep the heat in.

You’ll want to make sure that you can still read the temperature on the thermometer. It’s a great idea to poke a hole if possible through the covering so that the thermometer can fit through it, and you can easily read the temperature.

Make a note of the initial temperature, and observe it for about five minutes.

You will see that the temperature on the thermometer gradually rises, and the beaker will likely get foggy. When you soaked the steel wool in vinegar, it removed the protective coating on the steel wool, allowing the iron in the steel to rust.

Rusting is actually a chemical reaction between iron and oxygen (or oxidation). This is the chemical reaction that creates heat, thereby increasing the temperature of the beaker and on the thermometer. This is an examples of an exothermic reaction (a chemical reaction that releases energy in the form of heat).

31. Corn Syrup Viscosity Experiment

This experiment could not be simpler, and it’s the perfect tool for teaching kids of any age about viscosity.

-Corn Syrup

-2 glass containers (one should be smaller than the other)

-cupcake pan or 3 small bowls

-Food coloring

First, fill the larger glass container 1/2 to 3/4 full with corn syrup. Then, add the small glass container to the center. Careful! The corn syrup will rise a bit when you do this.

Next, Use a cupcake pan or 3 small bowls and put in a small amount of corn syrup. Mix each one with a food coloring of your choice. You should have three separate colors of corn syrup.

Then, put some colored corn syrup in the dropper, insert the dropper into the clear corn syrup and add the coloring in different places. Do that for each color as many times as you wish.

Now, you can turn the smaller glass jar while holding the outer glass still. The colored syrup will start to spread a bit. Now, switch direction and turn the small glass jar back to its original place. The colored dots return right back to their original form.

Corn syrup has a viscosity that is 5,000 times that of water, so they don’t mix in the same way.

32. Homemade Play Dough

This is a classic DIY project, and kids of all ages will love it.

• 3 cups of flour
• 1.5 cups of salt
• 6 teaspoons cream of tartar
• 3 tablespoons of oil
• 3 cups of water

33. Melting Snowballs

This is another acid and base experiment, and it’s fun on a couple different levels!

• Baking Soda

First, form snowballs by adding water to the baking soda. You’ll need about a 1/3 cup per snowball.

Then, place them in the freezer for 15 minutes.

Finally, pour drop of vinegar on the snowballs and watch them sizzle and melt.

Variations:

You can also make a snowman and do the same thing!

34. Paper Airplanes

Overview: There’s no better way for kids to learn about aerodynamics than by making a paper airplane. Wow Fold, a paper airplane website, offers dozens of paper airplane designs and easy to follow instructions.

35. Flying Ping Pong

Your kids will love this flying ping pong trick, and there are only two things you need.

First, make sure your hair dryer is on a cool setting. Then, hold the ping pong above the nozzle and turn on the air. When you let the ping pong go, it should float! Next, try it on different settings. Try to see how far you can tilt your hair dryer before the ball drops.

36. Magical Balloon

Your kids won’t believe their eyes when you push a needle through a balloon and it doesn’t pop!

• Scotch tape

First, blow up your balloon. Next, take two pieces of scotch tape and make an X on your balloon. Then, with parental supervision, push a needle through the middle of your X.

Leave the needle in and see how long it take for your balloon to finally pop!

The tape slows down the process of the hole in the balloon widening, so it takes longer for the balloon to pop.

37. What’s That Mystery Smell?

Kids of all ages can recognize a lot of different smells, and the process of using your senses is very important to the scientific method.

In this experiment, you’ll use your senses to see how many different smells you can recognize.

• Small, lidded containers that you can’t see through
• Smelly things from around the house such as bananas, an orange peel, lemons, a cotton ball soaked in perfume, chopped onion, coffee (or a used coffee filter!), rose or flower petals, pencil shavings, vanilla, vinegar, ginger, etc.

First, have a grown up put the smelly items in the containers.

Then, write a number on the side of each container.

The next step is to put your blindfold on and have them help you smell each object.

Write down what you think is inside of each container.

Finally, check your guesses! How many did you guess correctly?

38. Wacky Spoon

This is more of a science trick than an experiment, but it’s super easy to do at home!

Kitchen Spoon

Look at your reflection in a large spoon. It will be upside down!

A regular mirror is flat and sends your reflection straight back into your eyes. The rounded spoon bounces your reflection back at different angles and turns your reflection upside down. 

39. Floating Eggs

This experiment will show your child how things float differently in fresh water and salt water.

• 2 tall drinking glasses

First, fill one glass with water. Then, fill another glass with water and add 8 tablespoons of salt. Mix it up.

Next, place an egg in both glasses. One will float and the other will sink.

Adding salt to the water increases the water’s density which causes the egg to float.

40. Jumping Pepper

This simple experiment will demonstrate static electricity right before your eyes.

Place a tablespoon of pepper on a plate. Then, run a hair comb through your hair. While still holding on the comb, hold the comb over the plate and watch the pepper jump!

The plastic comb builds up a negative charge as it moves through you hair. The pepper has a positive charge, so it jumps!

Try it with other spices and powders.

41. Walking on Eggs

Your kids will be astonished to see that they can actually walk on eggs without breaking them!

• 6 dozen eggs in their cartons-Drop cloth / newspaper

Lay down your drop cloth in case the experiment doesn’t work as expected!

Place the open egg cartons next to each other. Take off your sock and shoes and gently step onto the eggs keeping your feet flat. Then bring up your other foot and carefully walk across the eggs.

Your foot is big enough that your weight spreads evenly out across the eggs, keeping them from breaking.

You can also demonstrate this concept with a heavy book. 

42. Disappearing Reflection

Make your reflection vanish! All you need is aluminum foil.

-Aluminum Foil

-Scissors (optional)

Rip off a large piece of aluminum foil (ten inches should do) and take a look at your reflection. Then, crumple up the aluminum foil. Next, Carefully flatten it back out. Finally, look for your reflection. It’s nowhere to be found!

When the aluminum foil is smooth, light reflect off of in in straight lines, which enables you to see your reflection. But once you crumple the foil, it has a wrinkled surface that sends your reflection in all different direction, causing it to disappear.  

43. Defy Gravity!

When you turn over a cup of water, you expect the water to spill and fall. But not always!

Clear plastic cup

Playing card or notecard

First, fill your clear glass about 3/4 of the way with water.

Next press your playing card or notecard gently on the top of your glass to completely cover the top. Gently rotate the cup upside down. After a few moments, remove the card. The water will stay in place!

Try it again, adding something that will float in the water. Repeat the steps, and see what happens!

45. Water Fireworks

This totally safe fireworks experiment will be a hit around the Fourth of July or any time!

Tall water glass

Small water glass

First, fill up your all water glass almost all the way with water. In the small glass, pour two tablespoons of oil. Add 2 drops of food coloring to it and mix it around with a fork until the food coloring is broken up into smaller specks.

Then, pour the oil mixture into the water and see the firework expand!

What’s happening:

Food coloring dissolves in water but not oil, causing it to go different directions.

Try two colors! Try a different size glass!

46. Bird Feeder Fun

In this simple science project, you’ll learn where birds like to have their meals.

-Pipe Cleaner

Place cheerios on a pipe clean and make a simple circle. Place it out for the birds to eat.

To experiment, place different bird feeders in different places and see if it makes a difference for how much gets eaten.

You could also make your bird feeder into different shapes to see how the birds prefer it.

47. Rain Gauge

It’s super simple to make a rain gauge from a soda bottle and track your area’s rain water!

Soda Bottle

X-acto knife (with parental supervision)

Cut the top off of a soda bottle and invert the top so that the rain water funnels into the bottle. You may want to secure it with duct tape. Next, place it outside in a spot where it can collect rain water.You’ll want to secure it so it doesn’t fall over. Then, begin measuring the rain water each day!

48. Magic Leak Proof Bag

-Ziplock Back

-Very Sharp Pencils

Fill your bag up halfway with water. Carefully poke the pencil through the bag and out the other side. (Don’t push the pencil all the way through so that it comes out the other side!)

The plastic bag’s molecules form easily around the smooth sides of the pencil forming a seal.

49. Paper Cup Tower

Similar to the “walking on Egg” experiment listed above, this activity will wow your children as they discover they won’t crush the paper cups by standing on them!

8 paper cups

First, set the paper cups on the grounds, spaced evenly. Next, place the cardboard on top of them. Then, try to stand on it and see what happens. Can you make another level?

50. Rubber Band Guitar

Tap into your musical side and explore sound with this simple rubber band guitar.

Paper or plastic cup

Rubber bands

First, wrap your rubber bands of different sizes around the cup so that the rubber bands act as strings over the hole of the cup. Then, pinch the sides of them together as best you can and tap them around the sides of the cup. See what sounds they make, and experiments with rubber bands of various sizes to see what sounds they make!

+50 More Science Experiments We Love:

Kids of all ages will love these cool science experiments that you can do together on the weekend or after school.

These science activities all use simple household items and take about 30 minutes to complete.

51. Rock Candy Experiment – Grow colorful rock candy in a glass!

51. Giant Dish Soap Bubbles – Make a giant bubble with household ingredients.

52. Solar Oven S’mores – Cook up a tasty snack in a solar oven.

53. Layering Liquids – See how liquids can stack on top of each other according to density.

54. Human Sundial – Become a human sundial to learn about solar patterns.

55. Windowsill Trash – Demonstrate how the heat of the sun helps trash decompose.

56. Naked Egg Experiment – Dissolve an eggshell with vinegar and see the membrane below!

57. Balloon Magic – Blow up a balloon without blowing, using vinegar and baking soda.

58. Tornado in a Bottle – Create a cyclone in a bottle in this classic, simple experiment.

59. Egg Teeth – Explore how sugar affects teeth in this easy experiment.

60. Step Through an Index Card – Amaze your kids by stepping through an index card that’s been strategically cut.

61. Frozen Bubbles – Find out what happens when you blow bubbles in freezing temperatures.

66. Make Butter – Shake cream and turn it into butter!

67. Ice Cream in a Bag – Turn simple ingredients into delicious ice cream.

68. Moldy Bread Experiment – See how important it is to wash your hands in the viral science experiment.

69. Map Your Taste Buds – Learn about your taste buds in this easy mapping activity.

70. Make a Rainbow – See how you can easily create your own rainbow.

71. Soap Boats – Explore density with this easy DIY boat-making activity.

72. Egg Drop Project – See if you can build a contraction to protect an egg from breaking.

73. Growing Gummy Bears – Watch gummy bears grow before your eyes.

74. Fingerprinting – Dive into the infinite world of fingerprints with a no. 2 pencil and paper.

75. Homemade Bouncy Balls – Make your own bouncy ball toys with household ingredients.

76. Dancing Corn Experiment – Explore and investigate carbon dioxide by making corn dance. 

77. Big Stick Balance – This surprising experiment will teach kids about balance.

78. Upside Down Reflection – All you need is a kitchen spoon to learn about the principles of reflection.

79. Make a Sundial – Learn how to tell time with the sun by making a simple sundial.

80. Exploding baggie – Use a simple chemical reaction to explode a plastic zip close baggie. 

81. Flame-Proof Balloon – Use cold water to make a balloon resistant to a fire’s flame!

82. Rotten Banana Balloon – Use that rotten banana in your kitchen to blow up a balloon. You can also try it with a lemon. (Here’s the Lemon Balloon Trick .)

83. Mouth-Foaming Fun – Experience a chemical reaction first hand while brushing your teeth.

84. Foot Fat Experiment – Compare the levels of fat in different foods with this simple experiment.

85. Smashing Seashells – Discover how to easily smash seashells with vinegar.

86. Super Bubble Solution – Find out how you can make giant bubbles with an easy homemade solution.

87. Shaving Cream Rain Clouds – learn about the water cycle with shaving cream. The shaving cream represents the rain cloud and the water is the atmosphere.

88. Water Bending Trick – Learn how to bend water with one simple thing you have lying around your house.

89. Dry Paper Experiment – See how you can magically dunk paper in water and not make it wet.

90. Bending Straw Illusion – Learn about light refraction in this quick and simple experiment.

93. Magic Napkin – Learn about inertia with a napkin and a plastic cup filled with water.

94. Water Fireworks – Create fireworks in a glass of water using this simple experiement with household ingredient.

95. Liquid Sandwich – Learn about density with water, oil, and honey.

97. Talking String – Learn about sound waves and make a string “sing” by using one simple button.

98. Noisy Paper – Create a loud vibration noise with just two pieces of computer paper.

99. Sunscreen and Skin – Learn about the human body and how sunscreen works with this simple experiment using sunscreen and construction paper.

100. Taste Bud 101 – Learn about the taste buds with this fun and interactive experiment.

Looking for more at-home fun ideas? Check out our list of 100 Fun Things To Do At Home >>

So, there you have it!

100 kids science experiments that are super easy to do at home.

These simple science projects are meant to spark the curiosity of your child (and the whole family.)

We hope you loved this list of our very favorite science experiments.

Email us at [email protected] to add your idea.

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Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.

Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.

Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.

Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page  and Editorial Policy Page .

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Simple Science Fair Projects for 3rd Grade

The third-grade science fair is a fun and exciting time for curious students. Third graders are developing the analytical and math skills that support using numbers and charts to analyze data, rather than relying solely on observation. They’re also ready to understand and apply the scientific method, which means they can come to the science fair with some really creative and fun experiments! 

Look for a true experiment using different approaches to observe how they change the outcome of your tests.

Related Post: 1st and 2nd Grade Science Fair Projects

How do I help my 3rd Grader Choose a Project?

The most important thing is to choose something that your child is excited about. If they think the project is fun, interesting, or cool, they are going to engage with the process and be excited about both the actual experiment and about sharing their project with their teachers and friends at the science fair. 

Some questions you can ask your child or yourself to help find a great experiment:

• What is my child curious about in the world?
• What is our budget?
• Is my child detail-oriented or more of a big-picture thinker?
• How much time do we have before we need to present results?
• What kind of space do we have for conducting an experiment?

Thinking about your time, space, interest, and end result, will help you develop a fun and successful project. Ensuring that the project your child chooses fits with a budget, time, or space limitations will mean you both have more fun and can engage with the spirit of scientific discovery without being concerned about logistics. 

Experiencing the Scientific Method

The 3rd-grade science fair is a great opportunity for students to really begin to explore and understand the scientific method. 

The scientific method means asking a question about why or how something works, then developing a hypothesis about the answer(s), designing an experiment to test your hypothesis, conducting the test and making observations about what happens, and determining whether the hypothesis was true or false. 

A successful project includes a clear experimental design that will give you results that a grade-school child can observe, understand, and explain. A word of caution: a lot of science activities out there on the web aren’t quite true experiments; they have a ton of value and are cool and fun activities for demonstrations, early ‘lab’ experiments, or creative at-home fun. But to make a fun and successful science fair project, your child needs to be able to compare how different methods of doing something relate to different outcomes, which is a little different than simply a demonstration of a scientific principle. 

For example, making slime is a really popular and fun activity. It teaches kids about chemistry: how you can take individual components like water and cornstarch that, when combined, make a slimy semi-solid that can be pulled and stretched and squashed. That is super cool! But in itself, making a batch of slime (even with different colors) is not really an experiment. However, making slime using different starting materials, different water temperatures, or different types of add-ins (glitter, confetti, sand) might be a great and really fun experiment!

By varying the types of ingredients or the water temperature, your child can begin to understand how chemistry is affected by ratios, temperature, texture, etc. They could even pick their favorite method and explain why: what makes this recipe the most fun, gross, least messy, etc.? Can they consistently get the same result once they have identified their ideal slime?

Experiment Basics

There are a few steps that should be the same for any science fair project, and the creativity comes out in the questions your 3rd grader asks, the way they set up their experiment and, of course, in the actual results.

The basic steps for creating a successful and fun project:

• Start with some research, either online or at the library. Learn a bit about the topic, and use that to help think of questions, make hypotheses, and design the experiments.
• Gather your materials: make sure you have everything you’ll need, that you and your child know where it is, and that you have time and space for the experiments.
• Make sure you have materials for recording observations! We recommend writing down some things you want to observe ahead of time and marking down the results as they happen. It’s also great to take photos and possibly video of the experiments for your child to include on their poster and in their report.
• Allow time to ask new questions and expand or alter the experiment if needed.
• Evaluate the results – what worked, what didn’t, were your hypothesis correct or were they different than predicted? Do you know why?
• Help your child make their poster and report (as appropriate). 

Some Fun Project Ideas

The internet is a great resource for finding appropriate science fair projects. When I was a kid, there were a few standard projects out there (I grew up in a university town where lots of parents were professors or professional scientists) and the science fair didn’t always have a lot of creativity. These days, when I look for project ideas, I see a ton of interesting experiments, and I find myself getting excited about how you could change, combine, or spin-off to do something unexpected and different. So this is a great time to find inspiration from others and use the power of the internet to get started.

We’ve selected a few examples of interesting, simple science fair project ideas and provided a bit of detail about how you can design and conduct the experiment. But don’t limit yourself to these ideas! Follow your child’s curiosity and let them lead the way. You are here to help make sure they are safe, that they don’t forget the assignment guidelines, and maybe to act as their trusty assistant.

#1. Flight Dynamics 

Growing up, we all had our favorite way to fold a paper airplane. While some kids made planes that just looped and floated to the ground (yep, still me), others made airplanes that could do tricks, fly long distances, or drop like a stone (on purpose of course). This is a really easy science fair project for a 3rd grader that also happens to be fun and really instructive.

This project has so much room for making creative experiments: your child could pick three airplane designs and compare them; they could use two different types of paper to see whether the same design flies differently with different paper; two people could fold the same designs to see if that makes a difference. Brainstorm with your child and let them come up with lots of different things to compare!

We recommend that your child conducts flight tests inside, where there will be less chance that wind, rain, or other outdoor factors affect the experiment. Make sure to start flight tests from the same place, and be consistent in how you measure or observe the airplanes. And you could measure multiple outcomes: distance, height, number of loops, or how they land.

We love this project because it is really simple but illustrates the basics of a science experiment . It’s also an inexpensive or even free science experiment, depending on what you already have at home. This project can also be completed quickly if you’re pressed for time.

#2. How to Cook an Egg

Another simple science fair project idea is to experiment with different methods for hard-boiling eggs. We’ve all been there: you boil an egg, and you go to peel it and you have a giant mess with egg white stuck to the shell and bits of egg and shell stuck to the counter, your hands, and the cutting board. There is a lot of information out there about the “best” method and most people probably have their own ideas. But how did you come up with your answer? Probably trial and error, figuring out which method, or combination of methods, works with your water, pans, altitude, and level of comfort with peeling messy eggs.

This is science! It’s the kind of science that most people do without even realizing it. So if you have a kid who likes to cook, let them experiment with one of their favorite foods to see how well different methods work and which is their favorite. We’ve given details for the boiled egg example, but this one could easily be adapted to other foods.

Some ideas for experiments would be to put eggs in water that is already boiling and compare that with putting eggs in the water cold and heating them together. You could also experiment with letting the eggs cool with the water or dunking them into ice water after they are finished cooking. You could test starting egg temperature: does an egg straight from the fridge cook differently than one that was warm (room temperature) before it went in the water? Just don’t forget to have some controls, for example, if you are using different water or egg temperatures, make sure to use the same pot and the same volume of water.

We love this experiment because it is done with something children are likely familiar with. It is really relatable since we all eat and make the same food one way or another, so doing experiments with cooking can be a really great way for kids to connect with scientific concepts like experimenting, predicting, and keeping track of your results.

#3. What Makes Seeds Sprout?

Another really simple science fair project for elementary students is experimenting with what makes seeds sprout. Plants are everywhere, but we often know so little about them, so here’s a great introduction to how plants grow and where food comes from! 

For this one, you’d want to make sure to choose seeds that are easy to sprout since we want the experiment to be about the child’s ideas, not so much the seeds themselves. Some of the best options are beans, cucumber, squash, and flower seeds like sweet peas or forget-me-nots. Depending on your budget and access to seeds, we’d recommend picking up a packet or two, or just some dried beans from the grocery store, to get your experiment going.

Some ideas for experiments could include the amount of light that seeds get each day; the amount of water; the type of soil; if they are sprouting in water, soil, or on a paper towel; or adding something other than water (soda or juice are popular). If time allows, your child could carry this experiment for several weeks, learning whether differences in germination (sprouting) also mean differences in how fast or tall the plant grows as it gets bigger.

We like this one because it’s a bit more complex, but still really approachable. This experiment may “feel” a bit more like science to some kids and parents. But this is still fun, inexpensive, and leaves a lot of room for creativity and expanding the experiment. It will require a bit more planning: seeds will need at least a few days and up to a few weeks for you to observe the results, so if you’re pressed for time, this is not the one to choose! But if you’re planning ahead, and your child is interested in an experiment that has a bit slower pace, this is a great option. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you describe the scientific method.

A basic dictionary definition of the scientific method is systematic observation, measurement, and experiment, and the formulation, testing, and modification of hypotheses. One critical thing to remember is that you can think of it as circular: results lead to more questions which might become another lead to more experiments. 

What questions can help my child do their project independently?

Science fairs are a time when it is easy as a parent to take over – intentionally or not – and possibly prevent your child from feeling that they’ve done the project themselves. Some questions to ask your child to keep them engaged and in the lead include:

• What do you think will happen when we do x?
• How should we set up this part of the experiment, why?
• What do you notice about this result?
• Do you have ideas for other tests we could do to answer your questions?

What other resources are out there for 3rd grade science fair project ideas?

There are a lot of educational sites out there with project ideas. If your child doesn’t have something in mind, do some online research and look for an experiment on a topic that your child is interested in. A lot of sites include instruction cards and materials lists to help you set up a successful experiment. That said, we have a few words of caution about the online resources:

• As mentioned up top, some of the ‘experiments’ are more like science demonstrations, so make sure to either adapt to it or find another option that your child can use to compare results.
• A lot of the project idea boards I found gave the “answer”, which may be helpful to you as a parent (or teacher) but takes away from your child’s scientific experience, so you might consider keeping that part to yourself.
• Do your own research: there are few examples where the experiment is sound, the instructions are good, but the background information is inaccurate or outdated, so proceed with caution and remember that science moves quickly.

Allison Ebbets has a background in biology and ecology. She is a teacher, mother of a toddler, and part-time ski coach who is passionate about making STEM education accessible to everyone who is curious about their world.

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24 Exciting Stem Activities for 3rd Graders

STEM activities for 3rd graders provide an exciting and hands-on way to engage young minds in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

These activities not only spark curiosity but also foster critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and creativity.

Whether it’s building simple machines, conducting fascinating experiments, or exploring the world of coding, 3rd graders can embark on a journey of discovery and exploration that lays the foundation for a lifelong love of STEM subjects.

We will explore a variety of STEM activities tailored to the unique interests and abilities of 3rd graders, making learning both fun and educational.

Use LEGO bricks to build a marble maze

I carefully stacked colorful LEGO bricks to construct an intricate marble maze. The bricks formed a winding path filled with twists, turns, and surprises. As the marble rolled along, it encountered bridges, tunnels, and obstacles, making its journey both thrilling and challenging. The combination of creativity and engineering in this LEGO marble maze provided endless entertainment and encouraged problem-solving skills, all while showcasing the endless possibilities of these iconic building blocks.

Build a domino chain reaction that includes at least one domino tower

Certainly! Imagine a thrilling domino chain reaction that begins with a towering structure of colorful dominoes. At its apex, a carefully balanced tower comprised of carefully stacked dominoes teeters on the edge of excitement. As the first domino is gently tipped, it cascades down, triggering a mesmerizing sequence of events. The falling dominoes release marbles that follow intricate pathways, knocking down more dominoes in their wake. The tower’s collapse creates a breathtaking spectacle as it sends ripples of energy throughout the chain reaction, with each falling domino setting off the next, until a grand finale is reached. This domino chain reaction showcases the captivating blend of physics, engineering, and creativity that can be found in such intricate setups.

Use pipe cleaners to create at least 6 types of 3-D shapes

With a handful of colorful pipe cleaners, you can effortlessly craft a variety of 3-D shapes that are both fun and educational. Start by bending and twisting one pipe cleaner into a cube, showcasing its six equal square faces. Then, fashion another into a pyramid with triangular sides, and a third into a rectangular prism, highlighting its six faces, including rectangles and squares. Continue by shaping a cylinder with a circular base and a cone with a single curved surface. Finally, challenge your creativity by crafting a sphere, the most challenging yet rewarding shape to form with pipe cleaners. These hands-on activities not only introduce young learners to geometric shapes but also encourage fine motor skills and spatial understanding. Related: 20 Innovative 3rd Grade Classroom Ideas

In five minutes, build the tallest tower you can using only pipe cleaners

In just five minutes, I carefully twisted and stacked pipe cleaners to construct a towering structure that stretches upwards with a delightful wobble. The colorful pipe cleaners formed a whimsical and unconventional tower that stood tall, showcasing the flexibility and creativity that these materials can offer. Though it may not reach skyscraper heights, it embodies the essence of playful experimentation and innovation, proving that even with limited time and resources, you can create something intriguing and unique.

Find a way to make a ping pong ball roll down a cardboard ramp as slowly as possible

To make a ping pong ball roll down a cardboard ramp as slowly as possible, you can employ several methods to increase the friction between the ball and the surface of the ramp. One approach is to roughen the surface of the ramp by attaching sandpaper or adhesive-backed grip tape to it. This added texture will create more resistance and slow down the ball’s descent. Additionally, you can angle the ramp at a shallow incline, reducing the gravitational force pulling the ball downhill. Experiment with the angle and the surface texture until you achieve the desired slow roll, allowing for a controlled and intriguing journey down the ramp.

Build an igloo using toothpicks and marshmallows

Creating a toothpick and marshmallow igloo is a delightful winter-themed project. Begin by sticking toothpicks vertically into a flat surface to form a circular base, then connect their tops with marshmallows, securing them in place. Gradually build upward, curving the structure inward to create the iconic dome shape of an igloo. Add marshmallow “bricks” between the layers to strengthen the structure. Continue this process until you’ve built a cozy, edible igloo. Not only is this a fun and creative activity, but it also provides a sweet reward once your mini igloo is complete!

Design a new kind of plant using aluminum foil

Imagine a futuristic aluminum foil plant that thrives in extreme environments. This plant would feature aluminum foil-like leaves, which serve as highly reflective surfaces, deflecting excess sunlight and reducing heat absorption. These specialized leaves would also have tiny channels, enabling them to efficiently capture and store rainwater for prolonged periods. The plant’s aluminum foil stem would be strong and flexible, adapting to harsh weather conditions. Its roots would incorporate aluminum nanoparticles to enhance nutrient absorption and resistance to soil toxins. This innovative plant would be ideal for arid deserts and urban environments, showcasing the remarkable potential of biomimicry and materials science in sustainable agriculture.

Use duct tape to design a new kind of water bottle carrier

With duct tape, you can create a versatile and rugged water bottle carrier that’s perfect for outdoor adventures. Start by cutting a length of duct tape and folding it in half lengthwise, sticky side in. This creates a sturdy strap. Attach the ends of the strap to the sides of your water bottle, securing them with more tape for added durability. Then, fashion a simple loop at the top of the strap to slide your hand or fingers through, allowing for easy carrying. Add extra layers of duct tape for reinforcement and personalization. This DIY water bottle carrier will withstand the rigors of hiking, biking, or any other activity, ensuring that you stay hydrated while on the go. Related: 25 Easy Stem Activities for 2nd Graders

Build a Paper Roller Coaster

Constructing a paper roller coaster is an exciting and educational project. Start by designing a series of track segments using sturdy cardstock paper. Create loops, twists, and turns while ensuring each segment fits seamlessly with the others. Assemble your roller coaster structure using tape or glue, ensuring it’s stable and secure. Experiment with various design elements like hills, drops, and banked turns to provide an exhilarating ride for a small marble or bead. Customize your roller coaster with decorative elements like tunnels, flags, or even a theme park backdrop. Building a paper roller coaster is a fantastic way to learn about physics, engineering, and creativity while having a blast with hands-on fun.

Build a tower of cups as tall as you

Building a tower of cups as tall as you can be a fun and challenging activity. Start by stacking cups one on top of another, ensuring they are stable before adding more. Gradually build upwards, making sure to maintain balance and stability as the tower grows. It’s essential to stack the cups evenly and symmetrically to prevent the tower from toppling. Experiment with different cup sizes and stacking techniques to see how high you can go. This activity not only tests your spatial awareness and fine motor skills but also offers a great opportunity for creativity and problem-solving as you strive to build a towering masterpiece.

Build a Balloon Car

Building a balloon car is a fun and educational project that demonstrates the principles of physics and engineering. Begin by creating a chassis using lightweight materials like cardboard or plastic. Attach four small wheels to the chassis, ensuring they spin freely. Then, make a simple propulsion system by attaching a straw to the car’s top and securing a deflated balloon to the rear. When you blow up the balloon and release it, the escaping air propels the car forward. Experiment with different designs and sizes to see how they affect the car’s speed and distance. This hands-on activity teaches kids about the relationship between air pressure and motion while sparking their creativity.

Paper Airplanes Why Flaps and Folds Matter

In the world of paper airplanes, flaps and folds matter significantly because they determine the aerodynamics and flight characteristics of your creation. Every fold and flap contributes to the plane’s stability, lift, and overall performance. For example, the wing’s angle of incidence, created by the folds, affects how the plane generates lift and stays aloft. Folds in the tail and wingtips impact stability and control during flight. Precision in folding and shaping ensures that the paper airplane follows a predictable flight path. Exploring various folds and flaps allows you to experiment with different designs and understand the fundamental principles of aerodynamics, making the art of paper airplane construction both educational and entertaining.

Make a mini basketball hoop with pipe cleaners

Crafting a mini basketball hoop using pipe cleaners is a simple and enjoyable project. Start by shaping a pipe cleaner into a circular hoop shape, making sure the ends overlap to secure the form. You can adjust the size to your preference. Then, create a small loop at the top to hang the hoop on a suitable surface, like a doorknob or a hook. Attach it securely, and you’re ready to shoot some mini hoops with a small ball. It’s a quick and creative way to add a bit of basketball fun to your indoor space, and you can easily customize the hoop’s size and color with different pipe cleaner options.

Build a mini 3D replica of your family using playdough

Creating a mini 3D replica of your family using playdough can be a delightful and imaginative activity. Start by selecting various colors of playdough to represent each family member. Shape and mold the playdough into miniature figures, paying attention to details like hairstyles, clothing, and facial features. You can use small accessories like beads for eyes or buttons for clothing to add realism. Arrange these miniatures in a family grouping, perhaps seated around a playdough table or engaged in various activities that reflect your family’s unique personalities and interests. This creative project not only hones fine motor skills but also fosters a sense of togetherness and storytelling as you bring your playdough family to life.

Make a Lego car and power it with a balloon

Crafting a Lego car powered by a balloon is an exciting and hands-on engineering project. Begin by constructing a simple vehicle using Lego bricks, ensuring it has space for a balloon to be attached at the rear. Then, secure a deflated balloon onto a straw using tape, and attach the straw to the back of the Lego car. Once everything is in place, inflate the balloon by blowing into the straw, then quickly release the air. The escaping air propels the car forward, demonstrating the principles of thrust and motion. It’s a fantastic way to blend creativity and science while having a blast with a DIY balloon-powered Lego car.

Build your name with Legos

Constructing your name with Legos is a creative and personalized project. Start by selecting Lego bricks that match the colors you want for each letter. Then, lay out the bricks in the shape of each letter of your name. You can use flat bricks for the base and stack others to form the letters. Experiment with different sizes and styles of Lego letters to make your name unique and visually appealing. Whether you choose a bold, blocky design or a more intricate script, building your name with Legos is a fantastic way to showcase your creativity and love for this iconic toy.

Make a Paper Helicopters

Paper helicopters are simple yet fascinating paper crafts that can be used to demonstrate basic principles of aerodynamics. These miniature helicopters typically consist of a sheet of paper folded into a specific shape, with a rotor blade at the top. When dropped from a height, the paper helicopter spins as it descends due to the forces of gravity and air resistance. These toys provide an excellent opportunity for hands-on learning and experimentation, allowing children and students to explore concepts such as gravity, air resistance, and the effects of weight distribution on flight. Paper helicopters are not only educational but also fun and engaging, making them a popular choice for science experiments and classroom activities.

Apple Browning Experiment

An apple browning experiment is a common science project that explores the enzymatic browning process in apples. When an apple is cut or bruised, it releases an enzyme called polyphenol oxidase, which reacts with oxygen in the air to produce brown pigments. In this experiment, you typically cut an apple into several pieces, leaving some exposed to the air and others treated with substances like lemon juice, which contains vitamin C and acts as an antioxidant. Over time, you observe and compare the browning rates of the different apple slices to understand the role of enzymes, oxidation, and antioxidants in the browning process. This experiment provides valuable insights into food science, enzymatic reactions, and the preservation of fruits and vegetables.

Pumpkin Clock

A pumpkin clock is a creative and educational project that combines Halloween fun with learning about electricity and circuits. To make one, you typically carve out a small pumpkin and turn it into a clock face, adding numbers and clock hands. Inside the pumpkin, you place a simple battery-operated clock movement mechanism. Then, you attach LED lights to the clock hands to act as hour and minute indicators. By connecting the LEDs to the clock’s power source, you can create a unique and functional pumpkin clock that not only tells time but also showcases the principles of electrical circuits. This DIY project is a fantastic way to engage in hands-on science and craft activities during the Halloween season.

Building a Hand Crank Winch

Building a hand crank winch is a practical and rewarding DIY project that can have various applications, from hoisting heavy objects to raising flags or even creating a simple well. To construct one, you’ll need a sturdy base or frame, a drum or spool for winding the cable or rope, and a handle for cranking. The key is to ensure that the handle is attached to a gear mechanism, allowing for easy rotation and efficient winding. By turning the handle, you can wind the cable onto the drum, creating a mechanical advantage that makes lifting heavy loads more manageable. This hand crank winch is a useful tool for both practical applications and educational purposes, as it demonstrates fundamental principles of mechanical engineering and leverage.

Magnetic Slime

Magnetic slime is a unique and engaging material that combines the fun of slime with the properties of magnetism. To create magnetic slime, you typically mix iron oxide powder with a standard slime recipe, which typically includes ingredients like glue, borax, and water. The iron oxide powder gives the slime magnetic properties, allowing it to be attracted to magnets. This opens up a world of interactive possibilities, as you can use magnets to control and manipulate the slime, making it stretch, dance, and even move like a living creature. Magnetic slime is not only entertaining but also provides an opportunity to learn about the properties of magnets, materials science, and the fascinating world of non-Newtonian fluids like slime. It’s a favorite among science enthusiasts and a creative way to explore the principles of magnetism. Related: 100 Best 3rd Grade Questions of The Day

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Sohaib Hasan Shah

Sohaib's journey includes 10+ years of teaching and counseling experience at BCSS School in elementary and middle schools, coupled with a BBA (Hons) with a minor in Educational Psychology from Curtin University (Australia) . In his free time, he cherishes quality moments with his family, reveling in the joys and challenges of parenthood. His three daughters have not only enriched his personal life but also deepened his understanding of the importance of effective education and communication, spurring him to make a meaningful impact in the world of education.

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45 Easy Science Experiments for Kids

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

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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.

None of this is magic. It's all science that you can do at home, most likely with ingredients you already have in your house. So, next time you need a boredom-busting indoor activity on a rainy day or a DIY project to get their minds humming, try one of these best at-home science experiments for kids , which cover topics like cover magnetism, surface tension, astronomy, chemistry, physics and more.

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

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!

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

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

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"

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

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

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

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

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 »

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 »

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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