14 Cool Science Experiments to Do at Home (using household items!)
Years ago, when we were homeschooling, shopping for science experiments sometimes drove me crazy.
I didn’t want to have to go buy a head or red cabbage, and Borox and see if we had an eye dropper somewhere, and order the right kind of test tubes and petri dishes, and hope I could find the tweezers, and then realize that we needed Ivory soap specifically …
…. and ARRRGH, I thought we had Alka-Seltzer in the house, but we don’t so now we have to go make another trip!
I had enough to worry about already.
And I know you do too.
So if you’re looking for some cool experiments to do at home using just a few basic household items … look no further!
Here are 14 hands-on activities that kids will love and that are simple to do.
Why are science experiments important?
In addition to being fun, science experiments have some great educational benefits for kids:
- They let kids learn in a way that uses all their senses and appeals to all learning styles.
- They give kids practice using trial and error.
- They engage kids in a way that textbooks and worksheets can’t.
- They enhance critical thinking skills.
- Kids are more likely to remember something when they’ve discovered it themselves.
Awesome Kitchen Science Experiments for Kids: 50 STEAM Projects You Can Eat!
Awesome Physics Experiments for Kids: 40 Fun Science Projects and Why They WorkAwesome Science Experiments for Kids: 100+ Fun STEM / STEAM Projects and Why They Work
13 Science Experiments for Kids
Lemon Volcano Experiment
You only need three ingredients for this lemon volcano experiment: a lemon, some baking soda, and a dash of food coloring.
Not only will kids have a blast with this experiment, but they'll also get to learn all about the fascinating science behind base and acid reactions.
Dancing Grapes Experiment
You won't believe how simple this dancing grapes experiment is to set up, and the best part is that it's sure to captivate your entire family, no matter what age they are.
You only need two ingredients for this awesome hands-on STEM experiment. Can you believe it? So, gather up those supplies and let's dive right in to discover how to make those grapes dance.
Color Changing Flowers Science Experiment
This color-changing flowers experiment is an absolute blast and perfect for kids of all ages, whether you're looking for something fun and easy for preschoolers or a cool project for older kids.
Learn all about how plants drink water and watch in awe as the flower petals magically change color right before your eyes!
This cool science experiment is super simple to set up. And you don't have to hang around for half a day waiting for the magic happen, because the flowers change color pretty quickly, usually within just about an hour.
How to Create a Foaming Rainbow
Get ready to add a burst of vibrant colors to even the dreariest of days with the magical foaming rainbow.
It doubles as both a STEM project and sensory play idea, and is sure to keep your kids entertained and engaged.
How to Make A Snow Storm In A Jar
As the snowflakes dance outside your windows (or if you're like me, in Georgia and wishing they were), why not create a winter wonderland right in the comfort of your own home?
Go round up the entire family -- both the kids and the curious adults -- for an exciting activity: making a fizzy snowstorm in a bottle.
Rain Clouds Experiment
Get ready to create your very own mini rainy day right in your home.
How? You'll simulate rain clouds using fluffy shaving cream. The "rain" is created by the weight of the liquid (food coloring) gathered in the clouds.
It's a simple yet mesmerizing demonstration that will help your kids understand how and why rain happens. Like having a cloud right in your hands!
Growing Gummy Bears Experiment
This growing gummy bears experiment is a quick and super fun way to introduce the amazing world of osmosis.
Don't worry if you don't have gummy bears -- any type of gelatin-based candy will do.
Walking Rainbow Water Experiment
Everyone loves a cool science experiment -- but what if we take it up a notch and also make it a entertaining water project?
. And that's where the amazing "Walking rainbow water experiment" comes in!
With just six cups, colored water, and a few paper towels, you'll embark on a journey of color and discovery. This walking rainbow water experiment is loads of fun and a great way to teach children about color mixing, the color wheel, and the fascinating phenomenon of capillary action.
Dirty Penny Chemistry Experiment
Get ready to amaze your kids with some super cool kitchen science -- and it won't cost you much at all!
Using just a few pennies and some everyday kitchen condiments, you can introduce the concept of oxidation and basic chemical reactions.
This is a fantastic STEM experience that both preschoolers and bigger kids will enjoy.
Density of Liquids Experiment
This layering liquids experiment is for older kids (about middle school age). It answers the question, "How can we 'see' the density of liquids?" It's a great activity for homeschooling families.
Cosmic Colors
This swirling colors activity is great for kids any time of year, but especially on the 4th of July. It's kinda like witnessing liquid fireworks!
I can almost guarantee that you have everything you need for this experiment in your house right now, so grab the kids and give it a try.
Magic Crystals
Make your own colorful salt crystals with just three ingredients.
How to Make a Tornado in a Bottle
Making a tornado in a bottle is an exciting activity that's not only incredibly entertaining, but also incredibly easy on your wallet.
It requires just a handful of common household items. You'll be amazed at how quickly it all comes together.
How to make a Volcano with Baking Soda and Vinegar
Picture this: an outdoor volcano experiment that combines fun and learning all in one.
You'll get a kick out of watching your kids' faces light up with amazement as they witness the eruption of their very own volcano. It's the perfect way to spend quality time together while discovering new things.
Science Experiment Books for Kids
Awesome Science Experiments for Kids: 100+ Fun STEM / STEAM Projects and Why They Work
Best Seller
See it on Amazon
This book has 100 fun, colorful, attention-grabbing activities for kids ages 5-10.
It’s great for visual people, like me, as the materials for each experiments are clearly laid out and it’s loaded with color photos.
Awesome Kitchen Science Experiments for Kids: 50 STEAM Projects You Can Eat!
Fun Food Experiments!
See it on Amazon
A science experiment that’s also a treat to eat?
Yes, please!
Some of the experiments (recipes?) in this book include:
- Nature’s Candy
- Homegrown Yogurt
- Flaming Cheese Puffs
- Protecting Your Proteins
- Cinnamon Apple Pancakes
- Solar-Powered S’Mores
- Build a Gingerbread House
- Potato People
- Popcorn on the Fly
- Outrageous Osmosis
- The pH of Lemonade
- Dueling Domes: Geodesic Gumdrop Designs
The experiments are laid out in a helpful and organized way, listing the level of difficulty, prep time, cautions, and yield.
Each experiment also has a box with the “Hows and Whys” explaining the science behind the experiment.
Awesome Engineering Activities for Kids: 50+ Exciting STEAM Projects to Design and Build
Best Seller
See it on Amazon
Would your child enjoy creating toothpick towers, marble runs, and water rockets? Then they will love this book!
Each activity includes a materials list and step by step tutorial. In addition, there is a short sidebar explaining the relevance to a specific branch of engineering.
Now you have a ton of great science experiments to keep you and your kids busy and happy for a long time.
Have fun!
More Fun Activities Kids Can Do at Home
Looking for more easy activities your kids will love? Check these out:
- How to Make Puffy Paint — One of my most popular posts, this shows you how to make outdoor puffy paint without the mess of shaving cream and glue.
- How to Make Seashell Moon Sand — This is super easy and a great sensory activities. A great way to use those seashells that you found on the beach during your last family vacation.
- Dinosaur Footprint Cookies — What’s more fun than making cookies? Making cookies with a dinosaur footprint in them! You can use my recipe, or substitute your own favorite sugar or peanut butter cookie recipe.
- DIY Unicorn Dream Catcher — All you need is yarn, cardboard, and colored paper to make this simple unicorn craft.
Saving these for homeschooling next week ,thanks!