Plus it gives them a chance to simply learn the art of observing and problem-solving on their own, which is a win in my book.

Here’s how to make your own Science Sensory Bottles.  

This post contains affiliate links to amazon. 

Science Sensory Bottle Experiment

I’ll admit it, I could look at this picture above with the floating crayons for quite some time, it totally captures my science brain in wondering.  Some thoughts going through my head are:

Are the crayon buttons moving?

Are the bubbles moving?

How fast are they moving?

How did they get there?

Will that little drop at the top fall down?

What is this made of?

Are these questions going through your thoughts right now too?  That’s exactly why you need to create this science sensory bottle experiment with your child too. It’s a really fun back to school STEM activity!

Create opportunities that encourage your child to question and hypothesize 

My kids literally spent hours with my creating the bottles and exploring how they work. Using clear Corn Syrup was a first for us at our house, which led to some great nutrition conversations too.

Here’s what you need to make your own.

Materials Needed

• Crayon Buttons 
• Corn Syrup 
• 3 Empty Voss Water Bottles 
• Water
• Observation Journal

Directions for Science Sensory Bottles

Gather your materials with the kids, which are just a few things and get started.  I recommend filling the science sensory bottle  in the following order to make the most out of this science experiment.

1.  Have your child fill one empty bottle with water.  Leave some airspace for the water to move around.

2. Then add a few of the Crayon Buttons into the water bottle.  Screw the lid back on tightly to avoid spills and leaks.  

3. Explore with the water bottle and crayon buttons and see what you can do with the buttons.  Ask questions as your child explores their science sensory bottle …

Do they float?

Do they sink?

Can you control where they go?

Do you hear anything?

What is the density of the liquid like?

4. Now fill the 2nd empty bottle with corn syrup with your child.  This alone is a super fun experience as it drips in a small smooth stream into the empty bottle.  My kiddos loved the air bubbles that were created in the process too.  Be sure to leave some airspace for the corn syrup to move around with.

5. Add a few Crayon Buttons into the corn syrup container.  Seal the container tightly to avoid spills or leaks.  Ask the same questions again from Step 3. Is the density different from the water? 

6. Shake the science sensory bottle filled with corn syrup up to add air bubbles to it.  Are the answers to the questions the same?

7. Now it’s time to see what happens when you add half water and half corn syrup.  Visually the corn syrup pouring into the water is quite a site.  Go super slow so it lasts longer.  Pause and allow time for your child to observe the contrast in density.

8. Add the Crayon Buttons  into the corn syrup and water mixture and see what happens.

9. SHAKE the combined science sensory bottle to see what happens with the corn syrup and water mixture.  Be sure your child really sees what happens.  Ask the same questions again from Step 2.

TIP: Great opportunity to talk about sugary drinks here and how what you see is not always what’s really in our drinks and what to look for to avoid on ingredient levels

For a little extra crayon science, try crayon recycling with this project.

Want to get a little creative with your crayons? Make these crayon ornaments! This simple craft is the perfect way to use up broken and old crayons.

SCIENCE RESULTS:

I’ll admit it, I was quite surprised with a few of the reactions we were able to create when we varied the density of the liquids and my kids were totally intrigued.  This science sensory bottle experiment gives your child so many opportunities to observe and explore the density of liquids.

Do the crayons float, sink or remain the same? The answer might surprise you! 

BONUS IDEAS: You could add additional liquids into new bottles to see how they react as well.  The first one I would try would be vegetable oil. Or try a different material like metal or stone or glass to see if the reactions are the same.

If you’re looking for more ideas like this science activity for kids.  GRAB A COPY of our book 100 Fun and Easy Learning Games for Kids!

Want more Crayon Themed Sensory Bottle FUN?

Try this Crayon Math Game with the same bottles and crayon buttons.

Looking for more Back to School STEM ideas? Try these…

Are you ready for a rainforest adventure?

A Virtual Field Trip to the Rainforest Jungle

One thing that can be fun to do with your child when you can’t actually travel to a specific destination is to take a virtual field trip there together.  Summer Vacation is the perfect time to try it out.  I’m put together a selection of video about the rainforest and songs about the rainforest that are teacher approved and mom approved for your child.

Are you ready to explore the RAINFOREST? 

Rainforest Songs for Kids

Take a peek at this adorable songs that highlight jungle animal activities for kids that are mom approved. One thing you may want to discuss are some of the stereotypes for jungle animals and how really lives in which region.

Discussing words like jungle, forest, safari, desert, plains can help them to understand the various types of ecosystems on our planet earth.

The Animal Boogie by Barefoot Books

Walking in the Jungle Song by Super Simple Songs

Walking Through the Jungle by Barefoot Books

Rainforest Explorer: Preschool Learn to Dance

Walking In the Jungle with Matt

Down in the Jungle

Want to make a follow up activity? Your child can make a Rainforest Diorama! Learn about the diverse range of plants and animals that can be found in a rainforest ecosystem.

Here’s even more Rainforest activity ideas below.

Activities Ideas for a Virtual Field Trip to the Rainforest

The featured songs and videos highlight the animals and plant life that you would find in a rainforest jungle.

Rainforest Animals Ideas

• During your adventure grab some stuff animals or plastic animals like these from the toy box and set up your own rain forest at home too to add to the adventure!

Rainforests on the Map

• Grab your globe or kids map and try to find where some of the world’s rainforests are.

Rainforest Themed Crafts for Kids

• Crocodile Craft with Bubble Wrap
• Crocodile Handprint Craft
• Caterpillar to Butterfly Science with Balloons
• Butterfly Art with Recycled Items
• Snake Crafts for Kids

Disclosure: Amazon Affiliate Referral links used in this post. 

Rainforest Themed Books for Kids

Add some word cards and books too to make it a print rich environment all about the Rainforest!  Here are a few of my favorite jungle books on Amazon.

• Rumble in the Jungle by Giles Andreae
• The Jungle Book by Golden Books
• The Umbrella by Jan Brett
• The Animal Boogie by Debbie Harter 
• The Magic School Bus Explore the Rain Forest
• If I Ran the Rain Forest: All About Tropical Rain Forests by Bonnie Worth
• Over in the Jungle: A Rainforest Rhyme by Marianne Berkes
• The Mixed-Up Chameleon Board Book by Eric Carle
• “Slowly, Slowly, Slowly,” said the Sloth by Eric Carle
• Five Little Monkeys by Eileen Christelow
• The Greedy Python by Eric Carle
• Rainforest Grew All Around by Susan K Mitchell
• Hello, World! Rainforest Animals by Jill McDonald
• Over and Under the Rainforest by Kate Messner
• The Leaf Detective: How Margaret Lowman Uncovered Secrets in the Rainforest by Heather Lang
• The Great Kapok Tree: A Tale of the Amazon Rain Forest by Lynne Cherry
• In the Rainforest (Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2) by Kate Duke
• Zonia’s Rain Forest by Juana Martinez-Neal
• We’re Roaming in the Rainforest by Laurie Krebs
• Sloths Don’t Run by Tori McGee
• Explore the Rainforest: Emma and Louis in the Jungle by Ameri-siemens Anne

Rainforest Videos for Kids

Take a virtual field trip to the rainforest with a few videos that are teacher approved on Youtube!  Movies like Fern Gully: The Last Rainforest , Tarzan  , the Jungle Book  would be a fun addition to the end of our Virtual Field Trip to the Rainforest too!

A glimpse at the jungle section of Planet Earth Movie could be super informative too!  Do you have a favorite Rainforest Movie? 

Virtual Field Trip to Amazon Rainforest 

A Trip to the Rainforest

25 Facts About the Amazon Rainforest

Rainforest Animals Sounds and Wildlife for Children

Have fun on you virtual field trip to the Rainforest with your child with these Rainforest Videos and Rainforest Songs!

Ask a friend to JOIN YOU on your Virtual Field Trip to the Rainforest… SHARE on Facebook!

Want more Virtual Field Trips? Click now for 30+ Virtual Field Trips for Kids!

Shark Virtual Field Trips for Kids

A shark virtual field trip is an online adventure that lets kids explore the world of sharks without leaving home or school. Through live streams, videos, and interactive activities, children can watch sharks swimming in their natural habitats, learn how scientists study them, and discover fascinating facts about different species.

It’s fun because kids get to see these incredible animals up close, hear real experts share stories, and even ask questions about what they see. This Shark virtual field trip turn learning into an exciting underwater journey that inspires curiosity and respect for these amazing creatures.

Our Shark Virtual Field Trip expands all the fun of Discovery Shark Week but fun facts for kids to learn about sharks. Get started by downloading our shark virtual field trip log.

Want more locations? You can explore our 30+ Virtual Field Trips for Kids.

Psst… has your family watched Shark Whisperer on Netflix? Marine conservationist Ocean Ramsey fearlessly swims with sharks in this documentary about her mission to protect them. This shark virtual field trip is a great way to expand their shark interest and learning.

What can kids learn from learning about sharks?

Here’s what your can learn about while learning about sharks…

• Different Shark Species: Kids can discover that there are over 500 types of sharks, from tiny dwarf lanternsharks to huge whale sharks.
• Anatomy and Adaptations: They can learn about shark body parts, like their sharp teeth, powerful tails, and special senses that help them find food.
• Habitats: Children explore where sharks live, from shallow coral reefs to the deep ocean.
• Shark Behavior: They can find out how sharks hunt, migrate, and even care for their young.
• The Food Chain: Learning about how sharks are top predators shows why they are important for healthy oceans.
• Conservation: Kids can understand the threats sharks face, like overfishing and pollution, and why we need to protect them.
• Myths vs. Facts: They learn to separate scary stories from the real science about sharks.
• Respect for Nature: Studying sharks helps children appreciate the beauty and importance of all wildlife.

It’s important for kids to learn about sharks because these remarkable animals play a vital role in keeping our oceans healthy and balanced. By understanding sharks, children can see that they are not just scary creatures, but essential predators that help control fish populations and maintain the marine ecosystem. Learning about sharks also encourages respect for wildlife and teaches kids how human actions, like overfishing and pollution, can harm these species.

When children discover the truth about sharks, they are less likely to fear them and more likely to care about protecting them. This knowledge can inspire a lifelong appreciation for ocean conservation and a sense of responsibility for caring for our planet.

Explore this Shark Easy Reader Book for even more fun during your virtual field trips!

Youtube Kids Videos About Sharks

• Shark Dive | What Sam Sees | National Geographic Kids
• Swimming With a Small Shark | What Sam Sees | National Geographic Kids
• Sharks for Kids | Learn Bright
• Super Sharks! | SciShow Kids
• Explore Underwater Animals At The Aquarium | Super Simple Play with Caitie!
• All About Sharks for Children | FreeSchool
• Learn about Shark Facts for Kids with Ryan! | Ryan’s World
• Shark | All Things Animal TV
• Great White Shark – Little Fox
• Why Sharks Don’t Have Bones – SciShow

Family Friendly Videos About Sharks

• Sharpen Your Shark Knowledge: Species of Sharks | SeaWorld Orlando
• Ocean Ramsey and a Whale Shark | GoPro
• Ocean Ramsey and a Great White Shark | GoPro
• How One Diver Became the “Mother of Sharks”
• The Math of Shark Skin – Emory University
• Sharks of Osprey Reef – Great Barrier Reef

National Geographic Videos About Sharks

• Sharks 101 | National Geographic
• Shark Queens: Rulers of the Ocean
• 5 Big Sharks That Rule the Sea
• A Blacktip Feeding Frenzy
• Great White Sharks of Guadalupe Island
• Hammerheads: Shark Side of the Moon | National Geographic
• How Baby Sharks Survive in a Dangerous World | National Geographic

BBC Earth Videos About Sharks

• Sharks Playlist – BBC Earth
• Why are Thousands of Sharks Gathering Here? | Blue Planet | BBC Earth
• Reef Shark Feeding Frenzy | South Pacific | BBC Earth
• Hundreds of Sharks Attack Tropical Fish | BBC
• Sardine Feeding Frenzy with Sharks, Penguins and More | BBC Earth
• Whale Shark | Planet Earth
• Petting Sharks like Dogs?! | Blue Planet
• The Woman who Swims with Sharks – BBC

The Dodo Videos with Sharks

• Wild Shark Recognizes Human Best Friend After They Were Separated For A Year | The Dodo
• Dog Swims With Her Shark BFF Every Day | The Dodo
• Diver Befriends A “Relentless” Nurse Shark | The Dodo
• Watch This Guy Save A Tiny Baby Shark | The Dodo

Baby Sharks and Sharks Eggs

• The Strange World of Shark Eggs
• Shark Eggs | New England Aquarium
• Hatching Shark Eggs | San Antonio Aquarium

Shark Full Episode Video Shows for Kids

• Wild Kratts – Stuck on Sharks | PBS KIDS
• Sharks’ Teeth! | Blippi Wonders
• Wild Kratts Sharks: Predator and Prey | PBS KIDS
• Sharks! | Weird But True! | National Geographic Kids
• Sharks | Apex Predators of the Oceans | Wild Kratts
• Blippi Visits an Aquarium | Blippi
• Our Planet | Coastal Seas | Netflix

Sharks at Aquariums

• SHARKS! Predators of the Deep | Georgia Aquarium | Zoo Tours
• Dine with Sharks – Shark Encounter | SeaWorld Orlando | Zoo Tours
• Sharks Underwater | SeaWorld Orlando
• SeaWorld Shark Encounter 4K Tour Orlando Florida | ithemepark
• Shark Encounter – SeaWorld San Diego | Ejay’s Adventures
• Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan Walking Tour | Discovery Walking Tours TV
• Largest Aquarium in North America with Whale Sharks! Georgia Aquarium | Attractions 360°
• Sharks at the Florida Aquarium | BlueWorldTV
• Sharks at Frost Science
• Sharks! Behind-the-Scenes Tour in the National Aquarium in Baltimore | Science Mania
• How Sharks Are Fed At Aquariums | BuzzFeedVideo
• Close Encounter with Sharks | Secrets of the Aquarium | BBC – National Marine Aquarium
• Shark Train Ride | Shark Voyage | Houston Downtown Aquarium

Live Cam of Sharks

• Live Shark Cam – Monterey Bay Aquarium
• Gulf Stream Exhibit Live Shark Cam – Frost Science Museum
• Georgia Aquarium Live Cam
• Tennessee Aquarium Live Cam
• National Aquarium Livestream

Download Shark Virtual Field Trip Log

Dive into Shark Adventures from Home!

Ready to make learning about sharks exciting and meaningful for your kids? Our Shark Virtual Field Trip Log is the perfect way to explore the wonders of the ocean without ever leaving your living room.

This printable unit includes:

• A handy page packed with kid-friendly YouTube video links featuring incredible shark facts and up-close encounters.
• A reflection sheet where children can write or draw what they learned, helping them process and remember their discoveries.

Whether you’re planning a homeschool lesson, summer activity, or just want to inspire curiosity, this resource makes it easy to create an unforgettable shark experience.

Download your Shark Virtual Field Trip Log today and watch your kids become shark experts!

This shark virtual field trip is a wonderful way for kids to dive into the world of these fascinating ocean creatures without ever getting wet. By exploring live videos and interactive activities, children can discover how important sharks are, uncover cool facts, and feel inspired to care about protecting marine life.

Whether at home or in the classroom, this unforgettable adventure will spark curiosity and leave kids with a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the ocean.

Here’s a few more ideas to use with your Shark Virtual Field Trip for Kids…

Shark Activities for Kids

• Shark Books
• Shark Songs
• Shark Activities and Crafts
• Finding Shark Teeth
• Fun Facts About Sharks for Kids

You may also enjoy these activities with your child…

Shark Themed Activities for Kids

This week is the perfect time to get together with a few friends and do a shark themed playdate!  I’ve put together a list of 20+ Shark themed ideas what each of your friends can choose from to bring to the playdate. Or you can do them at home with your little one, whichever works best for you.

I’ve placed an * by the photos that are featured above in the image for easy reference.

• Feed the Shark Alphabet Game by Toddler Approved *
• Newspaper Shark Craft by IHeartCrafty Things
• Shark Virtual Field Trip for Kids
• Finding Shark Teeth with Kids
• Shark Corner Book Marker by Hey Let’s Make Stuff *
• Shark Coffee Filter Suncatcher by A Little Pinch of Perfect
• Shark Cootie Catcher by Easy Peasy Fun
• Shark Sun Catcher by Buggy and Buddy *
• LEGO Sharks by Little Bins for Little Hands *
• Printable Shark Memory Game by Natural Beach Living
• Shark Black Glue Art by Red Ted Art *
• Shark Water Bead Sensory Bin by 3 Dinosaurs *
• Shark Sensory Bottle by Stir the Wonder
• Feed the Shark Counting Game by Rainy Day Mum
• Shark Name Match Game by Toddler Approved
• Facts About Sharks by 3 Boys and a Dog
• Shark Coding Game for Kids by Life with Moore Babies
• STEM Shark Activity: How Do Sharks Float by JDaniel4’s Mom *
• Easy Cardboard Shark Costume by Hello Wonderful
• Shark Themed Printable Unit by 3 Dinosaurs
• Free Shark Easy Reader by 3 Dinosaurs
• Montessori Inspired Shark Activities & Printables by Living Montessori Now
• Shark Fin Jello Cups by Oh My Creative *
• Shark Themed Lollipops by Natural Beach Living *

HOW DID IT GO? Let me know which activity you did for Shark Week with your child in the comments below!

Do you have a shark lover in your life? The funny jokes about sharks here are sure to be a hit!

We recently had the chance to observe some staff members cleaning the shark tank, such a unique experience. Click here to see more photos of our Aquarium Trip!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links where I earn a small commission from your purchase. 

Start off your Shark Week fun with these 12 Shark Toy Animals!

Are you ready to learn how to create art with sharks for Shark Week?  I’m excited to share with you this special art program that will be perfect for your summer art fun with your child.

Sharks Video Art Lessons

What is included in the Sharks Video Art Lessons from ChalkPastels.com?

• 10 Sharks Video Art Lessons
• 20 step-by-step written art tutorials – in two Shark ebook volumes
• Step-by-step instructions
• Techniques encourage both new artists and challenge more advanced ones
• Independent learning for older students
• FAQs
• Glossary of art techniques
• Option to join You ARE an Artist Facebook group for sharing art work and asking questions.

Try a Free Sharks Video Art Lesson

Chalk Pastels has introduced their new Shark Video Art Lessons!

What is included in the Sharks Video Art Lessons?

• 10 Sharks Video Art Lessons including…
  • Great White Shark Smiling
  • Hammerhead
  • Zebra Shark
  • Night Shark
  • Black Tip Reef Shark
  • Flying Sharks
  • Shark Fin
  • School of Sharks
  • Nurse Shark
  • Megaladon
• Two Shark ebook volumes with 20 step-by-step written art tutorials!

Explore additional options from the You Are An Artist Lessons or ebooks

Shark Week Art Tutorials for Kids

Learning how to draw a shark can be challenging for kids but so rewarding once they figure it out. Here are a few tutorials of sharks using various techniques including a few shark chalk pastel tutorials, shark watercolor tutorials, and just drawing them.

A few of them feature Chalk Pastels too so you can get an idea of what the art lessons are like.

Which shark art tutorial was the easiest for your child to follow along and make their own shark? Jump over to our facebook page an be sure to share a photo with us of your shark art project!

Now it’s time for some of our favorite picture books about sharks!

Shark Books for Kids

Finding good books about sharks that don’t all look the same can be challenging in your library or book store.  I’ve found a few new shark picture books that I think are a great addition to your Shark week reading. 

I’ve listed them below with links to Amazon for easy purchase.  There’s so much to learn about sharks and the important role they play in the ocean’s ecosystem.

• Hark! A Shark!: All About Sharks (Cat in the Hat’s Learning Library)
• Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark Became the Ocean’s Most Fearless Scientist
• Surprising Sharks: Read and Wonder
• If Sharks Disappeared

• Big Shark, Little Shark (Step into Reading)
• How to Survive as a Shark
• Clark the Shark
• Sharks

• The Magic School Bus and the Shark Adventure (Scholastic Reader, Level 2)
• DK Eyewitness Books: Shark
• How to Draw Incredible Sharks and Other Ocean Giants: Packed with over 80 Creatures of the Sea
• How to Spy on a Shark
• National Geographic Readers: Sharks! (Science Reader Level 2)
• Ultimate Sticker Book: Sharks: More Than 250 Reusable Stickers

Discover the best shark books for kids of all ages! This list includes fun fiction and fascinating non-fiction titles—perfect for toddlers, preschoolers, and elementary school kids who love ocean adventures.

Shark Videos for Kids

I’ve previewed these videos so that they are approved for younger ages to watch.  Watch on your desktop or phone together and talk about what they see and learn from the videos about sharks. It’s a great time to talk about some of the misconceptions that we have about them. Sharks have been around for over hundreds of millions of years.

There are over 400 types of sharks of them, from the 8-inch-long dwarf lantern shark to the 40-foot-long whale shark. Sharks are efficient predators with a highly developed sense of smell, hearing and sight. But there are some types of sharks that can go up to a year before their next meal depending on where they live in the ocean.

If you’re looking for more shark videos, take a look at our Shark Virtual Field Trip for Kids!

Dive into our exciting shark virtual field trips that let kids explore the underwater world and watch these incredible creatures up close, sparking curiosity and respect for the ocean’s most fascinating predators.

Hope you have fun exploring our oceans and learning about sharks with your child.

Here’s a peek at our recent visit to an aquarium in Arizona what is your closest aquarium to visit and enjoy these unique animals?

Disclosure: Affiliate links to products

SHARK WEEK Learning Activities for Kids:

Shark Week Book Basket:

Fill your book baskets with a combination of fiction and non-fiction books about sharks for SHARK WEEK!

• Clark the Shark Lost and Found (or any of the other Clark the Shark books are fabulous for young readers) This one talks about what to do if you are a lost shark – stand in one place and yell a lot.  It’s a fun fiction series.
• Sharks Have SIX Senses.  This non-fiction text is a level 2 reader, making it a good choice for a non-fiction read aloud. Informative, but not overwhelming for young readers.
• Scholastic Discover More Sharks, DK EyeWitness Sharks and DK Super Shark Encyclopedia are all geared for older children, but packed with full color photographs and facts. My non-readers enjoy paging through them and asking me to read small portions.

Hunting for Sharks Teeth with Kids:

Try your hand hunting for your own sharks teeth with kids. Find a sandy creek bed with a shallow beach area for children to access the water.  Google the city you live in for public parks with water access. Familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations for hunting for sharks teeth. At the time this article was written, “Fossil shark teeth may be collected in Florida without a permit.”

What to bring when Hunting for Sharks Teeth with Kids

• Long sleeve pants and shirts to protect them from bug bites.
• Wear water shoes or Crocs to protect their feet from sharp stones or glass that may be in the creek.
• Sifters
• Something to scoop the sand.
• A small bag or container for collecting fossils and sharks teeth
• Bug spray
• Camera
• Towels and a change of clothes for afterwards.

Spend time Identifying the Fossilized Sharks Teeth. The Florida Museum of Natural History can help with this. Click here to see their preferred methods for submitting your images for identification.

Write an Informative Text. Encourage your children to write a page, paragraph, or story about the information they have learned.

You can also print out this shark easy read book for more shark fun and learning!

Click here for more Shark Themed Activities for Kids

Common Asked Questions by Kids about Hunting for Sharks Teeth

Q: How will I know if it is a shark tooth or a rock?

A shark tooth will be pointed like a triangle.

Q: Why are there so many sharks teeth?

A: Sharks have lots of teeth. They loose teeth just like we do, only there is more of them to loose. Just one shark can loose 30,000 teeth in it’s lifetime. That’s a LOT of teeth!

Q: Why are there sharks teeth in the creek when there are no sharks?

A: Florida was once covered by sea water. The sharks that lived there long ago left their teeth. The teeth fossilized.

Q: Why can’t we find other parts of the shark?

Sharks are made up of cartilage, not bone.  Like your nose.  Cartilage breaks down faster than bone and doesn’t fossilize as easy.

Q: Why aren’t the teeth we find white like the pictures?

The color of the teeth depends on the minerals in the area where it was lost. The fossilized teeth colors usually range from grey to black.

Far away from Florida?

Put some sand in a large tupperware container and add a bag of mixed shark fossils and create your own backyard sharks tooth hunt!

You may also enjoy these activities with your child… Save

Use them to support and enrich your child’s academic experience.

Best Summer Science Experiments were selected (with the help of my kids) based on:

1. How much fun they were to do.
2. How easy they were to set up and maintain.
3. How much they taught and inspired my kids to learn more.
4. How expensive they were.  (Each summer science experiment in this list was under $25)

Doing science experiments with your children

• Boosts scientific understanding
• Expands vocabulary
• Provides background knowledge
• Encourages the use of science skills such as collecting data, recording data, observing, and making hypotheses.

Consider getting the materials for one (or more) of these science experiments for your child or classroom.  These would also make great activities for after school science clubs.  You may even consider sending one in to your favorite classroom teacher or give as birthday gifts for summer celebrations!

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases from affiliate links in this post.

Best Summer Science Experiments for Kids #1: Raise a Painted Lady Butterfly

There is nothing more amazing than to see a butterfly emerge from it’s chrysalis. It is life changing in more ways than one. As a former kindergarten teacher, I made sure to order this science experiment for my students every spring. It is a fabulous experiment that allows children to watch the later stages of the painted lady butterfly.

We have purchased our re-fill kit from Amazon and Insect Lore directly and have 100% survival rate each year (I’ve done this for at least 10 years!). I have heard of people who were not as lucky, but the company sent a replacement kit.

We have had fabulous discussions about the environment, planting butterfly friendly plants, using less (or no) pesticides, and the benefits of pollinators to our plants. Get the starter kit here.

Positive: REALLY NEAT to watch the metamorphosis process.

Negative: The caterpillars can all change when you are not looking. Kids can be sad if you miss this stage, but don’t worry, they are still fun to release!

Best Summer Science Experiments for Kids #2: Raise a Praying Mantis

This Praying Mantis Life Cycle Stages would be the perfect addition to a science center in your home or classroom this spring. We set our egg cases in a safe, but very visible place and observed them for changes every morning. After a few weeks – we noticed a ton of very tiny praying mantis emerging.  They were SOOOO COOL! 

We brought them outside and watched them for a long time leave the egg case and head to the wild. It is one of the best science experiments for it uniqueness and being able to introduce beneficial insects into the natural world. My kids were intrigued and couldn’t wait to read and learn more about them. Include a set of note cards with the stages on a table and encourage readers to match the pictures to the words and put them in order.

For more educational activity ideas, visit Raise a Praying Mantis

Positive: Really – really cool if you can see them hatch.

Negative: An egg sac can be a little dull to observe for 2 weeks!

Best Summer Science Experiments for Kids #3: Raise a Ladybug

Ladybugs are beneficial garden insects and help lower the aphid population. Watch as they change from tiny nymphs to adult ladybugs with this fabulous 2 week summer or spring science experiment.

We purchased the entire ladybug kit so that the children could observe the nymphs as they grew and changed. They pupate on the edge of the plastic, making it easy for kids to see. When the adult ladybug emerges children can observe and release them within a week to their garden area. We have the life cycle toys for ladybugs too.

Positive: Visible change for kids to observe and record.

Negative: We thought some of our larva died and it was sad. Then we realized they must shed their skin (none dies)  and that we had way more than we thought = happy kids.

Best Summer Science Experiments for Kids #4: Keep an Ant Farm

I’ve always been a bit hesitant about having biting ants in my home or classroom (even if they do stay IN the container) The families that have done this experiment RAVE about how neat it is, so I’m adding it to the best summer science experiment collection. “We loved our ant farm. They only live about 3 weeks though. DS8 was begging to do it again this year. ” ~ Jessy You will have to let me know if you have tried it!

Positive: You can see how a tiny creature can literal change the earth.

Negative: Um… they are army ants!

Best Summer Science Experiments for Kids #5: Grow a Garden in a Can

Gardening has never been easier with these garden in a can. You open them, add water, and set in sunshine. That’s it. In a few days sprouts emerged and the herbs grew. You can have your child be responsible for misting or watering the plant every day in addition to tracking growth.

It’s a small amount to maintain and can be grown in the smallest of spaces – think classroom or apartment windowsills! What’s great is that everything you need is included. Pop the top off and the seeds are in a tiny package inside. Add the seeds, cover with dirt, water, and place in the sunshine.  This is another windowsill project that’s great for summer school classrooms or apartment dwelling families!

Positive: It is SO easy, everything is in the can. You just open and water them.

Negative: You need to water them!

Get the watering can and kids gardening tools on Amazon too!

Best Summer Science Experiments for Kids #6: Grow a Container Vegetable Garden

Have a little more space? Try container gardening with kids. These Miracle-Gro Container Gardening Pods are another all-in-one seed pod with everything you need to grow your own vegetables and herbs.  Plant into rich soil in a sunny spot, water daily, and enjoy. In fact, these pods are guaranteed to grow!  Included in the 6 pack are Basil, Sweet Pepper, Globe Tomato, Eggplant, Cilantro, & Jalapeno. See how to make your own garden labels here.

Make a container for each child and let them care for their garden as it grows.

Positive: Having your own garden gives children ownership and teaches life skills.

Negatives: Some parents and teachers report not having a green thumb. Yes, this project needs water daily! Plan accordingly if you go on vacation for more than a few days. Maybe a friend can babysit your garden?

Best Summer Science Experiments for Kids #7: Raise a Tadpole

Here is another life cycle science experiment that kids cannot get enough of. They will watch and notice the smallest of changes in the tadpoles.  From tails to tiny legs, then no tails, this transformation is life changing for kids to watch. We have had friends who have collected tadpoles from neighborhood creeks and pods and others that have ordered this grow a frog kit.

Positive: Kids can truly see how tadpoles change into frogs.

Negatives: As with other life cycle experiments, some tadpoles may not make it.

Best Summer Science Experiments for Kids #8: Plant a Venus Fly Trap

Sure growing vegetables in your garden can be a great experience for children, but this Venus Fly Trap plant is extra ordinary – its carnivorous. For convenience, you can order it online. Most places online will ship the plants to you live, but bare root. That means, you will need a pot with indoor potting soil ready to go.  A bare root plant, must be planted right away.  Some local plant stores may also carry them, call ahead to verify.

Positives: This science experiment is a great talking point for kids!

Negatives: Many people have stated they have difficulty keeping this (or any) plant alive.

Best Summer Science Experiments for Kids #9: Grow Mushrooms in a Box

We like to cook with mushrooms, but hadn’t considered growing them until we found this neat way to grow mushrooms in a box. Thanks to Back to the Roots for sending us a kit to try with the kids! Even families that live in apartments or harsh weather conditions can try growing something edible with kids – as this kit stays inside!

We kept it on our bookshelf near a window, but out of direct light. This biggest thing was to remember to water it daily. The kids and I were amazed at how fast they grew from tiny spores to giant oyster mushrooms (This picture was after 9 days!)  We did try to get a second harvest from the same box with no luck. The website gives lesson plans

We kept a daily log of colors, number and length of the mushroom caps to bring in some data collection and measurement.

Positives: Fast growing.  Visible changes every day makes for intriguing science logs.

Negatives: Mushrooms must be cooked. Many schools do not allow classrooms to eat food from the garden. Check with your principal on your school policies for consuming during school hours.

Best Summer Science Experiments for Kids #10: Plant Bean Seeds

Test Your Germination Rate of bean seeds. This science experiment will give children a basic understanding of how a plant grows, starting with the germination. The bags used are like a window to plant growth and allow children to “see” the beginnings of the roots and shoots.

Try this project in your home or classroom today. What is the germination rate of your seeds? Click for the directions and activity extensions.

Try a pack of older seeds – does the germination rate change?

Positives – the bag provides a window to the seed growth and development.

Negatives – plants will not grow in this environment and will need to be transplanted shortly after germination or discarded in the compost bin.

Best Summer Science Experiments for Kids #11: Plant a Butterfly Garden

Stop by your local home garden store and select a few butterfly friendly plants to plant.  Transplants will give you flowers (and butterflies) faster than seeds. In fact, if you plant seeds, make sure to read the labels. Many wildflowers will not produce flowers until year 2.  When possible, choose plants native to your location.  Here are some specific plants you may want to consider when Planting a Butterfly Garden

Positives: You get to observe butterflies in your own yard! No butterfly garden passes needed.

Negatives: Some plants that attract butterflies are poisonous when ingested by humans.  Make sure to research them well and monitor small children.

Need a few more ideas?

1. Observe a Bird Feeder or Birdbath
2. Order Tinker Crates
3. Make a Weather Station
4. Start a Wormary

Let’s inspire more kids to learn and grow this summer:

Your child may also enjoy these summer activities…

Here’s how to make your own patriotic activity… 

Disclosure: Amazon referral links used within this post. 

Patriotic Magnetic Sensory Bottle

This Patriotic Magnetic Sensory Bottle can provide your child with hours of fun and fine motor development as they explore with a magnet.  Be sure to seal the bottle tight once all of the treasures are placed inside.

Materials for Magnetic Sensory Bottle

• Strong Magnet (like these)
• Bottle with Lid (these are our favorites)
• Red and Blue Sequins
• White glitter
• White and Red and Blue Jingle Bells 
• Random Plastic Items
• Random Glass Items
• Water

Directions for Magnetic Sensory Bottle

1. Gather supplies for your patriotic magnetic sensory bottle.  We went on a hunt through our craft supplies to find things that were metal, plastic and glass that were red, white and blue. Encourage your child to view things as a scientists as you gather your items.  See what words they will use to describe them from color, shape and what was made to create it.  Once you’re gathered them give them some time to touch and feel the items for additional sensory exploration as well.  I made sure to have White and Red and Blue Jingle Bells  because I knew they would be magnetic.

2.  Get a large clear bottle, these are our favorites ,with a lid to place all of your collected items into.

3. Add all of the red, white and blue items into the container.  This is great for fine motor skills.  Your child will also have to determine if the products will fit into the opening on the container.  A skill we all can work on developing in life.  Set aside a small container for them to place those items into to help keep track.

4. Once all of the items are in the container add a few Red and Blue Sequins 

to add a little patriotic color to the bottle.  We also added white glitter to our bottle to make it sparkle a bit more as well.

5. Now that you have all your red, white and blue items, it’s time to add water.  We filled ours up to the top leaving a little space for air for the items to move around with.  You can also experiment here and add different things like oil or corn syrup to see how they react with the density.

6.  Now it’s time to make things challenging.  Encourage your little one to shake the bottle and see what happens.

Do things float?

Do they sink?

Do the hover?

MAGNETIC Sensory Bottle CHALLENGE:

Can you use your magnet  to find all of the magnetic items?  

Can you make your magnetic items stick together?

As you can see we even were able to stick the magnet to the sides of the bottle and let it stay there all by itself.  The kids were so excited to see that!

What type of force does magnetism have?

Chat with your little scientists to see what types of scientific conversations you can have while they explore this patriotic magnetic sensory Bottle.

There are so many fun ways to explore with this patriotic magnetic sensory bottle. They are great for when family visits or even for the road trip this weekend.  Just be sure to talk with your child about magnet safety and use adult supervision at all time.  When it gets boring surprise them and add a few more magnetic items or a bit more glitter for sparkling fun or even a little bit of baby oil and see how you can change things up.

Sensory Bottle Fun with Science for Kids

If you liked this post you might like our Sensory Bottle Math Activity , Summer Sensory Bottles , Hunt for Gold Sensory Bottle, Science Sensory Bottle Experiment with Density .

FOR MORE 4th OF JULY IDEAS VISIT

 PATRIOTIC PLAY DATE IDEAS FOR KIDS

As a parent, it has been my mission to enrich their after school learning with a minimum of one hands-on science experiment at home every week.

Disclosure: Amazon Affiliate Links used in this post.

Hands-On Science and Math Book Review:  Density Science Experiment

Many thanks to Gryphon House Publishing for sending me the book Hands-On Science and Math: Fun, Fascinating Activities for Young Children.

The author is a teacher and firm believer in STEM at an early age (can you see why I love her already!) She is a National Board Certified teacher with her BA in Elementary Education and masters degree is teaching English to speakers of other languages. Not only that, but, she has made it her mission to provide hands-on science and math to her early childhood programs. This book is a compilation of the kids and teachers favorite activities.

The book is divided up into 5 chapters.

1. Learning and Experimenting
2. Measuring, Identifying, and Classifying
3. Changing, Bubbling, and Rolling
4. Cooking, Looking, and Listening
5. Growing, Adapting, and Exploring Nature

Each lesson is presenting in lesson plan format with the background of the academic concept and what to talk to kids about. These lessons also include a math and literacy connection for students to complete. The materials needed for the activities in are easy to find and include items such as

• bowls
• lids
• water
• Spoons
• Paper
• Markers
• coins
• Paper Towels
• Pipettes
• Magnetic Wand
• Magnifying Glasses
• natural materials
• Unifix Cubes
• Plastic Cups
• Food Colors

Density Science Experiment

I decided to set out an experiment on density and matter for their first after school science lesson.
The directions on how to set up and run the experiment are on page 57 of Hands-On Science and Math: Fun, Fascinating Activities for Young Children.

We talked about the vocabulary

Mass
Volume
Density
Matter

Then the children poured the liquids in and observed.

We discussed the results.

I handed them their science journals and asked them to draw and label the final outcome.

I encouraged them to write a few sentences about the experiment using some of the vocabulary.

More Hands-On Science and Math Resources,

You may enjoy these  education books too:

Science–Not Just for Scientists! Easy Explorations for Young Children

Tinkerlab: A Hands-On Guide for Little Inventors

The Garden Classroom: Hands-On Activities in Math, Science, Literacy, and Art

STEAM: Preschool Activities for STEM Enrichment

If you liked this activity, you may also enjoy these…

My daughter is getting VERY excited about her upcoming week at science camp! In preparation for this amazing week-long summer camp, we are trying to get into the habit of “thinking like a scientist!”  

This week, we focused on solar science experiments and creative problem-solving.

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Solar Science Experiments for Kids

A collection of solar science experiments to try with your child in the backyard to encourage them to “think like a scientist!”

Converting Sunlight into Heat.

We bought this great little kid pool for our backyard and filled it up with cold water right from the faucet. Our baby put his finger in and announced, “COLD pool” and refused to get in. Without filling the pool with water from our home heater, I posed the question:

How can we heat up water the fastest?

This is the solar experiment we decided would best help us answer this question.

Materials Needed:

• 3 identical cups,
• 2 sheets of white paper
• 1 sheet of black.
• 1 plastic lining or plastic bag to cover one cup
• thermometer

Directions.

1. Fill each cup with the same amount of liquid of the same cool temperature.
2. Measure the water temperature and set one cup on each paper. Cover one of the glasses on white paper with plastic.
3. Have a discussion and make predictions about what you think will happen to the water in each glass.
4. Measure
5. Let the water sit in a sunny place for one hour.
6. Remeasure and discuss the results.

What do you think my kids should do to heat up the water in their pool faster?

* Parent tips:

A black background absorbs more heat than a light background.

Covering the cup slows or stops evaporation. The plastic covering may also absorb some of the suns’ rays.

Absorbing and Reflecting Heat: Solar Oven

The kids were fascinated with warming the liquid with the sun and asked, “If the sun can heat up water, what else can it heat up?”  They got to work building their own SOLAR oven using recycled materials.

Materials Needed: (use recycled materials when possible!)

• cardboard box
• black paper
• tinfoil
• saran wrap
• tortilla chips
• shredded cheese

Directions

1. Let your child build their own oven.
   
   My second grader found some black paper (the back was colored on) and started gluing it inside the box.
   
   She then added in some tinfoil, predicting that the foil would reflect the suns rays and heat up her cheese better.
   
   She covered the top with saran wrap in hopes it would heat the nachos faster.
   
2. Set the solar oven in a sunny spot.
3. Add the chips and top with shredded cheese.
4. Set a timer for 5 minutes. Record your results.
5. Once the cheese has melted, eat!
6. Then, if you choose, try to build another model of a solar oven. Make some changes and compare your results.
   
   * THINK like a scientist!!!!*
   
   A scientist will perform experiments over and over again to collect data and to figure out better and more efficient ways of doing things.

* Parent tips:

Some people have tried cooking hot-dogs, nachos are WAY easier!

Keeping a science journal is a great way to connect literacy to science!

Solar Heater: Sun Tea

Now my kids were on a solar experiment role. “Hey, MOM, do you think we could make your tea with energy from the sun instead of wasting electricity to heat your water inside?” Sure kiddos, what will we need to do?

I love that they were thinking creatively, asking questions, and applying what they have learned.

Materials Needed:

• Large glass jar
• Water
• 2 Bags of Tea

Directions.

1. Fill the jar with water.
2. Add 2 tea bags
3. Place in a sunny place
4. Gently shake every once in a while (per the kids instructions)
5. Wait HOURS (they learned the sun is powerful, but does take time to harness the energy)
6. Serve warm OR pour over ice cubes for iced tea!

Solar Prints

You could talk to your kids about the sun and have them make sun-prints. We used the solar sun print kit, but should have just bought the re-fill package ($5.99 vs $10.49) as we just used the paper.

Here’s the directions for How to Make Solar Prints with Kids.

More Ideas for Solar FUN :

• Solar Power STEM Camp Activities
• Studying the effects of the sun and the importance of sun screen at the beach
• Solar Eclipse Videos and Activities for Kids
• Sunshine and Solar Energy Activities for Kids

Solar Energy Books for Kids

• Running on Sunshine: How Does Solar Energy Work? by Carolyn Cinami DeCristofano
• Solar Power: Capturing the Sun’s Energy by Laurie Brearley
• Solar Story: How One Community Lives Alongside the World’s Biggest Solar Plant by Allan Drummond
• Time to Shine! by Catherine Daly

You can explore more sun and solar energy books here in our Summer Books for Kids Book List.

Solar Cars

Now we are going to work on keeping our “science caps” for the rest of the month (we are stopping at a thrift store tomorrow to pick up our take-apart to be used during the camp week.

We are going to be on the lookout for electronics powered by the sun – maybe a calculator with a solar panel?

Whatever it is, I’m sure it will be fun to disassemble and tinker with. I’m thinking we won’t be able to wait until camp and may have to find a couple of items for home too! I’m not sure who is more excited about a whole week of science and inventing – her or me!

Looking for more science activities for your child? Try these…

Have you ever thought about what to do with the leftover Easter egg dye that you use for eggs every year?

Rainbow Sea Shells Science Experiment

I’m going to be honest I never have until this Easter, I guess just because we’re always busy doing other things on Easter with our extended family. This year after we finished my 6 year old daughter asked me what else she could use the Egg Dye for?

I turned to the interest and found that you can color coffee filters, clothespins, yarn, and even Tie Die and paint with your leftover vinegar based egg dye.

However, we wanted something similar to eggs…

We both thought about it and this is what we came up with…Seashells

Now I’ll admit we have quite a few seashells in our sandbox from our many trips to the beach, we’re very lucky to live a few hours from the beach since all of my kids were born. So in 20 years we’re gathered quite a few and use them for playtime.

You’d be amazed at how many ways you can use seashells for imaginary play.

We’ve painted them like these Storytelling Shells but I never thought about dying them.

We brought our containers outside and gathered up our seashells. We washed them off first and let them dry out so they could absorb as much of the vinegar based dye as they could.

That’s ok we have fun playing outdoors in our gorgeous spring weather in the south this weekend.

Coloring the seashells worked out to be a great sibling activity too!

How to Dye Seashells with Kids

Once our seashells were dry we set them inside of the various colors of Egg Dye and watched to see what happened. I wasn’t sure if they would change due to their surface, so it was so much fun to observe and watch as they change. A little science and discovery at home is always a good thing!

We left them in the colored water for around 30 minutes, but honestly experiment to see the variety of results you get… it’s a science experiment with your kids so enjoy!

Here’s how our Dyed Seashells turned out, a rainbow of fun!

Did you throw your dye away already, no worries you could think about grabbing a few egg dye kits on clearance this week and making your own Rainbow Shells this spring!

I think we must just try rocks next!

What would you color next with leftover egg dye?

Want more rainbow ideas? Get our list of Colorful Rainbow Books for Kids.

• Sight Word Sea Shells
• Alphabet Fun with Shells
• Storytelling Shells

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