Summer Science: Chemistry Experiments for Kiddos!

Make a decision about your DIY Chemistry kit.  Will the experiments be edible or not?  You don’t want your child to eat something contaminated by glue.  You may want to keep a set of equipment dedicated to edible chemistry in the kitchen, on top of the fridge.  Okay!  These experiments are just, plain fun!  I’m in the process of collecting experiments for fall’s Chem and Phys class and next year’s Science Camp, All the Hits! (I just started collecting materials.)  Below is a list of my favorites.  I’m hunting for more ideas because my kiddos have done most of these.  I’ll keep you posted.

 ACS Adventures in Chemistry is designed for kiddos.  There are over 30 experiments. Celebrating Chemistry  has archives full of past years’ experiments for kids, part of National Chemistry Week celebrations. Sample the activties in  this issue, Material World.  Don’t forget this classic, Indicator Blues with red cabbage.  I keep Jiffy Juice red cabbage powder on hand.

 The Exploratorium is another good sources: Inverted Bottles, Penny Battery, and Separation Anxiety (Chromatography)—might feel more like school than summer fun.

National Geographic’s Science Lab has all the classics, such as Elephant’s Toothpaste, Lava Lamp, Color Explosion,  etc—with videos.  This site is not breaking new ground; however, the instructions are clear for newbies.

Make Hand Chalk.  You are making a precipitate.  Here are additional instructions from ACS.

Sure, use 9 Slime Recipes.  Arm and Hammer has 5 Ways to Make Slime with Baking Soda.  Time for Slime is from ACS; it’s the classic white glue and borax recipe, if your child is are comfortable with borax. (Years ago, I had a teen who experienced a skin reaction to borax.  He was on Accutane for severe acne, rising the likelihood of a skin reaction.  We sent him to the nurse.  He bandaged his own hands with toilet paper and returned to class. Evidently, the nurse wasn’t concerned.  For the rest of the year, we didn’t take any chances with the student touching any chemicals. Ever.  Yes, the student dined out on his experience for months whenever we had lab.)  Make Magnetic Slime.  (We just add iron filings.)