Friends have told me they like joint science projects for their families, especially large families. Summer is a great time for hands-on family science. I checked out “365 Simple Science Experiments” from the library. (Used copies are available for $5-$6. Start with a theme. 365 Simple Science has Slow Start-Fast Finish, Keeping Your Balance, Soap Suds, Adventures with a String, and World Travelers. Read over the experiments to see if you have the materials on hand, and let the kids select several activities.
I like this book. Clutching at Straws begins with how to make a paper straw and use it as a medicine dropper, atomizer, oboe, and trombone. My favorite in this section is spearing a potato with a straw. Will a homemade straw work as well as a plastic straw? Each section has a brief explanation. For example, the straw through the potato demonstrates inertia. The index in the book has other experiments which demonstrate inertia.
Let your kids take the lead. Pick an interesting topic, try three experiments, and reevaluate. Take loads of photos. Do video demonstrations with explanations. I would encourage older kids to take charge and organize the experiments. Have them research the topic and explanations. Schedule one hour blocks of time. Have the materials set aside and ready. Give summer science a shot.
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