Science Experiments for All Ages

Even without high-tech equipment, there are many easy, fun at-home science experiments that people can try to explore themes in biology, chemistry, physics, and more. With free time in the summer, or on the weekends, these labs can provide a great opportunity to dive into some hands-on learning and pass the time in a fun way. These labs are made to be easy, enjoyable, and great for all ages. 

1. Crystallizing rock candy

2. Create your own rock candy!

3. Dive into topics about supersaturation, a key concept in chemistry.

4. Guide to follow: https://www.popsci.com/story/diy/make-rock-candy/

1. Skittles Rainbow

2. Place skittles on the edge of a plate, add water, and watch as the skittles create a rainbow.

3. Learn about topics like diffusion, something discussed in biology and chemistry.

4. Guide to follow: https://www.toucanbox.com/activities/skittles-experiment

1. Leak Proof bag

2. Fill a ziploc bag with water, poke holes with pencils into bag.

3. As no water flows out, discover polymers and their properties

4. Guide to follow: https://pagingfunmums.com/2014/05/25/leak-proof-bag-kids-science-experiment/

1. Dissolve eggshell to make “naked” eggs

2. Using vinegar, dissolve part of the eggshell leaving the egg in a more exposed form. 

3. Dive into membrane biology, see first hand how membranes can help with structure.

4. Guide to follow: https://annex.exploratorium.edu/cooking/eggs/activity-nakedexperiment.html

1. Discover the effect of sugary drinks on teeth

2. Use the calcium found in eggshells to examine how sugary drinks can affect teeth!

3. Learn about the scientific reactions that take place during the experiment.

4. Guide to follow: https://feelslikehomeblog.com/what-do-sugary-drinks-do-to-your-teeth-kids-science-experiment/

1. Invisible Ink

2. Use lemon juice and heat to write fun messages in invisible ink!

3. Discover the role of oxidation in this process.

4. Guide to follow: https://www.kiwico.com/diy/stem/quick-easy-experiments/invisible-ink-with-lemon-juice

1. Balloon Rockets

2. Create balloon rockets with string, tape, straws and balloons.

3. Learn about laws of motion, discovering vital themes in physics.

4. Guide to follow: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXk0EAC8jAQ

1. Limestone rocks

2. Look in your backyard for limestone rocks!

3. Test by pouring vinegar on the rock – if bubbling occurs, it is likely limestone!

4. Discover environmental science and biology key themes!

5. Guide to follow: https://www.kcedventures.com/rocks-minerals-a-fun-testing-experiment-for-kids/

1. DNA models

2. Create DNA models from candy like twizzlers and gumdrops! Assemble with toothpicks.

3. Learn more about DNA – a key component of life and biology.

4. Guide to follow: https://hessunacademy.com/edible-dna-model/

1.  Egg drop

2. Try to build a structure that can keep an egg from breaking when dropped from a high place!

3. Explore themes in physics while having fun!

4. Guide to follow: https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PLIhseSrDronJZr7L8kdwMdd-EKzx0RMNS&v=_3_NAu3vWm8&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.weareteachers.com%2F&source_ve_path=Mjg2NjY&feature=emb_logo