When it comes to learning about science, most students seem to learn the best when they have a hands-on activity to help teach the lesson. Whether it’s an experiment in the lab, using a microscope to study cells, or learning about chemical properties by building a volcano or lava lamp, the kids seem to have an easier time grasping the concepts of those lessons. No matter if you’re a homeschool family like we are or just want extra science help at home, you have to check out these products for Hands-On Science Learning by Educational Insights.
Nancy B’s Science Club® Stir-It-Up Chemistry Lab & Kitchen Experiments Journal
Perform cool chemistry experiments in your kitchen! Perfect for STEM learning at home, junior chemists can safely explore simple scientific principles including extinguishing a flame with invisible gas; making their own bubbling “lava” in a bottle; causing chemicals to change color; and more. Includes 22-page activity journal packed with kitchen chemistry experiments.
Psst…They’re Learning!
- Supports STEM learning and introduces learners to real science tools
- Offers foundation of basic chemical principles
- Introduction to conducting safe and fun science experiments
- Encourages self-discovery
Cut to the Chase
- Set of 11 reusable chemistry tools including beaker, 4 test tubes, test tube rack, graduated cylinder, lab glasses, dropper, funnel, beaker, and stirring rod
- 22-Page activity journal filled with experiments using common household ingredients
Nancy B’s Science Club® Microscope & Activity Journal
Zoom in on the fun with the Nancy B Microscope! This 2-in-1 light and dissecting microscope gives up-close views—30x, 100x, and 400x magnifications—of anything you can imagine, from peacock feathers and goldfish scales to your own skin and cheek cells. The included keepsake journal features 22 pages of fun science experiments for kids and activities from observation to creative writing, drawing, and more.
Psst…They’re Learning!
- Introduces learners to a real science tool
- Conduct safe and fun science experiments/activities
- Parent-free learning
- Encourages self-discovery
Cut to the Chase
- 2-in-1 Light and dissecting microscope with 30x, 100x, and 400x magnifications
- Full set of science tools: tweezers, scalpel, petri dish, spatula, stirring rod, test tube, pipette, 7 cover slips and slide labels, 4 prepared slides, 7 blank slides, and specimen vial)
- Rubber eye cup ensures comfort while observing
- 22-Page activity journal
- Requires 3 AAA batteries (not included)
My Thoughts
When my kids are young and in preschool, they definitely like to learn with their hands, not just their ears or eyes. And of course, we accommodate that because we know that kids learn with all of their senses. Now, as they get older, we tend to move towards listening and watching to learn about topics, but you still see a flash of understanding when they can complete an activity that goes with the lesson. This can be hard to do in some subjects, but even then, they learn by practice and examples.
The same holds true for science, whether they are learning about Chemistry, Biology, Astronomy, etc. True, they still need the book/lecture learning part of education, but I believe they also need to learn about the principles by completing hands-on demonstrations. For example, learning about the reaction of vinegar and baking soda or adding antacids to hot or cold water. These two kits that I mentioned above are perfect to help the kids learn about science at home, whether for extra homework practice or because you’re teaching them yourself.
With the Chemistry and Kitchen Experiment set, the kids had a great time learning about lab safety, guessing what might happen, completing the lesson, and then talking & writing about their observations and conclusions.
They will use these same basic skills as they continue to take higher level science classes, so it’s a great way to get them introduced to these thought processes.
And yes while some experiments will need to be taken seriously, there is always room for a little science fun!
Where better than in your science lab can you create and then enjoy your concoction?
The kids had already had experience with a microscope itself, but this is a great introductory kit that taught them how to prepare slides, use tools like tweezers and test tubes, and of course, they had to document what they observed in the activity journal that was included. I personally like the combination of all of these skills because it helped them learn faster and kept their attention even though they still had to write or think things through. And if you’re kids are interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) learning, then these would make a great addition to your home learning space whether you use them to go along with your current science lessons or as alternative activities when you need them.
These Nancy B’s Science Club®kits are definitely intended for kids ages 8-12 so they can do a lot of it on their own. I found it was great to let the older kids follow instructions on their own while still being available for help or doing them together with an age range of kids so the younger ones weren’t left out because of the difficulty level on their own. Educational Insights offers a number of educational and fun toys and games terrific for the whole family. And there are other science kits in this product line if your kids really enjoy them. Be sure to learn more about these hands-on science learning kits for the Chemistry Lab & Kitchen Experiments as well as the Microscope and Activity Journal for your kids or classroom!
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We’ve added these Hands-On Science Learning Kits to our 2018 Valentine’s Day Gift Guide! Check it out here!
