What is Awesome Science Experiments for Kids about?
Awesome Science Experiments for Kids is a hands-on STEAM experiment book with 105 projects that teach kids how to think like scientists. It covers Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math, and explains why each experiment works.
Who is Awesome Science Experiments for Kids for?
This book is designed for kids ages 5 to 10. It’s also written for parents and educators who want simple, engaging experiments to do with kids.
Who wrote Awesome Science Experiments for Kids?
Awesome Science Experiments for Kids was written by Crystal Chatterton. She also runs ScienceKiddo.com, where she shares STEAM activities for kids.
How many experiments are in Awesome Science Experiments for Kids?
There are 105 experiments and projects in the book. They’re spread across five STEAM categories plus a final “Putting It All Together” section.
What kinds of topics do the experiments cover (STEM/STEAM)?
The experiments cover science concepts like density, pressure, chemical reactions, and light, plus technology topics like circuits and magnets. You’ll also find engineering builds, art projects powered by science, and math-based measuring and graphing activities.
Does the book explain the science behind each experiment?
Yes—each experiment ends with a “The Hows and Whys” section that explains what’s happening in simple terms. Many experiments also include observation questions to help kids think more deeply.
Is this book more like a step-by-step guide or a science workbook?
It’s a step-by-step experiment guide with interactive, workbook-style features. Each activity includes materials, clear steps, observation prompts, and an extension idea (“Now Try This!”).
Do you have to do the experiments in order?
No—the experiments are designed to work independently, so you can pick and choose based on what looks fun or what materials you have. The book is organized by STEAM category, and experiments are also cross-referenced with icons and an index.
How long do the experiments usually take?
Many experiments are quick and designed for immediate results, often 10 to 30 minutes. Some take longer, such as overnight crystal growing (about 12 hours), a “naked egg” soak (24 hours), or multi-day observations like rusting metal (7 days) or sprouting beans (7–10 days).
Are the experiments beginner-friendly?
Yes—each experiment includes a difficulty level (often “Easy,” sometimes “Medium”) and an estimated time from start to finish. The instructions are written to be simple and clear for kids and adults to follow.
Do kids need an adult to do these experiments?
Often, yes—the book notes that most experiments are designed for an adult-and-child team. Older kids may be able to do many experiments on their own, but some activities require adult help for safety (like handling hot water, flames, sharp tools, or certain chemicals).
What kinds of supplies do I need for these science experiments?
Most experiments use common household and kitchen items like cups, water, baking soda, vinegar, paper towels, and food coloring. Some chapters list a few specialty items, such as LEDs and alligator-clip wires for circuits, vinyl tubing for a submarine experiment, or a laser pointer for a laser maze.
Are there safety warnings for messy or hazardous experiments?
Yes—many experiments include a “Caution” note when adult help is needed or when an activity should be done outside. Examples include experiments involving hot glass, open flames, hydrogen peroxide, dry ice, lasers, or projects that can pop, launch, or make a mess.
Does the book teach the scientific method?
Yes—the introduction walks kids through the steps of the scientific method, including asking a question, forming a hypothesis, testing, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions. The experiments are structured to reinforce those habits with questions and observations.
Does Awesome Science Experiments for Kids include experiments with electricity and circuits?
Yes—the Technology chapter includes activities like building a simple circuit to test conductivity, making paper circuit art with LEDs, and creating batteries using lemons or pennies. The chapter also lists the electronic supplies needed for those projects.
Does the book include ways to extend or modify experiments?
Yes—each experiment includes a “Now Try This!” section with variations and follow-up challenges. These extensions encourage kids to change variables, test new materials, and design their own experiments.
If I want science experiments that use mostly household materials, will this book work for me?
Yes—most experiments are designed to use materials you already have at home or can find inexpensively at a store. The book also calls out the few experiments that may require specialty supplies so you can plan ahead.
