Aug 31, 2023 · 8. Pepper and soap experiment. Dish soap, pepper, a toothpick, and a little bit of water are all kids need to feel like science wizards. Watch a little drop of soap chase pepper away in the pepper and soap experiment. 9. Balloon carbon dioxide experiment. Create carbon dioxide and hang on while you use it to fill up a balloon. 10. Skittles ... ... Dec 16, 2024 · While some experiments require expensive lab equipment or dangerous chemicals, there are plenty of cool projects you can do with regular household items. We’ve rounded up a big collection of easy science experiments that anybody can try, and kids are going to love them! Jump to: Easy Chemistry Science Experiments; Easy Physics Science Experiments ... Cool Science Experiments with Household Items. The best thing about all these experiments for kids is that you can do them all with items right in your pantry, or cleaning cabinet. Shaving cream, baking soda, vinegar… you’d be very surprised what these basic household items can do with just a little imagination. Simple Science Experiments ... ... Simple Science Experiments with Water. Not only can water be a blast to play in, but water plus a few basic supplies equals a lot of science fun!. Make an orange sink and float with an orange buoyancy experiment from Playdough to Plato. ... Mar 23, 2020 · Here are 31 easy science experiments using common household […] Finding My Inner Glow – Angel-Sansara July 11, 2022 At 9:43 pm Science experiment time! ... Sep 29, 2017 · Easy Science Experiments for Kids. These experiments are best suited for 3-6 year olds I think. But honestly I really like them, so maybe they’re for all ages! I’ve included any of the ingredients that you may or may not have on hand so you can easily pick an experiment that you can do right away! 1. Shaving Cream Rain Clouds ... Nov 28, 2024 · So I’ve put together 101 cheap budget science experiments for kids! These cheap science experiments utilise common household items, inexpensive basic lab materials, or items you can get at the dollar store. These experiments are so much fun to do at home with your kids on rainy days, or to use in a science lab on a low budget. ... And you won’t have to make a special trip to the craft or hardware store – almost all of these fun science experiments use common household ingredients that you probably already have at home. Score! So what are you waiting for – dive right in and have some science fun! PIN for when you’re ready to perform a fun science experiment: ... These science experiments for kids using household items are designed to be simple, safe, and perfect for all ages. The steps outlined here are for educational purpose only and results may differ. Keep in mind that this post is to show the children a practical understanding of scientific principles and for them to see the results of their ... ... Nov 23, 2024 · Simple Science Experiments. Take kitchen science to the next level with simple ingredients and common household items. Explore chemical reactions at home with this fun (and safe) science experiment, Chemical Reactions with Pennies. How are crayons made? Try this fun Melting Crayons Science Experiment experiment with your old broken crayons. ... ">
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Adirondacks, hamptons & north fork, poconos guide, jersey shore guide, our latest videos, 67 easy science experiments for kids to do at home.

Searching for kid-friendly science experiments to do at home? Whether you're prepping for a fifth-grade science fair or want something fun to do with preschoolers, these cool science experiments for kids are super easy and a lot of fun for kids of all ages. Parents may end up learning a new thing or two, too!

Children are born scientists. They're always experimenting with something, whether they're throwing a plate of spaghetti on the wall, blowing bubbles in the bathwater, or stacking blocks into an intricate tower only to destroy it in one big swipe. Happily, you can do some pretty mind-blowing, hands-on science experiments at home using stuff you probably have lying around the house.

Want even more science experiments for kids like this? Check out our list of 25 Preschool Science Experiments , and more, in our Guide to Science Experiments for Kids , which is packed with fun STEM activities.

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Popular  KiwiCo ,  Green Kid Crafts , and Mel Chemistry subscription boxes send age-appropriate projects every month, so you never run out of science experiments you can do at home.

experiments with household objects

Coolest Science Experiments for Kids at Home

1. make rock candy.

Learn about the crystallization process by learning how to make rock candy in a glass .

2. Make a lava lamp

Make a  lava lamp  by pouring vegetable oil into water and then adding an Alka-Seltzer tablet to make the blob of oil move.

3. Make homemade slime

Borax plus glue equals  homemade slime .

4. Frozen bubbles

Blow bubbles outside when temperatures dip to the single digits and watch them freeze .

5. Invisible Ink

Use lemon juice to  make invisible ink  that can only be seen when held up to a heat source.

6. Walking rainbows

Use food coloring and water to make a walking rainbow and explore how combining primary colors makes secondary colors.

7. Paper towel art/magic

This paper towel art magic trick , which also involves science for an added bonus. Permanent and washable markers make art and teach about solubility at the same time.

RELATED: 1000s of Boredom Busters for Kids

experiments with household objects

8. Pepper and soap experiment

Dish soap, pepper, a toothpick, and a little bit of water are all kids need to feel like science wizards. Watch a little drop of soap chase pepper away in the pepper and soap experiment .

9. Balloon carbon dioxide experiment

Create carbon dioxide and hang on while you use it to fill up a balloon.

10. Skittles science experiment

Learn about a phenomenon called water stratification, using Skittles as the subject matter . Perfect for after Halloween!

Fun Science Experiments Using Household Staples

11. marshmallow catapult.

Build a  marshmallow catapult  out of a plastic spoon, rubber bands, and Popsicle sticks.

12. Make a parachute for toys

Use a plastic bag and cup to  build a parachute for a light toy .

13. Dye flowers with food coloring

Place white flowers in colored water and  watch how they soak up the hues .

RELATED: 50 Magna-Tiles Games and Building Ideas for Kids

experiments with household objects

14. Baking soda lemon juice experiment

Create a colorful and fizzy reaction by adding a drop of food coloring and a little baking soda to a  sliced lemon . 

15. Make homemade butter

Make your own butter by  shaking a jar of heavy cream .

16. Homemade ice cream in a bag

Make homemade ice cream in a bag : shake salt, ice, cream, and sugar vigorously until the consistency is right, then enjoy.

17. Do oil and water mix?

Plop oil into water to see that they really don't mix; try it with a variety of liquids to make a rainbow of stripes.

RELATED:   25 Exercise Games to Do with Kids Indoors

experiments with household objects

18. Egg in a bottle experiment

Force an  egg to fit into a bottle  by creating a suction using heat.

19. Floating eggs

Change how an egg floats or sinks in a glass by adding salt to the water.

20. Turn milk into plastic

Turn milk into a  material that acts like plastic  using white vinegar.

21. Thriving yeast experiment

Mix a batch of bread dough and separate it into several different bowls; place them in different places (outside, inside, in the dark, in the light) to see which environment yeast thrives in.

22. How does mold grow?

Grow mold on bread by putting slices in different environments (in a bag in the dark, in a bag in the sunlight, out in the open, in the refrigerator); see which one gets moldy first.

23. The taste-smell connection

Have your kids close their eyes and hold their noses and see if they can still identify foods by taste.

24. Make easy homemade cheese

Dabble in some kitchen science while making this yummy  ricotta cheese .

RELATED: 75 Indoor Activities for Kids for Rainy Days

experiments with household objects

25. Make an eggshell disappear

Your egg will be so embarrassed when you leave it naked!  Dissolve  the shell right off an egg by simply placing it in a cup of vinegar.

26. Make a taste bud map

Map taste buds by dipping Q-tips into different flavors and placing them on different areas of your tongue.

27. Find the fatty food with a simple trick

Explore the fat content of different foods by wiping them on a brown paper bag; fatty foods leave behind a greasy spot, while fruits and vegetables leave no trace at all.

experiments with household objects

Slime, Putty, and Oobleck Science Experiments for Kids

28. silly putty recipe.

You will be squeaky clean after creating this satisfying non-sticky putty by simply combining cornstarch and dish soap.

29. Easy Oobleck recipe

Whip up some  Oobleck , a fascinating non-Newtonian fluid that can act like a solid or a liquid depending on certain conditions.

30. Ivory soap in microwave

Microwave Ivory soap (or any soap that floats) to create a bizarre puffy soufflé .

Outdoor and Nature Science Experiments

31. grow beans.

Grow a bean in a clear cup to watch the roots grow down and the stem grow up.

32. Make a duck call/whistle from a straw

Craft a duck call by cutting the ends of a straw into a point, then blow.

33. Musical bottles

Set up a row of bottles with varying amounts of liquid and then blow across the openings to hear the different tones.

34. How to make a sundial

Make a sundial  by placing a stick in a vertical position and a circle of rocks around it marking each hour.

35. Cut ice cubes like magic

Cut ice in half  using a fishing wire—the pressure melts the ice faster than the air.

36. Make a rainbow

Make a rainbow by holding a glass of water up to the sunlight with a sheet of paper behind it to catch the colors.

37. Tornado in a bottle

Create a tornado in a bottle by taping two plastic bottles together neck to neck—one filled, the other empty—and swirling it quickly.

38. How to make a solar oven

S’more science, please! Harness the power of the sun and turn a pizza box into a  solar oven  and roast some delicious treats for the whole family.

experiments with household objects

Science Experiments for Kids that Fizz, Bubble, and Foam

39. baking soda volcano science project.

Mix baking soda, vinegar, and glitter for a  sparkly volcano .

40. Diet Coke and Mentos

Mix  Diet Coke and Mentos  and stand back to watch the explosion. (Really! Stand back.)

41. Pop Rocks and soda

Drop Pop Rocks into a bottle of soda and then place a balloon onto the opening to watch it inflate .

42. What will shine a penny?

Discover how to keep your  pennies shiny  by experimenting with different cleaning solutions. 

43. How to make elephant toothpaste

Make " elephant toothpaste " (a.k.a. an impressive large foam) out of soap, yeast, and hydrogen peroxide. For the holidays, turn it into " reindeer toothpaste ."

44. Glitter germ experiment

This  glitter  does more than shine, it sparks a scientific experiment to see how far germs can spread.

45. Dancing popcorn experiment

Baking soda and vinegar react to make popcorn kernels hop around a jar of water. 

46. Fizzy chalk fireworks with sidewalk chalk

This STEM activity adds some sizzle to your summertime sidewalk chalk using just a few basic ingredients: baking soda, cornstarch, food coloring, and vinegar.

Physics and Physical Science Experiments for Kids

47. milk and food coloring experiment.

Learn about surface tension by  dropping food coloring into milk  and watch as the colors move when you add some soap.

48. Rube Goldberg machine for kids

Make a Rube Goldberg machine featuring a series of moving pieces that affect one another: marbles, dominoes, books, and most any surface.

49. Balloon rocket car

Build a  rocket balloon car  using a Styrofoam tray, a balloon, and a straw; watch how air pressure moves it across the table.

50. Dominant eye / dominant hand

Looking for hands-on science experiments? Ask your kids to do simple tasks with their hands, feet, and eyes (like grab a ball, stand on one foot, or wink) to see which side is dominant.

51. Reaction time test

Test your reaction time by having a friend drop a ruler between two almost closed fingers. See how fast you can grab it.

52. Soap boats

Explore the scientific concept of density while taking a bath.  Ivory soap boats  do more than just float, they demonstrate density.

RELATED:  40 Snow Day Boredom Busters for Kids

experiments with household objects

53. Paper cup tower activity

Engineer a tall tower using red party cups and sheets of paper. How high can you go? 

54. Best paper airplane design

Fold a paper airplane and then bend a corner to see how that changes its flight path.

55. Blind spots

Find your blind spot by moving a card with a speck on it until you can no longer see the spot.

56. Build a miniature windmill

Build a miniature windmill using a few simple objects. Watch it spin faster or slower based on the direction of the "blades."

57. Simple energy transfer experiment

Bounce a ball on top of another to watch how the energy transfers to the top ball and leaves the bottom one "dead."

58. Easy centripetal force experiment

Demonstrate centripetal force by  spinning a bucket of water on a rope in a vertical circle .

More Easy Science Experiments for Kids

59. egg drop project.

Build a container for an egg that protects it from breaking and then test it out by dropping it from on high.

60. How to make a bouncy ball

Fashion your own bouncy balls with this  recipe  to see how various shapes bounce differently.

61. Balloon speakers

Use a balloon to amplify sound by holding it to your ear.

62. Shaving cream cloud experiment

Budding meteorologists can create shaving cream storm clouds and Technicolor raindrops.

63. Balloon static electricity

Make static electricity by rubbing balloons on clothing or shuffling on the carpet with socks, then zap someone with a quick touch.

experiments with household objects

64. Gummy bear science experiment

These gummies won’t be so yummy in your tummy, but you can watch  gummy bears grow  by placing them in water, salt water, and vinegar.

65. Make a periscope

Build your own periscope using a milk container and carefully angled mirrors that allow you to see things above or behind you.

66. Fingerprint science experiment

Be a DIY spy with this fun fingerprint experiment. Collect fingerprints using one of these methods , and then dive a little deeper with a forensic study of fingerprint patterns .

67. Expanding ice experiment

Fill a plastic bottle to the brim with water and put it in the freezer; in a few hours, the bottle will crack because ice expands.

This article may contain some affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission if you make a purchase. There is no extra cost to the reader. We only recommend products and services that we have personally used or have thoroughly researched.

This article was first published in 2014, but it has since been updated. Additional reporting and photos by Ally Noel except where noted.

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76 Easy Science Experiments Using Materials You Already Have On Hand

Because science doesn’t have to be complicated.

WAT easy science experiments feature

If there is one thing that is guaranteed to get your students excited, it’s a good science experiment! While some experiments require expensive lab equipment or dangerous chemicals, there are plenty of cool projects you can do with regular household items. We’ve rounded up a big collection of easy science experiments that anybody can try, and kids are going to love them!

Easy Chemistry Science Experiments

Easy physics science experiments, easy biology and environmental science experiments, easy engineering experiments and stem challenges.

Also, be sure to grab your free printable science experiment recording sheet to use with any of the experiments below.

third grade science experiments

1. Taste the rainbow

Teach your students about diffusion while creating a beautiful and tasty rainbow. Tip: Have extra Skittles on hand so your class can eat a few!

Learn more: Skittles Diffusion

Colorful rock candy on wooden sticks

2. Crystallize sweet treats

Crystal science experiments teach kids about supersaturated solutions. This one is easy to do at home, and the results are absolutely delicious!

Learn more: Rock Candy Experiment

3. Make a volcano erupt

This classic experiment demonstrates a chemical reaction between baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and vinegar (acetic acid), which produces carbon dioxide gas, water, and sodium acetate.

Learn more: Baking Soda Volcano (Guide + Printable Reflection Sheet)

4. Make elephant toothpaste

This fun project uses yeast and a hydrogen peroxide solution to create overflowing “elephant toothpaste.” Tip: Add an extra fun layer by having kids create toothpaste wrappers for plastic bottles.

Learn more: Elephant Toothpaste (Guide + Printable Reflection Sheet)

5. Blow the biggest bubbles you can

Add a few simple ingredients to dish soap solution to create the largest bubbles you’ve ever seen! Kids learn about surface tension as they engineer these bubble-blowing wands.

Learn more: Giant Soap Bubbles (Guide + Printable Reflection Sheet)

6. Demonstrate the “magic” leakproof bag

All you need is a zip-top plastic bag, sharp pencils, and water to blow your kids’ minds. Once they’re suitably impressed, teach them how the “trick” works by explaining the chemistry of polymers.

Learn more: Leakproof Bag (Guide + Printable Reflection Sheet)

Several apple slices are shown on a clear plate. There are cards that label what they have been immersed in (including salt water, sugar water, etc.) (easy science experiments)

7. Use apple slices to learn about oxidation

Have students make predictions about what will happen to apple slices when immersed in different liquids, then put those predictions to the test. Have them record their observations.

Learn more: Apple Oxidation

8. Float a marker man

Their eyes will pop out of their heads when you “levitate” a stick figure right off the table! This experiment works due to the insolubility of dry-erase marker ink in water, combined with the lighter density of the ink.

Learn more: Floating Marker Man

Mason jars stacked with their mouths together, with one color of water on the bottom and another color on top

9. Discover density with hot and cold water

There are a lot of easy science experiments you can do with density. This one is extremely simple, involving only hot and cold water and food coloring, but the visuals make it appealing and fun.

Learn more: Hot and Cold Water Science Experiment

Clear cylinder layered with various liquids in different colors

10. Layer more liquids

This density demo is a little more complicated, but the effects are spectacular. Slowly layer liquids like honey, dish soap, water, and rubbing alcohol in a glass. Kids will be amazed when the liquids float one on top of the other like magic (except it is really science).

Learn more: Layered Liquids

Giant carbon snake growing out of a tin pan full of sand

11. Grow a carbon sugar snake

Easy science experiments can still have impressive results. This eye-popping chemical reaction demonstration only requires simple supplies like sugar, baking soda, and sand.

Learn more: Carbon Sugar Snake

12. Mix up some slime

Tell kids you’re going to make slime at home, and watch their eyes light up! There are a variety of ways to make slime, so try a few different recipes to find the one you like best.

Learn more: 4 Slime Recipes (Guide + Printable Reflection Sheet)

Two children are shown (without faces) bouncing balls on a white table (easy science experiments)

13. Make homemade bouncy balls

These homemade bouncy balls are easy to make since all you need is glue, food coloring, borax powder, cornstarch, and warm water. You’ll want to store them inside a container like a plastic egg because they will flatten out over time.

Learn more: Make-Your-Own Bouncy Balls

Pink sidewalk chalk stick sitting on a paper towel

14. Create eggshell chalk

Eggshells contain calcium, the same material that makes chalk. Grind them up and mix them with flour, water, and food coloring to make your very own sidewalk chalk.

Learn more: Eggshell Chalk

15. Make naked eggs

This is so cool! Use vinegar to dissolve the calcium carbonate in an eggshell to discover the membrane underneath that holds the egg together. Then, use the “naked” egg for another easy science experiment that demonstrates osmosis .

Learn more: Egg and Vinegar Experiment (Guide + Printable Reflection Sheet)

16. Turn milk into plastic

This sounds a lot more complicated than it is, but don’t be afraid to give it a try. Use simple kitchen supplies to create plastic polymers from plain old milk. Sculpt them into cool shapes when you’re done.

Student using a series of test tubes filled with pink liquid (easy science experiments)

17. Test pH using cabbage

Teach kids about acids and bases without needing pH test strips. Simply boil some red cabbage and use the resulting water to test various substances—acids turn red and bases turn green.

Learn more: Cabbage pH

Pennies in small cups of liquid labeled coca cola, vinegar + salt, apple juice, water, catsup, and vinegar. Text reads Cleaning Coins Science Experiment. Step by step procedure and explanation.

18. Clean some old coins

Use common household items to make old oxidized coins clean and shiny again in this simple chemistry experiment. Ask kids to predict (hypothesize) which will work best, then expand the learning by doing some research to explain the results.

Learn more: Cleaning Coins

Glass bottle with bowl holding three eggs, small glass with matches sitting on a box of matches, and a yellow plastic straw, against a blue background

19. Pull an egg into a bottle

This classic easy science experiment never fails to delight. Use the power of air pressure to suck a hard-boiled egg into a jar, no hands required.

Learn more: Egg in a Bottle

20. Blow up a balloon without blowing

Chances are good you probably did easy science experiments like this when you were in school. The baking soda and vinegar balloon experiment demonstrates the reactions between acids and bases when you fill a bottle with vinegar and a balloon with baking soda.

Learn more: Baking Soda and Vinegar Balloon (Guide + Printable Reflection Sheet)

21. Assemble a DIY lava lamp

This 1970s trend is back—as an easy science experiment! This activity combines acid-base reactions with density for a totally groovy result.

Four colored cups containing different liquids, with an egg in each (easy science experiments)

22. Explore how sugary drinks affect teeth

The calcium content of eggshells makes them a great stand-in for teeth. Use eggs to explore how soda and juice can stain teeth and wear down the enamel. Expand your learning by trying different toothpaste-and-toothbrush combinations to see how effective they are.

Learn more: Sugar and Teeth Experiment

23. Mummify a hot dog

If your kids are fascinated by the Egyptians, they’ll love learning to mummify a hot dog! No need for canopic jars , just grab some baking soda and get started.

24. Extinguish flames with carbon dioxide

This is a fiery twist on acid-base experiments. Light a candle and talk about what fire needs in order to survive. Then, create an acid-base reaction and “pour” the carbon dioxide to extinguish the flame. The CO2 gas acts like a liquid, suffocating the fire.

I Love You written in lemon juice on a piece of white paper, with lemon half and cotton swabs

25. Send secret messages with invisible ink

Turn your kids into secret agents. Write messages with a paintbrush dipped in lemon juice, then hold the paper over a heat source and watch the invisible become visible as oxidation goes to work.

Learn more: Invisible Ink

26. Create dancing popcorn

This is a fun version of the classic baking soda and vinegar experiment, perfect for the younger crowd. The bubbly mixture causes popcorn to dance around in the water.

Learn more: Dancing Popcorn (Guide + Printable Reflection Sheet)

27. Shoot a soda geyser sky-high

You’ve always wondered if this really works, so it’s time to find out for yourself. Kids will marvel at the chemical reaction that sends diet soda shooting high in the air when Mentos are added.

Learn more: Mentos and Coke Experiment (Guide + Printable Reflection Sheet)

Empty tea bags burning into ashes (easy science experiments)

28. Send a teabag flying

Hot air rises, and this experiment can prove it. You’ll want to supervise kids with fire, of course. For added safety, try this one outside.

Learn more: Flying Tea Bags

29. Create magic milk

This fun and easy science experiment demonstrates principles related to surface tension, molecular interactions, and fluid dynamics.

Learn more: Magic Milk Experiment (Guide + Printable Reflection Sheet)

Two side-by-side shots of an upside-down glass over a candle in a bowl of water, with water pulled up into the glass in the second picture

30. Watch the water rise

Learn about Charles’s law with this simple experiment. As the candle burns, using up oxygen and heating the air in the glass, the water rises as if by magic.

Learn more: Rising Water Experiment

Glasses filled with colored water, with paper towels running from one to the next (easy science experiments)

31. Learn about capillary action

Kids will be amazed as they watch the colored water move from glass to glass, and you’ll love the easy and inexpensive setup. Gather some water, paper towels, and food coloring to teach the scientific magic of capillary action.

Learn more: Capillary Action

A pink balloon has a face drawn on it. It is hovering over a plate with salt and pepper on it

32. Give a balloon a beard

Equally educational and fun, this experiment will teach kids about static electricity using everyday materials. Kids will get a kick out of creating beards on their balloon people!

Learn more: Static Electricity

DIY compass made from a needle floating in water

33. Find your way with a DIY compass

Here’s an old classic that never fails to impress. Magnetize a needle, float it on the water’s surface, and it will always point north.

Learn more: How To Make a Compass

34. Crush a can using air pressure

Sure, it’s easy to crush a soda can with your bare hands, but what if you could do it without touching it at all? That’s the power of air pressure!

A large piece of cardboard has a white circle in the center with a pencil standing upright in the middle of the circle. Rocks are on all four corners holding it down. (easy science experiments)

35. Tell time using the sun

While people use clocks or even phones to tell time today, there was a time when a sundial was the best means to do that. Kids can create their own sundials using everyday materials like cardboard and pencils.

Learn more: Make Your Own Sundial

36. Launch a bottle rocket

Grab a cork, plastic bottle, cardboard, duct tape, and bike pump to learn about the laws of motion.

Learn more: Bottle Rocket (Guide + Printable Reflection Sheet)

Steel wool sitting in an aluminum tray. The steel wool appears to be on fire.

37. Make sparks with steel wool

All you need is steel wool and a 9-volt battery to perform this science demo that’s bound to make their eyes light up! Kids learn about chain reactions, chemical changes, and more.

Learn more: Steel Wool Electricity

38. Levitate a Ping-Pong ball

This experiment is really all about Bernoulli’s principle. You only need plastic bottles, bendy straws, and Ping-Pong balls to make the science magic happen.

Colored water in a vortex in a plastic bottle

39. Whip up a tornado in a bottle

There are plenty of versions of this classic experiment out there, but we love this one because it sparkles. Kids learn about a vortex and what it takes to create one.

Learn more: Tornado in a Bottle

Homemade barometer using a tin can, rubber band, and ruler (easy science experiments)

40. Monitor air pressure with a DIY barometer

This simple but effective DIY science project teaches kids about air pressure and meteorology. They’ll have fun tracking and predicting the weather with their very own barometer.

Learn more: How To Make a Barometer

A child holds up a pice of ice to their eye as if it is a magnifying glass. (easy science experiments)

41. Peer through an ice magnifying glass

Students will certainly get a thrill out of seeing how an everyday object like a piece of ice can be used as a magnifying glass. Be sure to use purified or distilled water since tap water will have impurities in it that will cause distortion.

Learn more: Ice Magnifying Glass

Piece of twine stuck to an ice cube

42. String up some sticky ice

Can you lift an ice cube using just a piece of string? This quick experiment teaches you how. Use a little salt to melt the ice and then refreeze the ice with the string attached.

Learn more: Sticky Ice

Drawing of a hand with the thumb up and a glass of water

43. “Flip” a drawing with water

Light refraction causes some really cool effects, and there are multiple easy science experiments you can do with it. This one uses refraction to “flip” a drawing; you can also try the famous “disappearing penny” trick .

Learn more: Light Refraction With Water

44. Color some flowers

We love how simple this project is to re-create since all you’ll need are some white carnations, food coloring, glasses, and water. The end result is just so beautiful!

45. Use glitter to fight germs

Everyone knows that glitter is just like germs—it gets everywhere and is so hard to get rid of! Use that to your advantage and show kids how soap fights glitter and germs.

Plastic bag with clouds and sun drawn on it, with a small amount of blue liquid at the bottom

46. Re-create the water cycle in a bag

You can do so many easy science experiments with a simple zip-top bag. Fill one partway with water and set it on a sunny windowsill to see how the water evaporates up and eventually “rains” down.

Learn more: Water Cycle in a Bag and Water Cycle Lesson Slides and Video

Plastic zipper bag tied around leaves on a tree (easy science experiments)

47. Learn about plant transpiration

Your backyard is a terrific place for easy science experiments. Grab a plastic bag and rubber band to learn how plants get rid of excess water they don’t need, a process known as transpiration.

Learn more: Plant Transpiration

Students sit around a table that has a tin pan filled with blue liquid wiht a feather floating in it (easy science experiments)

48. Clean up an oil spill

Before conducting this experiment, teach your students about engineers who solve environmental problems like oil spills. Then, have your students use provided materials to clean the oil spill from their oceans.

Learn more: Oil Spill

Sixth grade student holding model lungs and diaphragm made from a plastic bottle, duct tape, and balloons

49. Construct a pair of model lungs

Kids get a better understanding of the respiratory system when they build model lungs using a plastic water bottle and some balloons. You can modify the experiment to demonstrate the effects of smoking too.

Learn more: Lung Science Experiment

Child pouring vinegar over a large rock in a bowl

50. Experiment with limestone rocks

Kids  love to collect rocks, and there are plenty of easy science experiments you can do with them. In this one, pour vinegar over a rock to see if it bubbles. If it does, you’ve found limestone!

Learn more: Limestone Experiments

Plastic bottle converted to a homemade rain gauge

51. Turn a bottle into a rain gauge

All you need is a plastic bottle, a ruler, and a permanent marker to make your own rain gauge. Monitor your measurements and see how they stack up against meteorology reports in your area.

Learn more: How To Make a Rain Gauge

Pile of different colored towels pushed together to create folds like mountains (easy science experiments)

52. Build up towel mountains

This clever demonstration helps kids understand how some landforms are created. Use layers of towels to represent rock layers and boxes for continents. Then pu-u-u-sh and see what happens!

Learn more: Towel Mountains

Layers of differently colored playdough with straw holes punched throughout all the layers

53. Take a play dough core sample

Learn about the layers of the earth by building them out of play dough, then take a core sample with a straw. ( Love Play-Doh? Get more learning ideas here. )

Learn more: Play Dough Core Sampling

Science student poking holes in the bottom of a paper cup in the shape of a constellation

54. Project the stars on your ceiling

Use the video lesson in the link below to learn why stars are only visible at night. Then create a DIY star projector to explore the concept hands-on.

Learn more: DIY Star Projector

Glass jar of water with shaving cream floating on top, with blue food coloring dripping through, next to a can of shaving cream (easy science experiments)

55. Make it rain

Use shaving cream and food coloring to simulate clouds and rain. This is an easy science experiment little ones will beg to do over and over.

Learn more: Shaving Cream Rain

56. Blow up your fingerprint

This is such a cool (and easy!) way to look at fingerprint patterns. Inflate a balloon a bit, use some ink to put a fingerprint on it, then blow it up big to see your fingerprint in detail.

Edible DNA model made with Twizzlers, gumdrops, and toothpicks

57. Snack on a DNA model

Twizzlers, gumdrops, and a few toothpicks are all you need to make this super-fun (and yummy!) DNA model.

Learn more: Edible DNA Model

58. Dissect a flower

Take a nature walk and find a flower or two. Then bring them home and take them apart to discover all the different parts of flowers.

DIY smartphone amplifier made from paper cups

59. Craft smartphone speakers

No Bluetooth speaker? No problem! Put together your own from paper cups and toilet paper tubes.

Learn more: Smartphone Speakers

Car made from cardboard with bottlecap wheels and powered by a blue balloon (easy science experiments)

60. Race a balloon-powered car

Kids will be amazed when they learn they can put together this awesome racer using cardboard and bottle-cap wheels. The balloon-powered “engine” is so much fun too.

Learn more: Balloon-Powered Car

Miniature Ferris Wheel built out of colorful wood craft sticks

61. Build a Ferris wheel

You’ve probably ridden on a Ferris wheel, but can you build one? Stock up on wood craft sticks and find out! Play around with different designs to see which one works best.

Learn more: Craft Stick Ferris Wheel

62. Design a phone stand

There are lots of ways to craft a DIY phone stand, which makes this a perfect creative-thinking STEM challenge.

63. Conduct an egg drop

Put all their engineering skills to the test with an egg drop! Challenge kids to build a container from stuff they find around the house that will protect an egg from a long fall (this is especially fun to do from upper-story windows).

Learn more: Egg Drop Challenge Ideas

Student building a roller coaster of drinking straws for a ping pong ball (Fourth Grade Science)

64. Engineer a drinking-straw roller coaster

STEM challenges are always a hit with kids. We love this one, which only requires basic supplies like drinking straws.

Learn more: Straw Roller Coaster

65. Build a solar oven

Explore the power of the sun when you build your own solar ovens and use them to cook some yummy treats. This experiment takes a little more time and effort, but the results are always impressive. The link below has complete instructions.

Learn more: Solar Oven (Guide + Printable Reflection Sheet)

Mini Da Vinci bridge made of pencils and rubber bands

66. Build a Da Vinci bridge

There are plenty of bridge-building experiments out there, but this one is unique. It’s inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s 500-year-old self-supporting wooden bridge. Learn how to build it at the link, and expand your learning by exploring more about Da Vinci himself.

Learn more: Da Vinci Bridge

67. Step through an index card

This is one easy science experiment that never fails to astonish. With carefully placed scissor cuts on an index card, you can make a loop large enough to fit a (small) human body through! Kids will be wowed as they learn about surface area.

Student standing on top of a structure built from cardboard sheets and paper cups

68. Stand on a pile of paper cups

Combine physics and engineering and challenge kids to create a paper cup structure that can support their weight. This is a cool project for aspiring architects.

Learn more: Paper Cup Stack

Child standing on a stepladder dropping a toy attached to a paper parachute (easy science experiments)

69. Test out parachutes

Gather a variety of materials (try tissues, handkerchiefs, plastic bags, etc.) and see which ones make the best parachutes. You can also find out how they’re affected by windy days or find out which ones work in the rain.

Learn more: How To Make a Parachute

Students balancing a textbook on top of a pyramid of rolled up newspaper

70. Recycle newspapers into an engineering challenge

It’s amazing how a stack of newspapers can spark such creative engineering. Challenge kids to build a tower, support a book, or even build a chair using only newspaper and tape!

Learn more: Newspaper STEM Challenge

Plastic cup with rubber bands stretched across the opening

71. Use rubber bands to sound out acoustics

Explore the ways that sound waves are affected by what’s around them using a simple rubber-band “guitar.” (Kids absolutely love playing with these!)

Learn more: Sound Experiment

Science student pouring water over a cupcake wrapper propped on wood craft sticks (easy science experiments)

72. Assemble a better umbrella

Challenge students to engineer the best possible umbrella from various household supplies. Encourage them to plan, draw blueprints, and test their creations using the scientific method.

Learn more: Umbrella STEM Challenge

73. Grow rock candy

Turn science into a sweet treat by making rock candy. Dissolve sugar in hot water to create a solution, then let it cool as crystals slowly form on a stick or string. The best part is that the kids get to eat their experiment when it’s done!

74. Create a rain cloud in a jar

Bring weather science indoors with this fun hands-on project. Use shaving cream to mimic clouds and add drops of food coloring to simulate rain. It’s a great way to explore the water cycle without even having to step outside!

75. Brighten up with rainbow celery

Make your science lesson more vibrant with a splash of color. Drop celery stalks into glasses of water with food dye, and watch as the beautiful colors travel up through the stems.

76. Safely view a solar eclipse

Teach your students about the solar eclipse, and help them safely view this exciting event with just a few simple materials.

Learn more: Solar Eclipse Viewer (Guide + Printable Reflection Sheet)

Get your free printable science experiment recording sheet!

Just fill out the form on this page to get instant access to your free printable experiment recording sheet.

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Science doesn't have to be complicated! Try these easy science experiments using items you already have around the house or classroom.

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20 Amazingly Simple Science Experiments Using Household Items in 2023

Science experiments you can do at home! Keep the kids involved with learning at home with these easy DIY science experiments for kids. Here are some really cool experiments to do at home with household items!

Simple science experiments for kids

Science Projects For Kids At Home

The kids have been stuck at home for awhile now and they are getting bored!

What’s worse, its been like 115 degrees every day this summer here in Arizona. So playing outside isn’t really an option. Instead, we are stuck with finding cool things to do inside the home, with the stuff we already have.

These really simple science experiments for kids are a great way to get your kids engaged and off their tablets. And even better, they all use simple items you probably already own.

Cool Science Experiments with Household Items

The best thing about all these experiments for kids is that you can do them all with items right in your pantry, or cleaning cabinet.

Shaving cream, baking soda, vinegar… you’d be very surprised what these basic household items can do with just a little imagination.

Simple Science Experiments For Kids

If you’re bored in the house and you’re in the house bored… try one of these really cool science projects for kids at home.

These great resources can also help you come up with some ideas for your kids!

  • Awesome Science Experiments for Kids: 100+ Fun STEM / STEAM Projects and Why They Work
  • Smithsonian 10-Minute Science Experiments: 50+ quick, easy and awesome projects for kids
  • Learn & Climb Kids Science Kit – Over 60 Experiments, Fun with Science!

1 – Make Magnetic Slime

You know your kids have slime materials at home! Follow this easy tutorial to make slime that sticks to magnets. Your kids will be amazed!

Curtesy of See Mama Go

How to make magnetic slime, science experiments for at home

2 – Homemade Volcano

Kids love things that make messes and a homemade volcano is a classic. This easy to follow tutorial uses play-doh, baking soda, and vinegar.

Curtesy of Happy Brown House

Homemade volcano DIY

3 – Oil and Water Lava Lamps

It’s a simple example of oil and water to make this really cool science experiment with items from your house.

Curtesy of Fun Learning For Kids

lava lamp science experiment

4 – Making Rain Science Experiment

Grab some shaving cream and food coloring and teach your kids how rain and clouds are made.

Curtesy of Mrs Jones Creation Station

rain cloud science experiment

5 – Grow a Rainbow Experiment

Watch a rainbow grow right before your very eyes. Or use any colors you want with this simple experiment that only requires water, paper towels, and markers.

Curtesy of The Best Ideas For Kids

Grow a Rainbow experiment

6 – Bouncy Egg Experiment

Even I thought this science experiment was cool! A dissolving shell and a bouncy egg? How does that work!

Curtesy of Mom Brite

bouncy egg experiment

7 – DIY Unpoppable Bubbles

Bubbles are always a favorite of little kids. But what if they could make some bubbles that don’t pop?

Curtesy of Learning Resources

unpoppable bubble

8 – Baking Soda Rocket

Did you you can make rockets with everyday household items? Your kids will think you are the coolest mom in the world when you show them this experiment.

Curtesy of Science-Sparks

baking soda rocket

9 – Pencil in Water Bag

My daughter actually learned this experiment in school and came home and showed it to me. It was so amazing to her, she loved shocking others with this cool experiment.

Curtesy of Hello, Wonderful

Pencil water bag experiment

10 – Balloon Air Pressure Experiment

You’ll want to supervise this experiment since it involves fire but your kids will light up when they do it (haha… pun intended).

Curtesy of Darcy and Brian

experiments with household objects

11 – Dancing Raisins

Finally a really cool science experiment you can do at home AND you can eat! Little kids will love making and eating this project.

Curtesy of One Little Project

dancing raisins experiment

12 – Crushing Cans Science Experiment

Kids love things that smash and crash. Take some old cans from the recycling bin and give them a fun science experiment that crushes some cans.

Curtesy of Frugal Fun 4 Boys

Crushing cans science experiment

13 – Exploding Sandwich Bag Science Experiment

Kids will love this science experiment that uses a chemical reaction to explode!

Exploding Sandwich Bag Science Experiment

14 – Snowstorm in a Jar Winter Science Experiment

Get ready for the holiday season with this cool science experiment where you make snow in a jar.

Snowstorm in a Jar Winter Science Experiment

15 – Magic Pepper and Soap Science Experiment

This paper and soap experiment is fun for kids because they get to use their own fingers to make it work.

Magic-Pepper-and-Soap-Science-Experiment

16 – Making Butter Science Experiment

Science you can eat! Use this creative experiment to learn something new and have a tase treat when you are done.

Curtesy of StemSational

how butter is made

17 – Rising Water Science Experiment

With just a few items and a few steps, you can demonstrate to your kids how to rise the water inside the cup or jar without ever touching it.

Rising water candle experiment

18 – Arctic Animals Science Experiment

My daughter loves showing off this science experiment when people come over. She thinks sh’e being tricky, but it’s a great way to learn about animal blubber.

Curtesy of Forgetful Momma

arctic animal science experiements you can do at home

19 – Tornado in a Bottle

A fun way to learn about weather is with this DIY tornado in a bottle science experiment.

Curtesy of Gift of Curiosity

Tornado in a jar

20 – DIY Thermometer for Kids

This is a great way to get kids involved in the weather and to get them outside and active.

Curtesy of Lemon Lime Adventures

DIY Thermometer for Kids

Simple Science Experiments You Can Do At Home

Whether you are trying to teach school online or your kids are just home and bored during summer vacation, all of these DIY science experiments will keep them entertained and engaged!

You Might Also Be Interested In:

  • Middle School Science Fair Project Idea
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20 Amazingly Simple Science Experiments for kids you can do at home

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50 Amazingly Simple Science Experiments for Kids at Home

Science Kindergartners Preschoolers Experiment Resources 32 Comments

Kids love experimenting , and these 50 simple science experiments for kids at home from Brigitte are perfect for all ages! Plus, you probably already have the basic supplies at home.

My daughters and I have had a lot of fun doing science experiments. Each year when we create our spring and summer list , we make sure to include “science days” which are days filled with science experiments.

Sometimes our science experiments don’t work according to plan, but I have been told that all scientists have failures with experiments from time to time.

It’s okay if they aren’t all successes.

Get the FREE Science Experiments Download

50 Simple Science Experiments with Supplies You Already Have

Try these 50 simple science experiments for kids that use supplies you already have at home!

I love these 50 simple science experiments for you to try with your little scientists. They all use basic household supplies that you probably already have at home!

Most of these are experiments my daughters and I have done together. I hope you enjoy them as much as we have!

Get little ones involved with these easy toddler-friendly science experiment ideas!

Sink or Float Simple Science Experiment for Kids to try at home, fine 50 easy science experiments for kids!

Simple Science Experiments with Water

Not only can water  be a blast to play in, but water plus a few basic supplies equals a lot of science fun!

  • Make an orange sink and float with an orange buoyancy experiment from Playdough to Plato.
  • Compare the amount of salt in different types of water with this salty egg experiment  as seen on Uplifting Mayhem.
  • Do a little more sinking or floating with a fun sink or float experiment  even toddlers can do from Hands On As We Grow.
  • Use the free printable to record what sinks or floats in an outdoor experiment from Buggy and Buddy.
  • Create some beautiful pieces of paper with this rainbow paper experiment from Science Kiddo.
  • Talk about solutions as you try the “what dissolves in water” experiment  as seen on Hands On As We Grow.
  • Learn about water absorption with this simple experiment from Little Bins for Little Hands.
  • Mix some fun colors with this oil and water experiment  from Fun Learning for Kids.
  • Make your own lava lamp , just like on  Hands On As We Grow.
  • Can you keep all the water in the bag? Try it with a  leak-proof bag experiment  as seen on Hands On As We Grow.
  • Learn about surface tension with this  magic finger pepper experiment  found on Hands On As We Grow.
  • Make your own  water cycle in a bottle  as seen on A Dab of Glue Will Do.

Colored Baking Soda & Vinegar Simple Science Experiment for Kids to try at home, fine 50 easy science experiments for kids!

Simple Science Experiments with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Baking soda + vinegar = a great chemical reaction! This fizzy reaction can fuel a variety of simple science experiments at home.

First of all, we have tested and found out the absolute best combination of baking soda and vinegar to get the best reaction possible. It makes a difference if you add vinegar to baking soda or vice versa! And how much you use!

  • Inflate a balloon without blowing into it with a baking soda and vinegar balloon experiment  as seen on Little Bins for Little Hands.
  • Practice colors as you do a baking soda and vinegar with color experiment as seen on Hands On As We Grow.
  • Have fun outside with an outdoor volcano eruption  as seen on Preschool Inspirations.
  • Have more volcano fun by making apple volcanoes as seen on The Resourceful Mama.
  • Learn about acids and bases and the chemical reaction that occurs when you make apple seeds dance with a   jumping apple seeds experiment  as seen on JDaniel4s Mom.
  • Watch some rice dance with a   dancing rice experiment as seen on Green Kid Crafts.
  • Continue your dance party by making raisins dance with a dancing raisin experiment  as seen on 123 Homeschool 4 Me. What other items can you get to dance?
  • Learn more about acids and bases by dissolving a sea shell as seen on Teach Beside Me.
  • Make an egg shell disappear with this disappearing egg activity  as seen on Premeditated Leftovers.
  • See how far you can launch a soda bottle with this baking soda powered boat as seen on Science Sparks.
  • Make your own rocks (or eggs) with this fizzy treasure rocks experiment as seen on Living Life and Learning.
  • Have some fun this summer with this frozen vinegar experiment as seen on Inspiration Laboratories.

Plant Themed Simple Science Experiments

Enjoy learning about seeds, plant parts, and how plants grow with these simple science experiments.

  • Learn about how plants soak up water through their stems with a flower experiment for kids  from Growing A Jeweled Rose.
  • Watch seeds sprout as you grow seeds in a jar  as seen on Teaching Mama.
  • Learn about the parts of the seed with a seed coat experiment as seen on Gift of Curiosity.
  • Build a house out of sponges and then watch it sprout with this sprout house as seen on The Stem Laboratory.
  • Learn what liquids allow seeds to grow the best with this seed experiment  as seen on Gift of Curiosity.
  • Explore how plants grow towards the light with this shoe-box maze experiment from Plants for Kids.

Try these 50 simple science experiments for kids that use supplies you already have at home!

Animal Themed Simple Science Experiments

Learning about animals can be even more fun with some simple hands-on simple science experiments.

  • Find out more about giraffes and create some giraffe spots  as seen on Preschool Powol Packets.
  • Learn about how animals in the Arctic keep warm by making an arctic glove  as seen on Steve Spangler Science.
  • Discover how penguins stay dry with a penguin feather experiment as seen on Raising Little Superheroes.
  • Learn about different bird beaks with a bird beak experiment as seen on Blessed Beyond a Doubt.
  • Explore how fish (and hermit crabs) breathe with this gill experiment  as seen on Preschool Powol Packets.
  • Learn about sharks with a   shark buoyancy experiment as seen on Little Bins for Little Hands.

Color Changing Milk Simple Science Experiment for Kids to try at home, fine 50 easy science experiments for kids!

Even More Simple Science Experiment for Kids at Home!

If you are still looking for more science fun, you may enjoy the following simple science experiments.

  • Find out how sugary drinks hurt teeth with an  eggs-periment  as seen on Feels Like Home Blog.
  • Discover geodes (the state rock of Iowa) with this eggshell geode crystal experiment  as seen on Upstart Mag.
  • Learn about air pressure with an egg and bottle experiment  as seen on Science Sparks.
  • Find out what causes an apple to brown with this apple science experiment  as seen on Teach Beside Me.
  • Make an  edible bubble apple with an experiment as seen on Preschool Powol Packet.
  • Learn more about surface tension with a penny and water experiment  as seen on Artful Parent.
  • Mix colors like magic with this color changing milk experiment  from Hands On As We Grow.
  • Blow up a balloon with this soda and balloon experiment from Learn Play Imagine.
  • Practice letters by making beautiful crystal letters as seen on Books and Giggles.
  • Make your own indoor hovercraft  as seen on Living Life and Learning.
  • Learn about colors with this beautiful butterfly chromatography craft  as seen on Buggy and Buddy.
  • Make soap souffle  as seen on Steve Spangler Science.
  • After talking about liquids and solids (and finding them in your own home), create oobleck  as seen on Babble Dabble Do. Is it a liquid, or is it a solid?
  • Learn about frost by making some indoor frost as seen on Little Bin for Little Hands.
  • Make your own homemade butter in a jar as seen on Happy Hooligans.

What scientific experiment will you try first?

Try these 50 simple science experiments for kids that use supplies you already have at home!

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About Brigitte Brulz

Brigitte Brulz is a homeschooling mom of two daughters, wife of her high school sweetheart, and author of Jobs of a Preschooler and Pickles, Pickles, I Like Pickles. She offers free coloring pages and activity ideas on her website at BrigitteBrulz.com .

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Reader Interactions

32 comments.

sssFaceBook says

November 28, 2024 at 8:48 pm

I love how accessible these experiments are! It’s so refreshing to see creative science projects that use everyday materials. Can’t wait to try out the baking soda volcano with my kids this weekend! Thanks for sharing these simple yet fun ideas!

y2matewebsite says

October 2, 2024 at 2:39 am

I love this list of experiments! It’s amazing how many fun and educational activities we can do with everyday supplies. Can’t wait to try the vinegar and baking soda volcano with my kids this weekend! Thank you for sharing!

college brawl says

March 13, 2024 at 1:05 am

Wow, these experiments look like so much fun! I can’t wait to try them out with my kids. We’re always looking for new and creative ways to learn about science at home, and these experiments look like they’ll be perfect for us. Thanks for sharing! 😊

threadsBay says

August 31, 2023 at 3:13 am

I love science experiments! This one is really simple and easy to do.

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experiments with household objects

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101 cheap budget science experiments for kids

by Katrina | Nov 28, 2024 | Blogging , Science | 0 comments

Experiments are what makes learning in science fun! But if you have a strict budget or don’t have the resources, it becomes hard to include experiments regularly in your lessons. So I’ve put together 101 cheap budget science experiments for kids! These cheap science experiments utilise common household items, inexpensive basic lab materials, or items you can get at the dollar store.  These experiments are so much fun to do at home with your kids on rainy days, or to use in a science lab on a low budget.

So sit back and relax while I give you 101 budget science experiments you can do with inexpensive materials.

 101 cheap budget science experiments for kids

101 budget science experiments for kids

101 Easy science experiments on a budget

Chemistry experiments.

Check out these cool science experiments for kids of all ages! Younger children will love the wow factor of these while elementary students can start to explore the reasons behind each chemical reaction. 

  • Baking Soda and Vinegar Volcano   – Classic chemical reaction with baking soda, vinegar, and food coloring. You could do this in a plastic bottle.
  • Homemade Slime   – Use glue, baking soda, and contact lens solution and mix together.
  • Lemon Volcano   – Add baking soda to a halved lemon and watch the fizz.
  • Magic Milk Experiment   – Add drops of food coloring to milk on a plate. Dip a cotton bud in some washing detergent and touch the surface of the milk to watch it swirl!
  • Color-Changing Cabbage   – Test pH by adding vinegar or baking soda to red cabbage water.
  • Invisible Ink   – Write with lemon juice, then use a heat source like a blow dryer to reveal. 
  • Balloon Inflation   – Create carbon dioxide by combining baking soda and vinegar in a bottle with a balloon over the top.
  • Homemade Bath Bombs   – Combine baking soda, citric acid, and essential oils. Compress into balls. 
  • Exploding Sandwich Bags   – Use vinegar and baking soda in sealed bags.
  • Rock Candy Crystals   – Dissolve sugar in hot water to make a saturated solution and let it crystallize on a stick.
  • Erupting Soap Foam   – Microwave a bar of Ivory soap and watch it puff up.
  • Density Column   – Layer different liquids (e.g., honey, oil, water) to explore density.
  • Rainbow Skittles Experiment   – Arrange Skittles in water and watch colors dissolve.
  • Salt and Ice Experiment   – Put salt water with varying amounts of salt in an ice tray and freeze. Take out and observe how salt affects ice melting. 
  • Baking Soda Rockets   – Use baking soda, vinegar, and a plastic film canister.
  • Floating Egg   – Test density with a salted water solution vs normal water with an egg.
  • Lava Lamp   – Mix water, oil, and add an Alka-Seltzer tablet.
  • Making Butter   – Shake heavy cream in a jar until butter forms.
  • Burning steel wool  – Use a long match or a power pack to light the steel wool and watch the metal burn!
  • Chemical Reactions in a Bag   – Mix vinegar, baking soda, and observe gas formation.

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Physics experiments.

Have fun with these physics experiments using everyday household items! 

  • Balloon-Powered Car   – Make a car powered by a balloon. This can be done even using recycling materials like plastic bottles, bottle caps for wheels, skewers, balloon etc. 
  • CD Hovercraft   – Create a mini-hovercraft using a CD, bottle cap, and balloon.
  • Spinning Penny in a Balloon   – Show centripetal force by spinning a penny inside a balloon.
  • DIY Periscope   – Use mirrors and cardboard to make a periscope.
  • Static Electricity with Balloons   – Rub a balloon on hair and observe static effects.
  • Floating Paperclip   – Test surface tension with a paperclip on water.
  • Paper Airplane Physics   – Test different airplane designs for flight distance.
  • Gravity Drop Test   – Drop items of different masses to observe gravity.
  • Marble Roller Coaster   – Use foam pipe insulation to build a track for marbles.
  • Inclined Plane Experiment   – Test friction by rolling items down ramps with different surfaces.
  • Magic Spinning Top   – Make a top with a pencil and cardboard circle to explore spin.
  • Water Displacement   – Measure how much water objects displace in a bowl.
  • Straw Rockets   – Launch small rockets by blowing through a straw.
  • Pendulum Swing   – Observe pendulum motion with different weights.
  • Paper Towel Chromatography   – Separate ink colors with a strip of paper towel.
  • Density Ball Drop   – Drop balls of different materials to see density effects.
  • Bottle Flip Science   – Test water bottle flipping and the effect of water level.
  • Water Pressure Straw Fountain   – Make a fountain by blowing through a straw underwater.
  • Siphon Experiment   – Use two containers and a straw to demonstrate water flow.
  • Egg Drop Challenge   – Protect an egg with various materials to prevent breaking

 101 cheap budget science experiments for kids  

experiments with household objects

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Cheap biology science experiments

So many of these are a great way to explore kitchen science. 

  • Regrowing Vegetables   – Regrow veggies like green onions in water.
  • Seed Germination   – Observe sprouting seeds in a clear plastic bag.
  • Apple Browning   – Test how lemon juice slows apple oxidation.
  • Osmosis in Potatoes   – Soak potato slices in salt and fresh water.
  • Yeast and Sugar Balloons   – Inflate a balloon using yeast, sugar, and water.
  • Coloring Flowers   – Place white flowers in colored water and observe.
  • Leaf Rubbing   – Create impressions of leaf veins with crayons and paper.
  • Fingerprint Analysis   – Use a pencil and tape to lift fingerprints.
  • Bread Mold Experiment   – Observe mold growth on different types of bread.
  • Homemade Fossils   – Press objects into salt dough and let it dry.
  • Plant Growth in Light vs. Dark   – Compare plant growth in different light conditions.
  • Dissecting a Flower   – Explore flower parts by gently pulling them apart.
  • DIY Bird Feeder   – Attract birds with a homemade feeder.
  • Build a Biome in a Jar   – Create a mini ecosystem with soil, water, and plants.
  • Banana Ripening   – Test how different storage conditions affect ripening.
  • Making Yogurt   – Turn milk into yogurt by adding starter cultures.
  • Observing Cell Walls   – Look at onion cells under a microscope or magnifying glass.
  • Sun Prints with Leaves   – Use construction paper and sunlight to make leaf prints.
  • Ant Observation   – Set up a sugar trail to observe ant behavior.
  • Potato Battery   – Create a simple battery with a potato and pennies.

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Cheap earth science experiments.

  • Water Filtration   – Build a filter with sand, gravel, and charcoal.
  • Mini Compost Bin   – Make a small compost with organic scraps in a jar.
  • Homemade Solar Oven   – Use a box and foil to create a solar oven.
  • Rain Gauge   – Measure rainfall using a clear container.
  • Wind Speed Measurement   – Make an anemometer with paper cups.
  • Erosion Experiment   – Observe how water affects sand and soil on slopes.
  • Acid Rain Simulation   – Add vinegar to water and observe its effect on plants.
  • Oil Spill Cleanup   – Simulate an oil spill in water and test cleanup methods.
  • Thermal Insulator Test   – Wrap ice cubes in different materials to see which keeps them cold longest.
  • Evaporation Experiment   – Measure water levels in a dish over time.
  • Water Cycle in a Bag   – Create condensation and precipitation in a sealed bag.
  • DIY Barometer   – Use a balloon and jar to make a simple barometer.
  • Floating Garden   – Grow small plants on a sponge to mimic a hydroponic system.
  • Acid-Base Indicators   – Use cabbage juice to test rainwater pH.
  • Soil Testing   – Compare water absorption and plant growth in different soil types.
  • Build a Mini Greenhouse   – Use a plastic bag to create a greenhouse for plants.
  • Observing Decomposition   – Track how different materials decompose in soil.
  • Temperature and Plant Growth   – Test how plants grow in various temperatures.
  • DIY Thermometer   – Make a thermometer with water, alcohol, and food coloring.
  • Rainwater Collection   – Set up a collection system and measure rain volume.

 STEM Experiments

  • Marble Maze   – Design a maze for marbles with cardboard.
  • Tower Challenge   – Build the tallest tower with marshmallows and spaghetti.
  • Bridge Building   – Create bridges with popsicle sticks or straws and test strength.
  • Parachute Challenge   – Design a parachute to carry a small object.
  • Paper Cup Phone   – Build a “phone” with string and cups to explore sound.
  • Water Wheel   – Create a simple water wheel with plastic cups and observe its rotation.
  • Wind Turbine Model   – Design a model turbine that spins in the wind.
  • Paper Structure Test   – Test the strength of different paper shapes.
  • Balloon Helicopter   – Use balloons and straws to create a spinning “helicopter.”
  • Egg Parachute   – Build a parachute to protect an egg from breaking.

Simple Science Explorations

  • Leaf Colors in Fall   – Collect leaves and observe color changes.
  • Weathering Rocks   – Place rocks in water, vinegar, etc., to observe effects.
  • Sound Waves with Rubber Band Guitar   – Stretch rubber bands over a box to make sounds.
  • Homemade Compass   – Float a magnetized needle on water to create a compass.
  • Testing Magnet Strength   – Use various magnets to lift different weights.
  • Bubble Blowing with Different Liquids   – Test bubble solutions using soap and water.
  • Exploring Shadows   – Observe how shadows change during the day.
  • Hot vs. Cold Water Density   – Add food coloring to cold and warm water to observe density differences.
  • Sink or Float   – Test the buoyancy of different objects.
  • Mirror Reflections   – Experiment with mirrors to explore reflections.
  • Growing Crystals – grow crystals using saturated copper sulfate solution or alternatively a saturated salt water solution and string. Soak the string in the solution and leave it to dry and crystalise!

Never underestimate the power of an easy experiment. Engage students with these 101 budget science experiments using household ingredients and common household materials.

Note: Always consult your school’s specific experiment and risk assessment guidelines and policies, and seek guidance from experienced colleagues or administrators when in doubt about safety protocols.

About the Author

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Katrina Harte is a multi-award winning educator from Sydney, Australia who specialises in creating resources that support teachers and engage students.

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100+ Easy Science Experiments for Kids To Do at Home (Using Materials You Already Have!)

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Easy Science Experiments for Kids | Use household materials and ingredients for these fun science projects that cover experiments with chemistry, candy, water, weather, life science, physics and states of matter. The best list!

Looking for fun science experiments to do at home with your kids? We’ve compiled the ultimate list of cool science experiments for kids – most of which can be done with materials you already have on hand!

Children are naturally curious about the world around them, but explaining scientific concepts without a physical demonstration can be confusing, and well, just not fun! We’ve found the best way to teach science is with simple science experiments that provide hands-on learning opportunities – making concepts more accessible, and most importantly, extremely fun and memorable for kids.

We’ve scoured the web to pull together an epic list of the best easy science experiments you can do at home with your kids. Whether you have preschoolers starting at square one, or tweens or teens looking for the ultimate Science Fair project idea, this list has it all – ranging from weather, water and physics experiments, to chemical reactions and explosions (always a kid favorite!).

And you won’t have to make a special trip to the craft or hardware store – almost all of these fun science experiments use common household ingredients that you probably already have at home. Score!

So what are you waiting for – dive right in and have some science fun!

PIN for when you’re ready to perform a fun science experiment:

experiments with household objects

Science Experiments using Chemistry (Hello, Explosions!)

Your kids will have a blast watching how different materials react and change with these simple chemistry experiments – there’s tons of bubbly explosions, fizzy reactions and rainbow creations to choose from!

experiments with household objects

(1) These Oozing Pumpkins are sure to bring lots of laughs from your young scientists as you create overflowing reactions from baking soda and white vinegar. (via Little Bins for Little Hands)

(2) Or swap the pumpkin for a lemon to create a miniature volcano right in your kitchen with this Lemon Volcano . (via The Best Ideas for Kids)

(3) Go big or go home with this incredible Watermelon Volcano experiment where you just need a few simple materials including baking soda, dish soap, vinegar and a little bit of food coloring. (via Preschool Play & Learn)

(4) We love this colorful twist on the classic Baking Soda and Vinegar Reaction . It just never gets old! (via Crafts by Amanda)

(5) Grab a baking sheet and try this Fizzing Colors activity to make a bubbly piece of art! (via Mom Wife Busy Life)

(6) A fun Rainbow variation on the classic Baking Soda and Vinegar experiment that is sure to make kids smile. (via The Best Ideas for Kids)

(7) Make these amazing Magical Color Changing Unicorn Noodles with cabbage and then squeeze on some lemon to watch the noodles change color! (via Left Brain Craft Brain)

(8) Learn about reactions on a large scale and turn milk into a work of art with this interactive Giant Magic Milk experiment . (via Hello Wonderful)

experiments with household objects

(9) Up the ante and make this Vinegar & Baking Soda Rocket – the chemical reaction can make it fly 30-50 feet into the air! (via 123 Homeschool for 4)

(10) Or try this super cool Chemical Reaction Car – it gets a boost from a fizzy reaction from a base (sodium bicarbonate, aka baking soda) and an acid (vinegar) which mix together and release carbon dioxide. (via Left Brain Craft Brain)

(11) Kids love this simple experiment about Apple Oxidation where they can predict which liquid will keep the apple slices from browning, then test their hypothesis. (via Jennifer Findley)

(12) Ever wonder why the Statue of Liberty is green? Get the answer to that question and learn a little bit about a famous US landmark with this cool Penny Science Experiment . (via The Keele Deal)

(13) Wow your kids by making raisins dance! This Dancing Raisins chemical experiment requires minimal ingredients (water + baking soda) but gets maximum results. (via 123 Homeschool 4 ME)

(14) What happens if you drop an egg? It cracks, right? But what if you drop a bouncy egg?!  Learn how to make Bouncing Eggs with this fun kitchen experiment. (via 123 Homeschool 4 ME)

(15) It’s an old classic, but it’s still fun to do – try to fit a hardboiled egg into a glass jar with this Egg in a Bottle experiment. (via Left Brain Craft Brain)

(16) Practice fire safety while learning about the relationship between oxygen and fire with this incredibly simple Fire Safety Experiment . (via Mama Smiles)

(17) Impress your kids with this cool Smoking Fingers Trick that makes it look like your fingers are on fire as smoke rises from them! And yes, it’s best to leave this one to the grown-ups for demonstration. (via Left Brain Craft Brain)

(18) Kids will enjoy watching these balloons inflate “on their own” in this fun Balloon experiment . (via All for the Boys)

experiments with household objects

(19) With a few ingredients from your pantry, you can head outside and try this Exploding Sidewalk Chalk , because who doesn’t love messy explosions?! (via Hess Un-Academy)

(20) How do elephants keep their teeth clean? With Elephant Toothpaste of course! This is one of the best science experiments for kids of all ages – from preschoolers to teens. All it takes is hydrogen peroxide, dry yeast, dish soap and food coloring to make this super cool foamy reaction. (via Teach Beside Me)

(21) Kids (and parents) will enjoy seeing the “lava” flowing in this fun experiment where you can Take a Look Inside of a Volcano ! (via 123 Homeschool 4 Me)

(22) How pretty are these Crystal Flowers ? They’re a craft and science experiment all in one! (via Preschool Play & Learn)

(23) Make your own sweet treat, with this Fizzy Sherbet and learn the science behind why it tickles your tongue. (via Go Science Kids)

(24) Grab all your dull pennies and task your little scientists to try different solutions to determine How to Clean Pennies , then learn why some solutions work better than others. (via Gally Kids)

Weather Science Experiments for Kids

Why is it rainy one day and sunny the next? What causes thunder and lightning? How do clouds form? 

The weather is always changing and easily observable by kids. That makes weather experiments not only super fun, but incredibly relevant for children of all ages. Explore weather-related science with these easy experiments:

experiments with household objects

(1) Have fun creating your very own rain clouds using shaving cream and food coloring with this Rain Cloud in a Jar activity. (via The Best Ideas for Kids)

(2) If you’ve got a marker and a plastic zipper bag, your kids will love getting to watch the water cycle in action by creating their very own Water Cycle in a Bag . (via Playdough to Plato)

(3) Or simply use a glass bowl and some ice cubes for a Water Cycle Experiment on the kitchen counter! (via Taming Little Monsters)

(4) Alternatively, reuse plastic bottles for a hands-on Water Cycle Experiment . (via 123 Homeschool 4 ME)

(5) Now that you know all about the water cycle, why not Build Your Own Rain Gauge ? (via Nurture Store)

(6) Learn what happens when warm air rises and cool air sinks with this colorful simple experiment. (via Mom Brite)

(7) Kids will love watching a cloud form and escape when you Create a Cloud in a Water Bottle . (via Playing with Rain)

(8) If you don’t have an empty water bottle lying around, you can check out this post to create another billowing cloud using a mason jar . It is so exciting to watch the clouds roll out of the jars! (via Little Bins for Little Hands)

experiments with household objects

(9) This Tornado in a Jar is one of the most classic science experiments and is always a hit with kids. (via Natural Beach Living)

(10) Light a fire and learn about how heat moves from the Earth in this Observing Conduction experiment. (via Learn, Play, Imagine)

(11) If it’s too cold to go out and play, make the most of your time inside with this Snowstorm in a Jar . (via Taming Little Monsters)

(12) You can create your own lightning spark at home with static electricity by using just a balloon and a metal spoon! (via Learn, Play, Imagine)

(13) Have you ever wondered how hail forms? Well, you’re in luck! Grab your hair dryer for this Understanding Hail activity . (via Playing with Rain)

(14) Watch wind create energy by Making a Pinwheel.  (via Science Sparks)

(15) Your kids will love learning about ice caps and polar regions with this fun sensory Melting Polar Ice Caps science activity. (via Science Sparks)

(16) And if that’s not enough snow, you can kick it up a notch with this Avalanche Experiment . (via A Dab of Glue Will Do)

(17) Grab some sidewalk chalk on a sunny day for a Human Sundial Experiment . (via Rhythms of Play)

(18) Make your own Rainbow and learn about refraction and dispersion of light. (via Rookie Parenting)

Easy Science Experiments with Candy

Adding candy makes anything more exciting for kids (or at least more sweet!), and these cool candy science experiments are no exception.

These experiments are easy, fun, and a great way to use up any extra candy that might be hanging around after the holidays! 

experiments with household objects

(1) Create a rainbow on your plate with this stunning Easy Skittles Experiment . (via The Best Ideas for Kids)

(2) Now this is an experiment that kids will get excited about! Make your own Homemade Rock Candy while learning about the crystallization process. (via Better Life Blog)

(3) Explore chromatography, a technique for separating difference substances (in this case, candy and dye), with this cool Candy Chromatography kid-friendly experiment. (via Mama Miss)

(4) Learn about osmosis and watch gummy candy magically grow with this simple Gummy Bear Science Experiment . (via Playdough to Plato)

(5) Does your child like to collect rocks? Why not let them dig deeper by making these Edible Sedimentary Rocks . (via Rainy Day Mum)

(6) Watch your kids get excited as you make Pop Rocks blow up a balloon in this epic Pop Rock Science Experiment . (via 123 Homeschool 4 ME)

(7) While many people either love or do not love bright marshmallow Peeps, everyone will love learning what makes them dissolve in this Dissolving Peeps experiment. (via A Dab of Glue Will Do)

experiments with household objects

(8) If your candy has transparent colored wrappers, you can save them to learn about color mixing in with this fun color science project . (via Kids’ Craft Room)

(9) There are many ways to learn about the human body, but we’re pretty sure that the sweetest way is with candy. Kids of all ages will love making this Candy DNA Model . (via Science Sparks)

(10) Your kids won’t be the only wiggle worms in the house with these fun Dancing Frankenworms . (via Playdough to Plato)

(11) Learn how powerful the sun can be with these DIY Solar Oven S’mores . We bet you can’t eat just one! (via Desert Chica)

(12) Your little scientists will LOVE this Mentos Geyser which will teach them what happens when carbon dioxide in Soda meets a Mentos candy, while putting on quite the display! (via I Can Teach My Child)

(13) Usually we’d advise that kids stay far away from broken glass – unless, this is, it’s this yummy Edible Glass ! (via Go Science Kids)

(14) This is a simple science experiment and a magic trick! Find out what happens to sugar when emerged in warm water with this cool Disappearing Candy Cane Stripes experiment. (via Playdough to Plato)

Science Experiments Using Water

If there is anything that is almost universally fun for kids, it’s playing with water. Try one of these fun water science experiments that are perfect for a rainy day indoors, or for keeping cool on a sunny day!

experiments with household objects

(1) If your little one enjoys all things colorful, they will love this incredible Walking Water Science Experiment – and all you need are paper towels, water and food coloring to get started. (via The Best Ideas for Kids)

(2) Your kids won’t believe their eyes when they see cabbage changing colors in this fun Rainbow Cabbage experiment . (via Growing a Jeweled Rose)

(3) Discover how different liquids react together with this easy experiment that creates a colorful Layered Density Column . (via Steve Spangler Science)

(4) Or learn how water travels upward through vines and stems all while creating a beautiful bouquet with these Color Changing Flowers . (via The Best Ideas for Kids)

(5) Observe how different liquids do or do not mix by creating Fireworks in a Jar . (via Hands on Teaching Ideas)

(6) Find out how temperature affects the density of water with this colorful Hot and Cold Water Density experiment. (via STEAMsational)

(7) “Grow” your own Rainbow with this colorful science experiment that highlights chromatography. (via The Best Ideas for Kids)

experiments with household objects

(8) Keep exploring the concept of absorption, diffusion and solubility while bringing out your creative side with this Coffee Filter Process Art . (via Babble Dabble Do)

(9) See how quickly you can move water from one container to the next using sponges in this fun Water Transfer Activity.  (via Live Well Play Together)

(10) Play with water and Bubbles while learning about surface tension and evaporation. (via Hello Wonderful)

(11) Who else had a lava lamp growing up? This DIY Frozen Lava Lamp experiment is not only simple and fun, but brings back the lava lamp nostalgia! (via Hello Wonderful)

(12) Explore the relationship between gas, pressure, and volume in this easy Rising Water Experiment . (via Team Cartwright)

(13) Explore the power of water pressure with this low-prep, big fun Water Suspension Science activity. (via A Mothership Down)

(14) If you are looking for an activity that you can do almost anywhere, take a couple of minutes for this Water Light Refraction Experiment . (via Go Science Kids)

(15) Learn about absorption and expansion by Measuring Water Beads. (via Blue Bear Wood)

(16) Kids will love watching their drawings come to life with these Floating Dry Erase Figures . So cool! (via Go Science Girls)

(17) What will happen if you poke a hole in a bag full of water? Will it leak? Not with this Leak Proof Bag experiment. (via Montessori from the Heart)

Life Science Experiments for Kids

One of our favorite things to learn about is how living things (ourselves included) work. These life science experiments and activities will spark your child’s curiosity about the world around them!

experiments with household objects

Life Science Experiments about the Human Body:

(1) Learn how our heart pumps blood to our bodies with this Heart Pump Model . (via Science Sparks)

(2) Your child can learn how our lungs work by making a Model Lung with simple materials you probably have around the house: a plastic bottle, straw, elastic band, balloons and play dough! (via Science Sparks)

(3) These printable life-sized organs allow kids to study their body anatomy in a hands-on way. (via Adventure in a Box)

(4) Learn all about scabs – what causes them (and why they’re so important not to pick!) by making a Fake Jelly Scab that can then be eaten! (via Science Sparks)

(5) If you’re willing to brave glitter, this Glitter Germs Hand Washing Activity teaches children the importance of thorough hand washing while talking about how germs spread. (via The Soccer Mom Blog)

(6) Or, try this Growing Germs easy science experiment which uses an apple and your own child’s germs to not only teach kids to wash their hands, but all about controls and variables too! (via Playdough to Plato)

(7) Demonstrate how tooth decay happens and how to prevent it by soaking eggshells in various liquids in this Tooth Decay experiment. Is sugar a culprit? A great lesson for kids. (via Sciencing)

(8) This super easy Heart Rate Investigation will teach your kids about their heart, blood circulation and pulse, but also get them moving! (via Science Sparks)

(9) Your budding artists will love this Magic Heart Painting activity. Watch the cardiovascular system appear before their eyes! (via Taming Little Monsters)

experiments with household objects

Life Science Experiments with Plants:

(10) How do different liquids affect plant growth? Find out with this Plant Growth experiment – it’s one of our favorite science experiments and makes a great Science Fair Project! (via Lemon Lime Adventures)

(11) Discuss how plants grow and what they need to thrive by growing a Bean in a Jar . (via Growling a Jeweled Rose)

(12) Or use a plastic bag instead! All you need is a Ziploc baggie, a few beans and a damp paper towel to Grow Beans in a Bag . (via Community Playthings)

(13) Combine engineering and science while learning all about germination with this DIY Sprout House . (via The STEM Laboratory)

(14) Observe plant growth both above and beneath the “ground” by planting bulbs in a clear cup . (via Buggy and Buddy)

(15) Watch how plants respond to sunlight in this super easy Plant and Sunlight Experiment . (via Mama Smiles)

(16) Kids will love learning How Leaves Breathe with this simple plant experiment. (via Edventures with Kids)

(17) Did you know that you can grow vegetables with scraps? Watch your scrap veggies grow new life with a Scrap Garden . (via Hess UnAcademy)

Easy Physics Science Experiments for Kids

Learn how things move with these simple physics experiments for kids. Physics is the branch of science that studies matter, how it moves, and how it interacts – it encompasses the study of motion, light, electricity, magnetism, aerodynamics, and sound.

We’ve found that the best way to explain physics to kids is to skip the explanation and do a hands-on demonstration instead. Use these fun experiments to jump feet first into the world of Physics:

experiments with household objects

(1) First off, a classic Craft Stick Catapult ! This simple activity is a great way to teach about energy cause and effect, as well as simple machines…and you thought you were just going to be launching marshmallows across the room! (via Team Cartwright)

(2) Explore physics and play at the same time with these awesome Pom Pom Shooters . (via Left Brain Craft Brain)

(3) This classic science fair project will teach your kids how to use chemistry to generate an electric current by making a Lemon/Lime Battery ! (via Babble Dabble Do)

(4) Explore the science of sound with this pretty Rainbow Water Xylophone . (via Mama Papa Bubba)

(5) Make a simple Newton’s Cradle out of popsicle sticks, string and marbles to demonstration the conservation of momentum – kids loooove this one! (via Babble Dabble Do)

(6) Send a balloon blasting off and introduce simple physics with these neat Balloon Straw Rockets . (via Preschool Play & Learn)

(7) Grab some plastic bottles and string to make this fun Inertia Zoom Ball – a project kids can learn and play with! (via What Do We Do All Day)

(8) Popsicle sticks, rubber bands and some blocks are all you need to make a Stixplosion – demonstrating chain reactions which you can use to teach about kinetic and potential energy. (via Babble Dabble Do)

experiments with household objects

(9) Make a Salty Circuit to introduce your kids to electricity and how it moves from a battery through a circuit to power an LED. (via Babble Dabble Do)

(10) Demonstrate work and energy with this super cool Paper Airplane Launcher . (via Frugal Fun 4 Boys and Girls)

(11) Visually show the concept of gravity with this easy Gravity Activity with Paperclips . (via Buggy and Buddy)

(12) If you’re feeling particularly ambitious, you can create your own Light Bulb Experiment to see how electricity travels through a circuit. (via 123 Homeschool for Me)

(13) Discover what things are magnetic and vice versa with this fun Magnet Fishing Game . Great for preschoolers! (via Rhythms of Play)

(14) Baseball fans will enjoy this Frozen Baseball Experiment to observe how temperature affects how a baseball travels. (via Our Family Code)

(15) Learn more about inertia with these easy Inertia Science Experiments with Pennies . (via Frugal Fun 4 Boys and Girls)

(16) This awesome Rollback Can is a simple physics project that will amaze your kids and demonstrate potential and kinetic energy. (via Babble Dabble Do)

(17) These 4 Magical Magnet Projects will teach your kids about magnetism, and they’ll be mesmerized by its power! (via Babble Dabble Do)

States of Matter Science Experiments for Kids

All matter is either a solid, liquid, or gas, right? Or is it? And what happens to make some matter change states more easily than others? Kids will love these easy States of Matter science activities where they will get to learn the answers to those questions and more! 

experiments with household objects

(1) This Simple Balloon experiment will teach young kids all about the 3 states of matter with a Hands-on Density test. (via 123 Homeschool 4 ME)

(2) Watch as liquid cream becomes a solid by making your own Homemade Butter . Make sure you taste test it too! (via Playdough to Plato)

(3) And because it’s always a good time for ice cream, see how simple ingredients come together and change state when you make this Ice Cream in a Bag . It’s also a great activity to discuss an exothermic reaction, a chemical reaction that releases light or heat. In this instance, heat is released from the shaking, yet it freezes the cream – science sure is amazing! (via House of Nash Eats)

(4) Fill up balloons with different types of liquid in this fun Water Balloon Science Experiment and then try and predict if they will float or sink in water. (via 123 Homeschool 4 ME)

(5) A messy project that is universally loved by kids – Oobleck ! This Non-Newtonian fluid can act like a solid and a liquid. And you can make it at home as long as you’ve got cornstarch in your pantry. (via The Best Ideas for Kids)

(6) Task your kids to create an insulated box for an ice cube using materials from around the house in this Don’t Melt the Ice experiment. (via Frugal Fun 4 Boys and Girls)

We hope this list of easy science experiments for kids proves that science doesn’t have to be complicated…or boring! With materials you already have at home, you can create a memorable learning experience, and you definitely don’t need a lab coat to watch science come alive!

RELATED: Looking for more fun indoor activities to keep your kids busy? Check out 87 Energy-Busting Indoor Games & Activities for Kids (because cabin fever is no joke!)

What’s your favorite science experiment? Let us know your favorites in the comments below!

Mary Leigh - what moms love

Mary Leigh is a stay-at-home mom to 3 fun and active boys. She started her blog,  Live Well Play Together , as a creative way to encourage moms to celebrate the simple, everyday moments in motherhood.  You can most often find her writing about kids’ activities, thoughts on motherhood, and simple ideas for family fun.  Follow her on  Pinterest ,  Instagram ,  Facebook , and  Twitter for fun ideas to bring a little fun to your everyday!

Mary Leigh

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  1. Easy and Fun Science Experiments to Try with Kids at Home

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  2. 49 Science Experiments for Kids to Try at Home

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  3. 15 Cool Experiments to do at Home with Household Items

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  4. 8 Fun and Easy Kids Science Experiments To Try At Home

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  5. 10 Fun and Easy Science Experiments for Toddlers to Do at Home

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COMMENTS

  1. 67 Easy Science Experiments for Kids Using Household Stuff

    Aug 31, 2023 · 8. Pepper and soap experiment. Dish soap, pepper, a toothpick, and a little bit of water are all kids need to feel like science wizards. Watch a little drop of soap chase pepper away in the pepper and soap experiment. 9. Balloon carbon dioxide experiment. Create carbon dioxide and hang on while you use it to fill up a balloon. 10. Skittles ...

  2. 76 Easy Science Experiments Using Materials You Already Have

    Dec 16, 2024 · While some experiments require expensive lab equipment or dangerous chemicals, there are plenty of cool projects you can do with regular household items. We’ve rounded up a big collection of easy science experiments that anybody can try, and kids are going to love them! Jump to: Easy Chemistry Science Experiments; Easy Physics Science Experiments

  3. 20 Amazingly Simple Science Experiments Using Household Items ...

    Cool Science Experiments with Household Items. The best thing about all these experiments for kids is that you can do them all with items right in your pantry, or cleaning cabinet. Shaving cream, baking soda, vinegar… you’d be very surprised what these basic household items can do with just a little imagination. Simple Science Experiments ...

  4. 50 Simple Science Experiments with Supplies You Already Have

    Simple Science Experiments with Water. Not only can water be a blast to play in, but water plus a few basic supplies equals a lot of science fun!. Make an orange sink and float with an orange buoyancy experiment from Playdough to Plato.

  5. 31 Easy Science Experiments and STEM Activities Using ...

    Mar 23, 2020 · Here are 31 easy science experiments using common household […] Finding My Inner Glow – Angel-Sansara July 11, 2022 At 9:43 pm Science experiment time!

  6. 17 Easy Science Experiments for Kids Using Household Items

    Sep 29, 2017 · Easy Science Experiments for Kids. These experiments are best suited for 3-6 year olds I think. But honestly I really like them, so maybe they’re for all ages! I’ve included any of the ingredients that you may or may not have on hand so you can easily pick an experiment that you can do right away! 1. Shaving Cream Rain Clouds

  7. 101 cheap budget science experiments for kids

    Nov 28, 2024 · So I’ve put together 101 cheap budget science experiments for kids! These cheap science experiments utilise common household items, inexpensive basic lab materials, or items you can get at the dollar store. These experiments are so much fun to do at home with your kids on rainy days, or to use in a science lab on a low budget.

  8. 100+ Easy Science Experiments for Kids To Do at Home (Using ...

    And you won’t have to make a special trip to the craft or hardware store – almost all of these fun science experiments use common household ingredients that you probably already have at home. Score! So what are you waiting for – dive right in and have some science fun! PIN for when you’re ready to perform a fun science experiment:

  9. 20 Science Experiments for Kids Using Household Items

    These science experiments for kids using household items are designed to be simple, safe, and perfect for all ages. The steps outlined here are for educational purpose only and results may differ. Keep in mind that this post is to show the children a practical understanding of scientific principles and for them to see the results of their ...

  10. 10 Easy Science Activities for Kids Using Household Items

    Nov 23, 2024 · Simple Science Experiments. Take kitchen science to the next level with simple ingredients and common household items. Explore chemical reactions at home with this fun (and safe) science experiment, Chemical Reactions with Pennies. How are crayons made? Try this fun Melting Crayons Science Experiment experiment with your old broken crayons.