Simon's Science Space

Science kits are a fantastic way to introduce kids to the wonders of the world around them. They combine hands-on learning with fun, turning curiosity into discovery. Whether you’re raising a future scientist/engineer or just want your kids to have some screen-free fun, these kits offer an engaging gateway into STEM. As a parent and science teacher, I have purchased my fair share of science kits and subscription boxes and have listed some of my all-time favorites below. So, in no particular order, and in no way sponsored, here are my top picks.

Creating a borax snowflake combines chemistry and creativity. This experiment demonstrates the concept of super saturation but also mimics how real snowflakes form in the cold by crystallizing on a nucleus.

Have you ever wondered why we "fall back" and set our clocks back one hour every autumn? This change is known as Daylight Savings Time (DST), and it's something that people have been doing for over a century. While it might seem like a small change, DST has a big impact on our lives, health, and even science. Let’s take a look at why we observe Daylight Savings Time, especially in the fall, and how it connects to scientific research.

Halloween is the perfect time to get kids involved in hands-on science! With themes of magic potions, mad scientists, ghosts, and pumpkins, there are limitless way to incorporate science experiments into your Halloween celebrations. Here are three of my favorite experiments to get kids excited about science during the spooky season.

Yesterday my 3rd grade daughter and her friends were on the case to solve a mystery of an object floating high in the sky over their school in Colorado. Was it a rocket? A satellite? An astronaut? A balloon? ALIENS?! Well, as it turns out, according to this article from Colorado Public Radio, the object was a Stratollite Balloon launched by World View Enterprises. My daughter and her friends had many follow-up questions after learning what the object was, so let’s dive into what Stratollites are, how they work, and why they’re so important for science!

My students are mesmerized by outer space and astronomy. One of the most spectacular displays in astronomy is a meteor shower and it’s a wonderful way to instill awe in aspiring scientists. These shooting stars are not really stars at all but rather tiny pieces of space debris, usually no bigger than a grain of sand, that enter Earth’s atmosphere at high speed and burn up, creating bright streaks of light.

The Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognizable structures in the world. As the Tower has been displayed over the course of the Olympics this month, my 10 year old dreams of the day she can go to Paris and witness it’s grandeur in person. But beyond its iconic status as a symbol of France, the Eiffel Tower is a masterpiece of engineering and science. Built for the 1889 World's Fair, the tower's construction was a significant achievement in architectural and engineering history.

Last week I introduced the idea of sports being grounded by a variety of different scientific principals. When I was younger, I was a swimmer and diver so these water sports hold a special place in my heart. I had NO idea that there was actually science involved in these sports until I was in my 30's and training for a triathlon. How could I have been on a swim team for 4 years and not understand drag or stroke mechanics?! The truth is, I DID understand these things, and my coaches sure as heck ingrained "proper form,"  I just didn't realize that I was doing science when I was perfecting my "catch and pull" motions!  Understanding the scientific principles behind these fun aquatic activities not only enhances performance but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the sports. Check out our Science of Sports Activity Bundle to learn more about all the scientific concepts involved in sports. Now, let's dive into (pun intended) the scientific principals underpinning swimming and diving:

We are SO close to the 2024 Summer Olympics! I can’t wait to see how the best athletes in the world get awarded gold medals for their strength, agility, and endurance. As I was following the Olympic Trials, it occurred to me that underlying all these physical feats are various scientific principles that enhance performance, prevent injuries, and improve technique. From physics and math to nutrition and psychology, sports science is a multidisciplinary field that plays a crucial role in modern athletics. Our Science of Sports Activity Bundle will teach kids ages 8-12 years old all about the Science of Olympic Sports! Here are just some of the ways that you will see science in the Olympics this month:

As Tropical Storm Beryl is ramping up to hit the coast of Texas in a couple days, I was asked why storms like this always happen in the summer. So, as someone completely untrained in meteorology or atmospheric science, my best explanation of why there are storms in the summer is that the combination of increased heat and moisture in the atmosphere create favorable conditions for storm development. Here are the main reasons why storms are more common during the summer:

The Fourth of July is a time for fireworks, barbecues, and patriotic celebrations. This year, why not add a spark of curiosity and excitement by incorporating science experiments into your festivities? Engaging in hands-on activities not only provides entertainment for all ages but also encourages learning and discovery.

National insect week is upon us, and as I battle an invasion of Grasshoppers in my garden, I am finding it difficult to appreciate these tiny creatures. When we think of insects, many of us immediately picture nuisances that invade our homes, spoil our picnics, or devastate our gardens. However, understanding the positive roles of these insects can help us appreciate their place in the natural world and reconsider our approach to pest management. So, I'm going to put down the flame thrower, and try to admire the unsung heroics of these critters for the following reasons: