Kids are born scientists, and that natural curiosity can lead them on journeys of exploration and discovery. Encourage your child to get interested in the STEM fields of science, technology, engineering and math, and the problem-solving skills they acquire will reap lifelong benefits.
National Geographic teaches kids about the world of science through a series of more than a dozen specialized science kits. If you or your child is interested in a science kit where you can grow a crystal, create dueling water tornadoes and build an erupting volcano, consider the National Geographic Earth Science Kit.
National Geographic science kits inspire the next generation of scientists and explorers by igniting their imaginations and creating a lifelong love of science, experimentation and exploration. From biology to chemistry, physics and natural history, National Geographic science kits demonstrate scientific principles through hands-on activities and experiments.
STEM learning covers science, technology, engineering and math.
Science. There are three main areas in science:
Technology. Growing up in a computerized world, kids have a head start on learning about technology such as electronics, computer hardware and software and robotics. Other tech areas include solar and alternative energy, flight and rocketry.
Engineering. Kids who like to build things choose from engineering fields including mechanical, electrical, civil and industrial.
Math. Everyone in the STEM fields needs to know math. Most math is taught by lessons, not by experiments.
Younger children should start out with simple science kits and move up to more complex kits as they grow. Here are some broad guidelines:
Instructions for conducting the experiments in National Geographic science kits are simple, straightforward and clearly written. Step-by-step instructions teach learners how to plan strategies for problem-solving.
National Geographic is one of many companies that sell science kits. It is a respected organization dedicated to teaching and learning.
Children gain the most benefit from science kits that have a flair for the dramatic. Growing crystals in only a few days is near-magic, as is building a volcano that literally erupts. It is exciting to dig up perfectly preserved spiders, beetles and scorpions.
Most of NatGeo’s science kits cost from $15-$25. Above that you will find science kits that include collections of rocks, crystals and fossils and kits containing a dozen or more experiments. Below $15 you will find kits with a single activity, suitable for the younger scientist.
A. No. The joy of experimentation and discovery is inside all of us. Parents who buy science kits for their young children explore along with them and guide them along their journey.
A. Keep in mind that kids need to build up to more complex things one step at a time. Use age ranges only as guidelines, because children develop through life stages at different paces. When in doubt, choose a National Geographic science kit that is too simple rather than one so complicated that your child could become frustrated.
National Geographic Earth Science Kit
What you need to know: This kit includes 15 experiments including creating dueling water tornadoes, growing a crystal, and building a volcano that erupts on cue.
What you’ll love: The detailed learning guide teaches about science at work with instructions that are clear and easy to follow. This National Geographic science kit has snowflake obsidian, tiger’s eye, green fluorite, blue calcite, desert rose, an agate and a geode, a great start for the beginning rock collector.
What you should consider: The guide may be too detailed for some.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
National Geographic Break Open 10 Premium Geodes
What you need to know: Discover the treasures of the crystals inside when you break open these rocks.
What you’ll love: The 10 crystal-filled geodes in this science kit range from as small as a pingpong ball to as big as a tennis ball. All have been hand-selected to give you maximum variety. A detailed, full-color learning guide is inside.
What you should consider: Make sure you wear the goggles they have included to protect your eyes.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
National Geographic Ultimate Erupting Volcano Kit
What you need to know: This science kit has pop crystals that add exciting sounds to your eruptions and three times the erupting powder of the previous version.
What you’ll love: This kit is a classic STEM project that teaches kids about chemistry, geology and earth science and is a great hands-on experiment to be performed at science fairs. You get real volcanic rocks with this science kit, including pumice and a geode specimen. The full-color learning guide teaches about each rock and provides a wealth of information about the science behind volcanoes.
What you should consider: The learning guide provides tips on how to create eruptions using common household items.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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David Allan Van writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
