When you have curious and active kids and want a screen-free activity that will capture their attention, try a motion science project!
Many kids learn better while they are moving and they will love these science projects which examine force and motion which are perfectly suited for kids who can't sit still. They don't require special materials so they are useful for busy parents, teachers and caregivers who want an after-school or weekend activity that will WOW! the kids.
Inertia Zoom Ball
As you would correctly guess from the name, inertia zoom ball teaches kids about inertia, or, how force changes motion. You'll need two young scientists in order to operate the experiment and zoom the "ball" across the track. We had fun decorating our zoom "balls" to look like flying creatures. However, the experiment works just fine without the pre-experiment crafting session. Learn how to conduct an inertia zoom ball experiment.
MORE: How Failure Teaches Kids to Think Like a Scientist
Paper Boomerang
Learn about how aerodynamic lift and gyroscopic precession influence the way a boomerang flies through the air. Because kids are designing their own boomerang, this project fulfills the science, engineering and art & design criteria of a great STEAM project! Experiment with how to create your own paper boomerang without using a template. Bonus: a paper boomerang is generally safe to experiment with indoors!
MORE: Fun At-Home Science Experiments
Balloon Rocket Races
A balloon rocket race is not only tons of fun but teaches kids about propulsion! Set up an extra long racing track and your active kids will get lots of exercise running back and forth from start to finish. Balloon rocket races can be performed indoors or outdoors.
MORE: Blowing Up a Balloon Science Experiement
Noise Spinner
Learn about how motion can create sound with this sound spinner. Noise spinners are also an excellent science craft project for parties or celebrations (like New Year's Eve!) when the sound created by spinning the noise maker adds to the festivities.
MORE: 50 Science Books for Kids
Whirligig
A whirligig is a classic toy that operates by centrifugal force. Not only is spinning a whirligig fun on its own, but when kids decorate their discs with patterns, they can discover how motion can alter what we think we see. Kids will also be fascinated to learn how this simple toy has inspired a low-cost test for malaria!
MORE: Explore the Science of Sight with a Thaumatrope
Leave a Reply