Best Science Experiments for Children Ages 2-10

Best Science Experiments for Children Ages 2-10

Science is a fantastic way to spark curiosity and inspire children to explore the world around them, under the supervision of qualified adults and the professionals at organizations like Kids Science Labs.

From toddlers to pre-teens, hands-on experiments help kids learn through play and discovery. Below, we’ve compiled a list of age-appropriate science experiments for children ages 2-10 that are both fun and educational.

Disclaimer: We love science. However, all information below is for information purposes only. Children should not perform science experiments without adult supervision. Be safe always and never do anything in a way that it may cause damage to your house, home, person, or pets.

Science Projects for Two-Year-Olds

1. Color Mixing with Ice

Freeze water dyed with primary colors (red, yellow, blue) into ice cubes. Let your child explore mixing them in a clear bowl of warm water to watch new colors emerge.

2. Sink or Float

Fill a tub with water and provide small items like toys, corks, and coins. Ask your child to guess if each object will sink or float, then test it.

Science Experiments for Three-Year-Olds

1. Baking Soda and Vinegar Volcano

Using a small container, add baking soda and a few drops of food coloring. Pour in vinegar and watch the colorful eruption.

2. Bubble Snakes

Wrap a sock around the open end of a plastic bottle, secure it with a rubber band, dip it in soapy water, and blow through the mouthpiece to create a bubble snake.

Science Experiments for Four-Year-Olds

1. Magic Milk Experiment

Pour milk into a shallow dish and add drops of food coloring. Touch the surface with a cotton swab dipped in dish soap to see the colors dance.

2. Balloon Rocket

Tape a straw to a balloon, thread it onto a string stretched between two chairs, and release the balloon to watch it zip along the string.

Science Experiments for Five-Year-Olds

1. DIY Lava Lamp

Fill a clear bottle with water, oil, and food coloring. Add a tablet of Alka-Seltzer and watch the colorful blobs rise and fall.

2. Exploring Shadows

Use a flashlight to cast shadows with different objects, teaching about light and shadow.

Science Experiments for Six-Year-Olds

1. Growing Crystals

Dissolve salt or sugar in warm water, pour it into a jar, and let it sit undisturbed. Crystals will form as the water evaporates.

2. Simple Circuit

With a small battery, wires, and an LED bulb, create a simple circuit to teach the basics of electricity.

Science Experiments for Seven-Year-Olds

1. Slime Making

Combine glue, water, and borax solution to make stretchy, gooey slime. Experiment with adding small amounts glitter, or texture beads for customization. Be careful to read all labels and avoid using toxic or unsafe activator liquids that are undissolved as they could be harmful to small pets and toddlers.

2. Cloud in a Jar

Add hot water to a glass jar, spray hairspray inside, and seal the top with ice. Watch a cloud form inside the jar.

Science Experiments for Eight-Year-Olds

1. Egg Drop Challenge

Challenge your child to design a contraption to protect an egg from breaking when dropped from a height.

2. Rainbow in a Glass

Layer liquids of different densities (honey, dish soap, water, oil) in a clear glass to create a colorful rainbow.

Science Experiments for Nine-Year-Olds

1. DIY Sundial

Teach time-telling by marking shadow positions of a stick in the ground at hourly intervals.

2. Paper Bridge Strength Test

Experiment with folding techniques to see how much weight different paper bridges can support.

Science Experiments for Ten-Year-Olds

1. DIY Periscope

Using cardboard and mirrors, build a periscope to learn about reflection and optics.

2. Balloon-Powered Car

Build a car using a small box, straws, bottle caps, and a balloon to understand propulsion.

Best Places for Your Kids to Perform Science Experiments

If you’re looking for a hands-on learning environment for your child to explore science, Kids Science Labs is the ultimate destination and has the #1 STEM Program for Kids in Seattle and Chicago. Their expert educators and creative learning environments are designed to ignite curiosity and build real confidence in problem solving. .

Kids Science Labs staff lead kids in Chicago Summer Camps to perform all the experiments above to a higher level with useful and relevant discussion that is age appropriate. You also should know that Kids Science Labs also offers kids birthday parties in each of their beautiful Chicago and Seattle centers that allow for your child to have a fun, educational summer.

Since 2010, Kids Science Labs has had the #1 STEM Program for Kids, offering classes for each major age group that differentiate difficulty levels and the depth of conceptual understanding to make sure that each age group has a valuable experience.

At Kids Science Labs, kids can answer questions like “How do you make slime stretchy?” in a fun, hands-on way that combines learning with excitement. Whether it’s through our STEM camps or birthday parties, we offer an experience that leaves kids inspired and eager to learn more. 

Other great places to explore science include:

1. Science Museums – Interactive exhibits that make science fun.

2. Local Libraries – Many host free science workshops for kids.

3. Community Centers – Often offer seasonal science programs.

4. Nature Centers – Combine science with outdoor exploration.

Give your child the gift of discovery and creativity. Book a class, camp, or party at Kids Science Labs today and watch their love for science grow! Book Here.

Top Summer Camps that also provide Gifted STEM Programs for Kids

Top Summer Camp Chicago

Summer in Chicago is a time for kids to explore, learn, and have fun. For parents, finding the right summer camp can be a challenge, especially with so many options available. Whether you’re looking for an affordable program, a specialized camp, or an unforgettable science experience, we’ve got you covered. Here are our top 5. 

1. Kids Science Labs: At Kids Science Labs, we focus on providing a unique summer camp experience where kids explore their scientific curiosity. With weekly themes, our camps are packed with interactive experiments and creative problem-solving. In 2025 our camps rotate every 4 weeks as a part of our Engineering University, and the camp titles are Our world according to Physics, Gadgets and Inventions, Design Time Live!, and Chem Busters. You can learn more about our popular and engaging camps here on our website. 

2. Chicago Park District: Affordable day camps offering activities like sports, arts, and swimming in local parks.

3. YMCA Camp: A trusted favorite with programs focusing on teamwork, physical activity, and community building.

4. All About Dance Summer Camp: Perfect for kids who love to move, featuring dance classes and creative choreography projects.

5. Altitude Chicago Summer Camp: For adventure enthusiasts, this camp includes activities like trampoline games and physical challenges.

Affordable Summer Camps in Chicago

Finding a high-quality summer camp that fits your budget can be tough. Fortunately, Chicago offers a variety of affordable options without compromising on educational value and fun. Many local organizations, including community centers and schools, provide:

• General Day Camps: These camps offer diverse activities, including sports, crafts, and games, at reasonable prices.

• Special Interest Camps: Some camps focus on art, music, or nature and often have sliding scale fees or scholarships available.

At Kids Science Labs, we’re proud to offer engaging, educational science camps that are competitively priced. Our week-long sessions are designed to maximize value for families, providing hands-on learning experiences that kids love and parents appreciate.

Why Science Camp is Worth It

Science camps offer much more than just experiments and labs. Chicago Science Camps, like those at MSI< Adler Planetarium, Field Museum, and Kids Science Labs, nurture curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, all while being incredibly fun. Here are a few reasons why science camps are a great investment in your child’s summer:

1. Hands-On Learning: Kids don’t just listen—they experiment, build, and create.

2. Real-World Skills: Camps often focus on teamwork, communication, and innovation.

3. Inspiration for the Future: Exposing kids to STEM fields early can spark lifelong interests and even influence career paths.

4. Fun and Friendship: Science camps combine education with play, ensuring kids form lasting memories and friendships.

Why Kids Science Labs is the rated as one of the best Summer Science Camps in Chicago

Kids Science Labs is more than just a camp—it’s a place where kids’ imaginations come to life and they build growth mindsets in students to solve real problems with real science. When you think about your Chicago Summer Camp choice, here are a few reasons why you should at least consider a few weeks at Kids Science Labs

• Engaging Curriculum: Each week has a unique theme that challenges kids to think critically and creatively. From designing eco-friendly cities to exploring space science, every session is packed with excitement.

• Expert Educators: Our Teachers and counselors are passionate about making science accessible and inspiring for kids of all ages.

• Hands-On Fun: We focus on experiments and activities that encourage kids to ask questions, test ideas, and learn through discovery.

• Beautiful Facilities with Adjacent Green Space: Our labs are fully equipped with tools and materials to support an engaging STEM experience.

• Flexible Registration: Unlock most other Chicago Summer Camps, Kids Science Labs allows parents to register for 1 week, or all 12 weeks of summer, with flexible and affordable memberships for families. With multiple sites across Chicago, there’s a higher chance that you will find a Kids Science Labs Summer Camp near me.

At Kids Science Labs, we believe that every child is a natural-born scientist and curious about the world around them. Our camps are designed to tap into that potential and make summer an unforgettable season of exploration and discovery.

CONSIDER WHAT IS BEST FOR YOUR FAMILY, ASK QUESTIONS ABOUT SUMMER CAMP EXPERIENCES, AND THEN ENJOY YOUR SUMMER PEACE, WHILE YOUR KDIS ARE LOVING CHICAGO SUMMER CAMPS

Don’t let summer pass by without giving your child an amazing experience. Check out other top summer camp guides to find the perfect camp for your little scientist. With hands-on activities, expert instructors, and a focus on fun, you can find what you are looking for in a chicago summer camp and just be ready to make this summer the best one yet!

Best Birthday Party Ideas for Kids in Chicago

Best Birthday Party Ideas for Kids in Chicago

Planning a memorable birthday party for your child in Chicago is an exciting endeavor, especially with the variety of kids birthday party venues available. Here's a comprehensive guide to four popular options: Dave & Buster's, WhirlyBall, Chuck E. Cheese, and Kids Science Labs. Each offers unique amenities, party packages, and themes to ensure an unforgettable celebration.

Dave & Busters is a great birthday party idea

Dave & Buster's combines dining with a vast arcade, making it a fun birthday party for kids who love games and interactive entertainment. One of the most popular birthday party venues for sports kids, its a good choice for tweens and teens in Chicago looking for a fun birthday party idea.

• ●  Location: 1030 N. Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60610

• ●  Party Packages:

  • Ranging from $28.99 - $38.99 for food packages, this birthday party venue definitely knows how to provide both food and interactive entertainment

• ●  Amenities:

  • ○  Over 200 arcade games.

  • ○  Multiple TV screens for sports and entertainment.

  • ○  Various room types to accommodate different group sizes.

• ●  Add-Ons:

  • ○  Dessert options.

  • ○  Appetizer upgrades.
    

2. Kids Science Labs has been on every best kids birthday party venue list since 2011

For a hands-on, educational experience, Kids Science Labs offers science-themed birthday parties that inspire creativity and curiosity. Known for having the best private birthday party venue in Chicago, where you and your guests have full access to the facility for the duration of your party.

Unlike other kid’s birthday party venues, Kids Science Labs parties are hands-on and fully customizable by parents in their beautiful locations near Lakeview, South Loop and for Northshore Families looking to arrange a special kid’s birthday party experience.

Kids Science Labs is one of the few birthday party venues in Chicago that offers 100% private birthday parties from start to finish.

• Convenient Birthday Party Locations in Roscoe Village, South Loop, and Northbrook

• ●  Party Packages:

• ○ Standard Package: Full Private Venue for starts at $575. Includes a 90-minute private party with interactive science experiments led by experienced instructors.

○ Additional Children: $30 per child for extra kids allows parents flexibility if siblings, cousins, or extra fiends show up that were unplanned.

● Birthday Party Amenities:

○  3,000 sq ft private lab space.

○  Customized science experiments tailored to the birthday child's interests.

○  All necessary materials and safety equipment provided.

● Kids Birthday Party Add-Ons:

○  Customized slime kits including safety googles

○  Additional time or specialized experiments upon request

3. WhirlyBall is a Chicago Favorite Birthday Destination

WhirlyBall offers a unique blend of lacrosse, basketball, and bumper cars, providing an active and engaging experience for older children and teenagers.

●  Location: 1825 W. Webster Avenue, Chicago, IL 60614

●  Party Packages:

Customized based on group size and activities.

○  Options include WhirlyBall, laser tag, and bowling.

○  Contact the venue for specific pricing and package details.

● Amenities:

○  Multiple activity options (WhirlyBall, laser tag, bowling).

○  Private event spaces

○  On-site dining with customizable menus.

● Add-Ons:

○  Event planning assistance.

○  Themed decorations upon request.

4. Chuck E Cheese is still a fun arcade themed birthday party for kids

A super classic choice for younger children, Chuck E. Cheese offers a fun-filled environment with games, pizza, and live entertainment. For decades, parents and kids have appreciated the open arcade and animatronics, integrated with live entertainment and food.

• ●  Location: 1770 W. Fullerton Avenue, Chicago, IL 60614

• ●  Party Packages:

  • ○  Fun Package: $99.99 for 6 kids. Includes 2 hours of unlimited gameplay, unlimited soft drinks, decorated table, and the Chuck E. Cheese birthday show. Additional kids can be added for $19.99 each.

  • ○  Mega Fun Package: Per child pricing varies. Offers 2 slices of pizza per child, a dedicated party host, collectible cups, and upgraded prizes (250 bonus E-Tickets).

  • ○  Ultimate Fun Package: Per child pricing varies. Includes additional large pizzas, Dippin’ Dots ice cream, and the highest prize upgrades (500 bonus E-Tickets).

  ●  Amenities:

  • ○  Live Chuck E. Cheese birthday show.

    ○  Exclusive Birthday Ticket Blaster experience.

    ○  Variety of arcade games suitable for all ages.

  ●  Add-Ons:

  • ○  Dippin’ Dots ice cream.

    ○  Collectible cups with free lifetime refills.

    ○  Themed decorations and party favors.

If you are interested in some other kids birthday party ideas, you can find additional birthday party ideas here:

Elementary Students Learn Heat Transfer in preparation for Mid-Winter Break Seattle

Our Seattle Summer Camps are special, and as we prepare for the upcoming Mid-Winter Break in Seattle, Heat Transfer is on the agenda at Kids Science labs

Anyone who has stayed outside during cold or warm weather, especially, if you were at the top of Mt. Rainier, understands that hot things make adjacent items hot (sit closer to camp fire to warm up), and similar with cold temperatures (don’t put your hands on the ice if you want them to be warm).

How can you explain Heat Transfer in a Seattle Summer Camp for Kids?

Kids are brilliant and a simple experiment and experience can teach them what they need to know for true conceptual understanding. For nearly 15 years, oru Seattle Summer Camps have taken this approach to asking kids interesting questions, that present real problems, where a simple experiment is the answer to learn in a fun way.

Without getting too much into the science, the basic question is “Why does it burn my hand when i touch a pot, but the pot handle is not nearly as hot”? Well, the basic answer, as our students at Kids Science Labs learned today on a Middle School Field Trip, is Heat Transfer. Cold temperatures and hot temperatures can “transfer” the heat through any conductive materials (i.e. metals).

A Pot Handle is designed with either a hollow core or specialty materials and shapes to dissipate heat. In our Seattle Summer Camps and our STEM Programs for Kids, we are focused on teaching heat transfer to our students using real science and real hands-on experiments.

Seattle Summer Camps that teach kids heat transfer at Kids Science Labs

At home, run some warm water over plastic vs. a stick and ask kids which of the materials got “warmer” and how long did it take. Now do the same experiment over a spoon…and you will have insights into the type of basic science that is powerful for kids.

Our Summer Camps are powerful opportunities to engage elementary kids outside of field trips, and give Seattle Summer Camps something special to build kids Science Facts to outperform long-term in life.