Things to Do with Kids in Seattle That are Fun

Seattle For Kids

Seattle is a city full of exciting opportunities for children to explore, learn, and have fun! Whether you’re a local or visiting, there’s no shortage of kid-friendly activities that will make lasting memories. Seattle has something for every child, from engaging birthday parties to summer programs that foster creativity and growth. Let’s dive into some of the best things to do for Seattle Kids!

Things to Do for a Kids Birthday in Seattle

Planning a fun and memorable birthday celebration for your child? Seattle offers a variety of exciting venues where kids can celebrate their special day. Here are some fantastic birthday party options for your little one:

1. Kids Science Labs

Known for outstanding teaching, and hands-on science discovery that addresses kids fundamental curiosity, , Kids Science Labs is the ultimate Seattle Fun Thing to Do with kids. Our Seattle Summer Camps and kids birthday parties are engaging, fun, and hands-on. Kids will get to perform exciting experiments, create gooey slime, and dive into the world of science with our loved teachers. We have been perfecting our science experiments and activities since 2010 and love to engage and exite children age four and up. If your child loves asking, "How does this work?" and "Can I try that?", Kids Science Labs is an excellent place to foster their curiosity.

2. Roaring Mouse is a Great Seattle Place for Kids

If your child loves creative play, Roaring Mouse offers an amazing experience with DIY art and craft birthday parties. Kids get to create their own masterpieces, make a mess, and enjoy their artistic endeavors. It’s a perfect way to let children explore their artistic side while having a blast with friends.

3. Hands On Children’s Museum

The Hands On Children’s Museum in Olympia (a short drive from Seattle) is a great place to host a birthday party. With interactive exhibits on everything from science to art and water play, it’s sure to keep kids entertained and engaged all day long. The museum provides educational fun that encourages curiosity and hands-on learning.

4. Arena Sports

For kids who love to stay active, Arena Sports offers birthday party packages featuring games, inflatables, and plenty of space to run around. Whether it’s soccer, dodgeball, or an obstacle course, Arena Sports delivers a high-energy celebration experience.

5. Catapult Adventure Park

If your child loves adventure and thrill, Catapult Adventure Park is an exciting option. With activities like a giant swing, zip lines, and aerial obstacle courses, it’s a perfect destination for an adrenaline-filled birthday party. Kids will love the challenge and the adventure in a fun and safe environment.

Seattle Summer Programs for Children

Summer is the perfect time for kids to explore new interests, build skills, and have fun. In Seattle, there are plenty of summer programs that offer everything from STEM activities to arts and sports. Here are some of the best programs for your child:

1. Kids Science Labs

At Kids Science Labs, our summer programs are designed to engage young minds in hands-on learning experiences that combine science, creativity, and fun. From experimenting with slime to learning about physics and chemistry through play and STEAM projects, our summer camps keep kids curious and excited about learning. Kids will gain confidence in science, build problem-solving skills, and make new friends—all in an interactive, engaging environment. We are located at 405 NE 71st St in Seattle, Washington. To learn more about our summer camps, visit here.

2. Tech Revolution

Tech Revolution offers summer programs where kids dive into the world of coding, robotics, and computer science. Kids will have the chance to build their own apps, robots, and video games while learning valuable STEM skills. If your child loves technology and problem-solving, this is the perfect program for them!

3. Seattle Parks and Recreation

Seattle Parks and Recreation offers a wide variety of summer programs for kids, including outdoor camps, sports, art, and swimming. These programs allow kids to enjoy the natural beauty of Seattle while learning new skills and making lasting friendships.

4. YMCA

The YMCA provides summer camps that focus on fitness, arts, and outdoor activities. Whether your child is interested in sports, nature, or building new friendships, the YMCA offers fun and educational opportunities to make the most of the summer.

5. Froglegs Cooking School

For kids who love cooking and trying new things, Froglegs Cooking School offers fun and interactive culinary camps. From baking to making international dishes, your child will develop essential cooking skills while learning about different cultures through food.

Seattle is bursting with amazing opportunities for kids to have fun and learn new things. Whether it’s celebrating a birthday with science experiments at Kids Science Labs or enrolling your child in a summer program that fosters creativity and critical thinking, there’s no shortage of exciting options. Whatever you choose, make this summer a season of adventure, learning, and fun for your child!

What if the Burj Khalifa was made of bundled spaghetti? Summer Camps in Chicago Are Curious

Exploring Structural Engineering for Elementary Students is a Great way to Explore Summer Camp in Chicago

Kids are curious about so many things, and their questions never stop. This natural curiosity must be developed and nurtured. One way to accelerate careers in STEM is to enroll kids from 4-14 in the best STEM Summer Camps in Chicago and STEAM Summer Camps in Seattle.

Examples of our #1 Rated Summer Camps in Chicago for PreK - 8th Grade include Structural Engineering Classes

Our students tested and evaluated the effects of real science in the city, by testing and evaluating various materials and their impact on stability and structural integrity for tall towers. When we think of our city, we mostly see wood, brick and steel, but what would our cities be like if they were made of marshmallows, plant fibers, or environmentally sustainable materials like corn. We challenged students to really ideate solutions for using new building materials and techniques applied to tall towers, if we ran out of iron or could no longer afford to use wood.

To build math super powers in Kids in our Summer Camps, we used hands-on science and STEM experiments to explore:

• The ability of everyday materials to sustain load (Load-bearing capacity)

• How to improve stability of tall towers by using strong foundations

• Evaluating the impact of different building strategies on their impact to create stable, tall, and sustainable towers.

At Kids Science Labs Summer Camp in Chicago, Kids Design Custom Innovation Boxes that they take home.

Inside your child’s Innovation Box, you will find additional building materials for thinking of unique and creative problems for the issues that arise just experiencing Science in the City with our builder’s paradise at Kids Science Labs!

As members, please take advantage of our KSL Rewards Program that offers benefits to our entire community. Call us at (773-798-2012 or email support@kidssciencelabs.com) and mention “KSL Blog”

• 20% off any new program registration (parties, camps, group events, field trips) after this camp

• Free access to KSL Academy Programs for gifted and enthusiastic young scientists

• Social media raffle for members to win birthday party giveaways at Kids Science Labs

• Exclusive members-only Youtube content that powers kids to outperform in STEM long-term and on NGSS tests in 3rd, 5th, and 7th grade!

  ….Watch below with your child to advance their learning of how the tallest buildings in our cities were designed and built!

Science Demonstrations Offer Complimentary Observational Skills for Young Scientists

Great Places To Go If You're Looking for Science Demonstrations

Science demonstrations are a fantastic way to ignite curiosity and excitement in young learners. Whether they’re making slime or watching a volcano erupt, kids are naturally captivated by science in action. If you’re looking for places that offer engaging and educational science demonstrations, there are plenty of exciting options to explore. Here are five great places where you can experience thrilling science demonstrations with your child.

Science Demonstrations for Elementary Students

Science demonstrations are particularly beneficial for elementary students, such as on Field Trips and with STEM Programs for Kids, as they offer a hands-on way to engage with science concepts. By watching live experiments and demonstrations, children get to see science in action, making scientific concepts more concrete and easier to understand. While watching demonstrations elementary students get the chance to ask their questions and learn more about the science of the world around them. Here are some top places to watch science demonstrations that are perfect for elementary-aged children:

1. Kids Science Labs

At Kids Science Labs, we provide dynamic, hands-on science demonstrations that will captivate your child’s attention and spark their curiosity. From exciting chemistry experiments to thrilling physics demonstrations, our teachers use interactive performances to engage kids in a variety of STEM topics.

Many demonstrations occur during school field trips, and range from:

• Elephant Toothpaste

• Mentos & Coke

• Flaming Balloons

• Smashing Xbox LASERS

• Grappling Hook Demos to

• Oobleck Eggs…

Also, at their kids birthday parties, their staff create huge chemical reactions in volcanoes and make various household slimes that change colors and fizz. Kids Science Labs focuses on building your child's creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Parents, children, and teachers love our summer camps, STEM Programs, engaging birthday parties, and fun science classes for kids taught by our wonderful teachers in creative learning environments. We offer demos where kids get to participate, asking questions and seeing firsthand how science works. It's a great way for children to learn about the world of science in a fun, immersive environment! 

2. Children’s Museums

Children’s museums often feature science demonstration days where kids can learn through interactive exhibits and live experiments. Many museums have science areas dedicated to showcasing different scientific concepts such as electricity, physics, and biology. These demonstrations are designed to be hands-on, giving kids the opportunity to get involved in the process and ask questions. Many children’s museums also have rotating science shows that highlight specific topics, making each visit a new and exciting experience.

3. Planetariums and Science Centers

Planetariums and science centers are amazing places to experience science demonstrations, particularly if your child is interested in astronomy and space exploration. Many science centers host live demonstrations about the universe, gravity, and light, often accompanied by visual aids like interactive displays and projections. Kids can watch demonstrations that explain complex topics in a way that is engaging and easy to grasp. Planetariums, in particular, often have shows that demonstrate how stars and planets move across the sky.

4. Science Festivals offer Live Science DEMOS

Science festivals are held all over the country and often feature live science demonstrations that highlight the wonders of chemistry, physics, biology, and engineering. These festivals can include everything from rocket launches to experiments involving fire and explosions! Festivals are a great way to expose kids to a variety of scientific topics, and many of these events have hands-on exhibits where children can participate in the experiments themselves. Check your local community calendar for upcoming science festivals near you!

5. Universities and Colleges Have Science Departments that offer Public Weekend Science Demonstrations

Many universities and colleges host public science events, which often include science demonstrations. These events are usually organized by science departments and feature live presentations that explore topics like chemistry, biology, and physics. At these events, university students or faculty members will perform experiments that demonstrate scientific principles in action. Many schools also offer summer camps and family-oriented programs that include science demonstrations, making them a perfect place to learn more about science from a professional perspective.

Science Performances That Could Be Near You 

Science performances are a fun way to experience the magic of science through live demonstrations, skits, and shows that explain scientific principles. If you find yourself searching “science performances near me”, these performances often combine entertainment with education, making learning fun and accessible for kids. Here are a few options to check out:

1. Kids Science Labs

At Kids Science Labs, we offer engaging science performances that blend fun with learning. Our performances cover a wide range of science topics and are designed to make complex concepts easier for kids to understand. During our camps, in both their Seattle and Chicago centers, beyond their real experiments performed by kids, teachers offer relevant demos for whatever project students are working on that day.

Science demonstrations/performances, such as elephant toothpaste are also available during STEM Programs for Kids, birthday parties are particularly a hit because they are put to a larger scale and are a favorite for younger children.  Whether it’s an explosive chemistry demo or an exciting physics performance, we create interactive experiences that encourage kids to ask questions and explore the science behind the experiments. 

2. Local Science Performers

In many communities, local science performers offer interactive shows that bring science to life. These performances often feature engaging experiments, magical science tricks, and even storytelling, where children can learn about scientific principles in a fun and theatrical way. These shows are often held in libraries, community centers, or even schools. Check with your local libraries or schools to see if they have any upcoming performances!

3. IMAX Theater Shows

Many IMAX theaters offer large-scale science performances in the form of 3D movies that explore topics such as space exploration, natural history, or environmental science. These films often feature breathtaking visuals and narrations that explain scientific phenomena in an exciting and immersive way. While not "live" performances, IMAX shows are a great way for kids to see science from a different perspective, making abstract topics more relatable.

4. Science-Themed Puppet Shows

For younger children, science-themed puppet shows are a fantastic way to introduce them to the wonders of science in a playful and entertaining way. These performances often combine storytelling with science experiments, making it fun and engaging for kids to learn about everything from the human body to the laws of physics. Look for local theaters or children's libraries that might host science-themed puppet shows or storytelling events.

5. Science Camps and Workshops

Many science camps and workshops, such as those offered by science centers and museums, include performance-style demonstrations as part of their curriculum. For example, at Kids Science Labs, they smash microwave ovens, Xbox Controllers, and Open Refrigerators all to ensure that they demonstrate how real science is applied to real life.

Kids can participate in live experiments and watch performances from educators who explain the science behind their actions. These interactive experiences are a great way to combine hands-on learning with a captivating performance.

Why Is Watching Science Demonstrations Good for Kids?

Watching science demonstrations is an incredibly valuable experience for children, offering numerous educational and developmental benefits. Here’s why:

1. Building Observation Skills and Visual Learning

Science demonstrations help children understand abstract concepts by providing them with visual examples. Watching experiments unfold right before their eyes allows kids to grasp complex ideas like chemical reactions, physics principles, and biological processes in a tangible way. The visual nature of demonstrations makes learning more accessible, especially for younger kids who may struggle with traditional textbooks or written explanations.

2. Encourages Curiosity and Questions

When kids watch science demonstrations, they are naturally curious and often ask questions about what they’re seeing. This curiosity fosters a love for learning and encourages children to think critically about the world around them. Science demonstrations inspire kids to ask "Why?" and "How?", which are fundamental questions that lead to further discovery and exploration.

3. Hands-On Learning

Many science demonstrations are interactive, allowing children to participate or conduct experiments themselves. This hands-on learning reinforces concepts, giving kids a deeper understanding of the science involved. By actively engaging with the demonstration, children are more likely to retain the information and develop a deeper appreciation for the subject matter.

4. Builds Confidence

Watching science demonstrations can inspire kids to conduct their own experiments at home or in the classroom. Seeing science in action helps build their confidence, showing them that science is fun and accessible. When kids realize they can experiment and solve problems on their own, it boosts their self-esteem and encourages a growth mindset.

Using Science Fundaments at Kids Science Labs with a touch of mad science experiments

Why many Kids Love mad science experiments so much?

Have you ever watched your child’s eyes light up while they mix colorful liquids in a plastic bowl or watch a fizzy reaction safely explode in front of them? If so, you’ve witnessed the magic of the type of mad science that kids love at places like Kids Science Labs! It's the kind of science that goes beyond textbooks and into the realm of hands-on, real-world experimentation. Several years ago, when Kids Science Labs was offering mad science style afterschool classes, parents remarked that kids aren’t just learning—they’re engaging in thrilling experiments that make science feel like an adventure. A transformative experience was born, when Kids Science Labs began offering these hands-on

But what is it about these mad science experiments that gets kids so excited? And why are they so beneficial for learning? Let’s dive into why kids love KSL and how it supports their growth in ways traditional learning can’t always match.

What Is It About Mad Science Experiments That Boosts Kids' Learning?

It’s simple: Kids Science Labs and similar programs that offer crazy and mad science experiments that are all about engagement, are the new thing this year. When children do something hands-on, they’re not just memorizing facts—they’re experiencing the concept firsthand. Imagine teaching a child about chemical reactions. You could explain it in a classroom, but there’s a special spark when they actually mix vinegar and baking soda to create a fizzy explosion themselves. That’s Kids Science Labs in action, especially with their ChemBusters Mad Science Labs available for Chicago Summer Camps or Summer Camps in Seattle.

What makes it even more exciting is that it’s not just about watching. Kids are encouraged to participate in every step of the process. They get to ask questions, make predictions, and see results unfold in real-time. This approach leads to better retention, a deeper understanding, and, most importantly, a love for learning. Experiments give children a chance to see the "why" and "how" behind the concepts they’re learning, making science come alive.

At some of the most mad science programs at Kids Science Labs, curiosity drives the learning process. Kids are often fascinated by the unknown and the ability to create unexpected outcomes. These hands-on activities tap into that natural curiosity, allowing them to experiment, fail, try again, and, ultimately, learn from experience.

How Did Kids Science Labs Improve on Mad Science After-School Classes to Accelerate Careers in Medicine and Engineering?

You may have heard of Kids Science Labs because of their slime birthday parties, chicago summer camps, or seattle fun things to do with kids? These specialized programs build upon the core principles of Mad Science and take them to the next level. Parents should know that Kids Science Labs differs from the franchise, Mad Science, which offers after-school programs, Kids Science Labs takes a more focused approach, encouraging kids not only to experiment but also to discover pathways to potential careers in STEM fields like medicine, engineering, and technology.

At Kids Science Labs, they don't just stop at fun experiments. The labs are designed to provide an immersive experience that helps children understand the real-world applications of science. For example, kids aren’t just learning how a balloon flies—they’re investigating the principles of air pressure, physics, and engineering. This deeper understanding sets the stage for careers in fields that are changing the world.

Kids Science Labs has refined its PowerScience program by integrating curriculum that aligns with current developments in STEM education. Again, it is not the same as “mad science”, which is based in Canada. KSL offers STEM programs for kids 12 months a year, alternating between birthday parties, field trips, summer camps for kids, and stem programs. From early exposure to complex concepts like vision & lights, or forces & motion, these programs make science feel accessible and relevant to kids. The approach helps foster skills that are critical for success in medicine and engineering, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration.

By focusing on hands-on learning, Kids Science Labs accelerates the path for kids interested in exploring these high-demand fields. Instead of just introducing concepts, the labs challenge children to think critically and apply what they’ve learned to real-world scenarios—building a strong foundation for future careers.

What Do Kids Do to Turn Fun Science Into Crazy Mad Science at Kids Science Labs?

At Kids Science Labs, science isn’t just something kids learn about—it’s something they do. The labs are a playground for curious minds, where kids can dive into a range of activities that make science feel like an adventure. From creating chemical reactions that bubble and fizz to building simple machines or even designing their own experiments, the focus is on engaging children in the process of discovery.

One of the best parts of Mad Science at Kids Science Labs is the sheer variety of activities kids can try. Some might design rockets that actually launch (talk about cool!), while others might delve into biology by creating slime or observing plant growth in different conditions. There are also themed labs that bring real-world science into the mix, like understanding the science behind popular video games or the physics of roller coasters.

Every experiment is designed to be interactive and hands-on, ensuring that kids don’t just follow directions—they also get to take ownership of their experiments. They’ll make observations, hypothesize outcomes, and sometimes even fail before succeeding. These kinds of experiences teach resilience, collaboration, and, most importantly, the joy of learning through trial and error.

What Are the Special Benefits About Early Childhood Learning That Includes Frequent Hands-On Science?

Early childhood is a time when young minds are soaking up information faster than ever. It’s the perfect time to introduce children to the wonders of science through hands-on experiments. But why is this so important?

First, hands-on science nurtures a child’s natural curiosity. Young children are naturally inquisitive, asking "why" and "how" about the world around them. Engaging with science experiments helps them learn how to ask questions, think critically, and develop problem-solving skills. They learn that making mistakes is part of the learning process, which builds resilience and confidence.

Second, Kids Science Labs and other hands-on science programs help develop fine motor skills, spatial awareness, and other cognitive abilities. For example, when children measure ingredients for an experiment or manipulate materials to build a structure, they are exercising their coordination and ability to follow sequences of steps. This kind of learning improves concentration, memory, and understanding of basic math and science principles.

Third, regular engagement with hands-on science helps foster a love of learning. When children see their efforts come to life through experiments, they begin to associate learning with fun, which motivates them to continue exploring and experimenting. These positive experiences in early childhood set the foundation for academic success later in life.

Finally, early exposure to science can spark an interest in STEM careers. By introducing kids to the practical applications of science at a young age, you help them connect their academic learning with real-world opportunities. This could mean a future career in medicine, engineering, or even space exploration—fields that are constantly looking for the next generation of brilliant minds.

At the end of the day, the interesting and mad science experiments that are conducted at Kids Science Labs are not just about creating cool explosions or colorful reactions (though those are definitely part of the fun). Instead, KSL is about sparking a lifelong curiosity in children and giving them the tools to explore the world around them. Through the real hands-on experiments, led by excited teachers, children gain valuable skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and resilience—skills that will benefit them throughout their academic journey and beyond.

Whether it’s the mad science in chicago, the wicked potions in Seattle Summer Camps, hands-on science labs at Kids Science Labs or a simple experiment at home, there’s no better time to introduce your child to the world of science than right now. The possibilities are endless, and the results can be truly magical. After all, when kids can turn science into crazy fun, it’s easy to see why they’ll keep coming back for more!