We, at Kings Tutors, fully understand that parents may be struggling with this lockdown to find new, fun, and educational ways of keeping their children occupied. That’s why we have compiled a list of exciting and interesting science experiments which each display a fascinating and mesmerising scientific principle. Have a go at some of the ideas below and remember to let us know which one is your favourite!

1. Pencils through a plastic bag

This is a fascinating experiment which displays the properties of the polymer which constitutes the plastic bag. All you need is a plastic bag, a bunch of pencils, and water! Firstly, fill the plastic bag with water until almost full. Then, hold the bag by the top and simply begin poking pencils through the bag. Poke quickly and confidently, being sure to push them all the way through. Then take a look at the bag: if you’ve done everything right, there shouldn’t be a drop of water leaking! To learn about the science behind this fascinating experiment, click on the link in the title to find out more.

1. Hard-boiled Egg in a bottle

We all know that a peeled hard-boiled egg can’t fit into a narrow bottle cap without squashing into a horrible mess. Or do we…? Try this experiment out with your children and find out for yourself! Firstly, safely light a small piece of paper and drop that into an empty glass bottle. Whilst the paper is still burning, place the hard-boiled egg on top of the bottle. If all goes to plan, the cooling temperature caused by the fire running out of oxygen should contract the air, sucking the egg into the bottle without damaging it. .

1. Balloon-powered car! 

This is a perfect experiment for any young fan of engineering, and is ideal for those who love Lego. All you need is a few household items: cocktail sticks, 4 identical bottle caps, an empty water bottle, a straw, an elastic band, and a balloon. Compile the parts as in the picture to the right, then simply blow through the balloon to fire the car away! 

1. Bottle tornado

This is a particularly exciting one to watch for young children, as it demonstrates water working in a mesmerising way! What you’ll need is an empty clear plastic bottle, some washing up liquid, a little glitter and water. All you need to do is fill the bottle to three quarters full of water, add some washing up liquid, sprinkle in the glitter, and screw the lid back on. Then turn the bottle upside down and quickly spin the bottle in a circular motion. You should then be able to see a tornado form in the water! 

Do give these experiments a go, and be sure to let us know how you get on! Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our team if you would like any more at-home science tips, or to organise some additional STEM help for your children.