Preschool is a wonderful age to introduce children to the world of science. By engaging in simple and fun experiments and activities, preschoolers can develop their curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Here are 12 science experiments and activities that are not only educational but also exciting for preschoolers.

1. Floating or Sinking: Fill a basin with water and gather various objects such as a pencil, block, and toy. Have your preschooler predict which objects will float and which will sink. Then, test their predictions and discuss the results.

2. Volcano Eruption: Create a classic volcano experiment by making a model volcano using playdough or clay. Fill it with baking soda and pour vinegar into the volcano to create a foamy eruption. This activity teaches children about chemical reactions.

3. Rainbow Walking Water: Fill three clear cups with water and add food coloring to each cup, making red, blue, and yellow water. Place an empty cup between the colored cups. Fold paper towels into strips and place one end in the colored water and the other end in the empty cup. Watch as the colors mix and create a walking rainbow.

4. Magnetic Exploration: Gather various objects made of different materials and provide a magnet. Have your preschooler sort the objects into two groups: magnetic and non-magnetic. Encourage them to explore why some objects are attracted to the magnet while others are not.

5. Sink or Float Sensory Bin: Fill a sensory bin with water and provide various objects for preschoolers to explore. Let them observe and determine whether each item sinks or floats. This activity engages their senses and promotes scientific observation.

6. Shadow Shapes: On a sunny day, take your preschooler outside and provide them with different objects. Have them place the objects on a piece of paper and trace the shadow it creates. Discuss how the shape of the shadow resembles the shape of the object.

7. Ice Excavation: Freeze small toys or objects in water using ice trays or containers. Provide your preschooler with tools such as spoons and pipettes to excavate the objects from the ice. This activity teaches them about the properties of water and freezing.

8. Baking Soda and Vinegar Reaction: Create a fizzing reaction by combining baking soda and vinegar in a container. Let your preschooler observe the reaction and discuss how the two substances interact. You can also add food coloring to make it more visually appealing.

9. Nature Scavenger Hunt: Take your preschooler on a nature walk and provide them with a checklist of items to find, such as leaves, rocks, flowers, or bugs. This activity encourages them to explore and observe the natural world around them.

10. Oobleck: Mix cornstarch and water to create a non-Newtonian fluid called Oobleck. Let your preschooler play with it and discuss its unique properties. They will be fascinated by its ability to be both a solid and a liquid.

11. Sun Prints: Gather objects with interesting shapes, such as leaves, flowers, or small toys. Place them on dark construction paper and leave them out in the sun for a few hours. When you remove the objects, your preschooler will see the shapes have been imprinted on the paper, thanks to the sun’s UV rays.

12. Rainbow in a Jar: Fill a clear jar with different liquids of varying densities, such as honey, dish soap, water, vegetable oil, and rubbing alcohol. Your preschooler will be amazed to see the different layers of liquid form a colorful rainbow.

These simple and fun preschool science experiments and activities will ignite your child’s curiosity and foster a love for learning. Remember to supervise and participate in these experiments with your preschooler to enhance their experience and ensure their safety. Enjoy the exciting world of science together!