on Science Wizards in the Home

Martin Wiggum - "The Simpsons"

Occasionally a parent will ask me what they can do to help improve their child's performance at school, and I will usually tell them that a parent's enthusiasm for their child's school is a huge factor in educational success.  With some minor modifications you can try many of these Science Wizards at home.  Here are some ideas to help you: -

• Don't think that because you have a low budget or lack some equipment that you can't do many of these Science Wizards.  Often a cheap (free) alternative will work just as well.  Empty glass food jars make acceptable beakers (except for heating experiments).  Plastic film canisters can be used as vials.  Many simple chemicals can be obtained from supermarkets, pharmacies or hardware shops.  Having taught in small schools in China and Malaysia I have discovered that there really is a whole lot you can with not much, plus some imagination.

• Don't be discouraged from doing things because you don't completely understand the concepts demonstrated.  Sometimes it's just fun to do stuff with your kids, and you can work on the explanation later.  Maybe a teacher you know could help you if you feel you are out of your depth.

• Many of these ideas really are quite fun.  It is worth just trying them out for the fun of it with your kids, in the same way you might do some arts and crafts of a rainy Sunday.  Try printing one of the wizards out and working through it together.

• Do be aware that some of these ideas are potentially dangerous and should only be attempted by trained teachers in controlled lab situations.  The dangers of each are listed under the method.

• Some of these could be the basis for a science fair project with a bit of embellishment.