What this site is
The site collects simple experiments and observation projects for children from about 3 to 12. Each activity uses household materials, has its adult steps marked, and explains in plain words what is happening. The aim is to help children practice the habits of science: asking questions, making predictions, testing fairly and recording what they see.
Hour of Science is not a school, museum, tutoring service or curriculum provider, and it is not connected with any organization or program that uses a similar name. We don't sell kits, recommend brands or run ads.
How activities are chosen
- Every material should be easy to find in an ordinary home.
- Nothing uses cleaning products, medicines, flames or strong chemicals.
- Steps involving heat, sharp tools or balloons are marked for an adult.
- The explanation of what is happening should be correct at a level a child can follow.
- Each activity has a "go further" step so older children can turn it into a fair test.
Why an hour
An hour is long enough to ask a question, run a test twice and write down what happened, and short enough to fit into a weekend morning or a school holiday afternoon. It is a guide, not a rule. Younger children may be finished in fifteen minutes, and a curious ten-year-old may want to keep going all day. The home page shows one way to split the time.
How the explanations are written
Each "what's happening" note gives the main idea behind an activity in a sentence or two, using words a child can follow with help. Science is often more detailed than a short note can show, so we keep to the main idea and leave out claims we can't stand behind. If your child wants to go deeper, a public library is a good next stop.
The limits
We describe each activity as clearly as we can, but every home and every child is different. Read the steps first, decide whether an activity suits your child, and stay with them. The safety rules apply to every activity here. For health concerns, speak to a doctor or your local poison center.
Teachers and group leaders
Many of these activities also work in a classroom or club. Check your school or organization's own safety policies first, as they may set extra rules for groups of children.
Contact
If you spot a mistake or have a question about an activity, write to contact@hourofscience.com.