|
Written by Suzanne Mallery
|
|
Monday, 23 November 2009 22:52 |
|
Several of the parents have asked Science Granny to recommend science-related gifts for their kids for Christmas. We're happy to provide plenty of suggestions and will be putting together some ideas over the next week. Some of these items are things we've tested out at home or in the classroom, some are items the kids have specifically requested, and others are just things we would want if we were science kids in the 21st century! We will be adding items over the next few weeks, so stay tuned. |
|
Last Updated ( Monday, 23 November 2009 23:06 )
|
|
|
Gifts that are classroom favorites |
 |
 |
 |
|
Written by Suzanne Mallery
|
|
Wednesday, 09 December 2009 14:18 |
|
 This is the famous "loupe" you may have heard your kids talk about. We use this to take a close up look at natural specimens like owl pellets, bones, leaves, and rocks in the classroom. The kids love these and they make excellent stocking stuffers.
  The kids have been watching this DVD in class and listening to the songs. They love the songs they've heard and may ask for this CD/DVD set. One caution about this gift: there are two songs in this set that may be objectionable to families who oppose evolution. These songs are "Science is Real" and "My Brother the Ape." We don't use either song in school. |
|
Last Updated ( Wednesday, 09 December 2009 15:01 )
|
|
Written by Suzanne Mallery
|
|
Wednesday, 25 November 2009 19:58 |
|
In this category we're including robots, invention software, and electronics. All are things that kids get to build or design themselves. 
     Crazy Machines is a computer game that requires the player to invent contraptions to complete tasks. We've included all three versions here, because the version that will be best for your family is the one that runs best on your computer. These games require a lot of computing power and a good graphic card, so it's worth checking out the requirements before you buy. Science Granny's granddaughter Cait has had Crazy Machines v 1 for several years and loves it.
 Kids put together this robot (it can be made as a climbing or a walking robot, and changing from one to the other is fairly simple). Although it's described as a gift for ages 10-13, with help younger kids can put it together too. Science Granny's granddaughter Cait built it with her dad when she was 7.
 Snap Circuits is an easy introduction to electronics. Diagrams show kids how to snap together the parts to make a variety of electronic devices including a doorbell, a flying saucer, a light with a photocell, a happy birthday song player, etc. This kit is the 100 version. There are a variety of versions of this kit, with increased projects at each level. Fortunately, the company that makes this toy also sells upgrade kits, so if your kid loves it and runs out of projects you can order an upgrade with additional parts and diagrams for more projects. The parts are easy to work with and each project can be completed in a relatively short time (5-10 minutes), so kids see success immediately.
|
|
Last Updated ( Wednesday, 25 November 2009 20:23 )
|
|
|
Books of experiments to do at home |
|
|
|
|
Written by Suzanne Mallery
|
|
Wednesday, 25 November 2009 20:32 |
|
  Exploratopia is one of our favorite books. It's filled with experiments developed at the world-famous Exploratorium science museum in San Francisco. There's something in here for everyone, and the book is beautifully illustrated. This book is the successor to the famous "Science Snacks" series of books, and includes some of the original snacks. Many of the old Science Snacks can be found on the Exploratorium's website, but this book is full of new ones. If your child is begging to do experiments at home, this is the book for you.
 This book is formatted like a picture book with simple photos and descriptions of experiments that can be done at home with household items. The experiments are good for all elementary aged kids, but older kids may feel insulted by the "picture book" format, and may prefer Exploratopia. |
|
Last Updated ( Thursday, 26 November 2009 17:30 )
|
|
Nature and animal-related gifts |
|
|
|
|
Written by Suzanne Mallery
|
|
Wednesday, 25 November 2009 10:44 |
|
  This book is filled with interesting facts about owls and owl pellets, and includes one sterilized owl pellet for dissection at home. A nice addition to this book is a loupe or magnifying glass (see below for loupes)  This ant farm has great visibility, since the gel is clear. Note that the ants don't come shipped with the kit. There's a coupon in the box to send away for them.
 The classic butterfly habitat. Again, note that you will need to send in a coupon from the kit to get the butterfly larvae.
 This backyard naturalist kit contains everything your child needs to start observing the wildlife in his or her backyard or around the neighborhood.
|
|
Last Updated ( Wednesday, 25 November 2009 19:40 )
|
|
|
<< Start < Prev 1 2 Next > End >>
|
|
Page 2 of 2 |
