Science Toys

When I was a child, two of my favorite toys were a Chemistry Set and a basic microscope. My sister and I spent hours happily occupied, working out simple experiments in test tubes, or looking at sugar or yarn under the microscope. We even tried to make slides of various human body cells like skin or blood. This natural learning that follows interest in a subject makes learning effortless and so enjoyable. Delight directed learning is what I aim for when teaching elementary science to my children.

There are so many options for learning with hands on science. I have a whole page devoted to Science Kits from eBay that, in most cases, offer good prices.

Elenco Snap Circuits – I love these new toys that offer an education in the process of a lot of fun.
Estes Model Rocket Kits – I remember my first Estes Model Rocket was one of the few hands on science projects that our whole class participated in for eighth grade Physical Science. Needless to say, it was the highlight of the year for that class.

Make your own homeschool science memories by making and launching rockets. We took our kids to Furman University ball field so we would have plenty of room for launch. The boys loved it, as I knew they would.
Insect Lore – There are so many ways to include nature study in homeschool.

Our children regularly brought home critters or insects that we kept temporarily for observation and delight. We had a book called Pets in a Jar that gave us information  on how to care for a multitude of creatures.

 

Thames Kosmos Science Kits

Educational Toys

(and science kits above)

Bachmann Trains
Bob the Builder
Breyer Model Horses
Calico Critters
Carrera Slot Cars
GeoSafari
Kidkraft Play Kitchens
Learning Toys
Lincoln Logs
Lionel Model Trains
Melissa and Doug Toys
Playmobil Toys
Rokenbok
Safari Toy Figures
Schleich Toy Figures
Thomas Tank Engine