Tina Robertson

How Do Mollusks Breathe | Easy Pipe Cleaner Snail Craft

December 14, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

We’re learning how do mollusks breathe and making a fun snail craft.

Mollusks are one of the largest groups of animals.

For example, they include octopus, snails, clams, and squid.

And they are soft bodied creatures. Because they do not have a backbone, they are called invertebrates.

How Do Mollusks Breathe | Easy Pipe Cleaner Snail Craft

In addition mollusks can be divided into 3 main groups.

They are Gastropoda (snails and slugs), Bivalvia (clams, oysters, and mussels), and Cephalopoda (octopuses, squids, and cuttlefish).

Gastropods make up the largest group of mollusks.

SNAIL BOOKS FOR KIDS

Next, look at some of these books about snails.

We love to read living books when we can find them.

6 Books About Snails

Add some of these books to your home library or to your unit study for the day.

Matisse's Magical Trail

A young snail's artistic trail inspires a whole class of children to be creative too!

"Brilliant illustrations and a short text invite an unnamed sleeping, pajama-clad child into a garden teeming with wildlife. The boy gradually shrinks until he is so small he experiences things as a snail would. The incredibly detailed drawings and the idea of shrinking to enter another world should capture children's imaginations

Escargot

Escargot is an adorable French snail who only wants two things: 1) To be your favorite animal, and 2) To eat the delicious salad at the end of this book. Except this delicious salad has a carrot in it. And Escargot hates carrots. But when he finally tries one―with a little help from you!―he realizes that it’s not so bad after all.

The Snail House

Here is the story Grandma tells one evening on her wide veranda steps. It has Michael and Hannah and the disappearing baby in it, a tigerish bird, raindrops like sacks of water, and the hugest apple you ever saw. Oh yes . . . and the Snail House. So gather round, climb up now into Grandma’s lap. Darkness is falling, the air is still, and the story is just about to begin.

Snail in the woods (A Nature I can read book)

A snail's life from the time it is hatched to the time it lays its own eggs.

The Biggest House in the World

A young snail dreams of having the biggest house—or shell—in the world. Then one day, his wise father tells him the story of another snail with the same dream. He grew and grew, adding bright colors and beautiful designs, until he found that his house came at a terrible cost. The young snail decides that a small, easy-to-carry shell might be best for a life of adventure and exploration.

Also, look at these facts about how do mollusks breathe.

HOW DO MOLLUSKS BREATHE

Most mollusks live in water. For instance, clams, oysters, and snails use gills.

However, land snails breathe through a lung-like organ called a “pallial cavity,” which works kind of like our lungs.

The majority of mollusks live in marine environments.

Additionally, two groups, the bivalves and the gastropods, contain freshwater species.

And only the gastropods have animals that live on land (snails and slugs).

For breathing, the gills or lung-like organ is located inside their bodies.

Water or air flows through an opening in their body called the mantle cavity.

So mollusks have different ways of breathing depending on where they live.

Look at more activities about mollusks.

MORE ACTIVITIES TO GO WITH HOW DO MOLLUSKS BREATHE

Finally, look at how to make this adorable pipe cleaner snail.

HOW TO MAKE A PIPE CLEANER SNAIL WITH KIDS

First, look at this short list of supplies.

Colorful pipe cleaners
Googly eyes
Craft glue
Round object (pen or marker or sharpie)

Step 1:

Select 3 pipe cleaners, 2 of the same color and 1 different color.

Step 2:

Take that one pipe cleaner and a round object such as a pen or a sharpie.

Step 3:

Coil the pipe cleaner around the round object firmly and evenly.

Step 4:

Coil the entire pipe cleaner.

Step 5:

Take out the coiled pipe cleaner carefully.

Step 6:

Now, place the 2 other pipe cleaners adjacent to each other.

Step 7:

Insert both pipe cleaners through the coil and draw out about 1.5” of their length from the other end of the coiled pipe cleaner.

Step 8:

Bend that 1.5” to 90 degrees.

Step 9:

Twist the longer sides of the pipe cleaners evenly.

Step 10:

Start by making a small coil at the open end of the longer end.

Step 11:

Continue to coil the twisted pipe cleaners.

Step 12:

Coil and bring them near the 90-degree bent part.

Step 13:

Bent the open ends of the 1.5” sides by a cm. Select 2 googly eyes.

Step 14:

Use craft glue to join the googly eyes to the bent parts. Allow the glue to dry.

Facts About Japan | How To Make Kids Easy Origami Fish

December 13, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today we’re making kids easy origami fish. Also, look at more fun ideas on my page Medieval Japan Unit Study and Lapbook 1185 – 1600 A.D.

Origami is the art of folding paper. It’s about using your creativity, imagination, and hands.

And with the most minimal of supplies, you can craft and create fun objects like frogs, boats, flowers, cranes and even jumping frogs.

It’s not clear of the exact origins of origami but it has a long history.

The Chinese invented paper but origami can be traced back to ancient Japan.

Facts About Japan | How To Make Kids Easy Origami Fish

For instance, it’s thought during the Edo period people of all ages enjoyed the art of paper folding.

Eventually paper became more affordable and was available to everyone.

Further, the Japanese word “origami” comes from two words: “ori” meaning fold, and “kami” meaning paper.

So origami became much more than a hobby, it’s part of Japanese culture.

BOOKS ABOUT JAPAN FOR KIDS

First, look at some of these books if you’re learning about ancient Japan.

We prefer to read living books when I can find them.

11 Books and Resources for Studying About Japan

You'll love these resources and books for studying about Japan. Add them to my Medieval Japan Unit Study or just fun for the day.

Samurai: An Illustrated History

This Japanese history book traces the story of a unique historical phenomenon: a period of 700 years--equivalent to the entire stretch of Western history between the reigns of the Crusader king Richard the Lionhearted and of Queen Victoria at the height of the British Empire--during which an enclosed civilization was dominated by a single warrior caste.

The historical narrative of samurai history is supported by explanations of samurai armor, weapons, fortifications, tactics, and customs, and illustrated with nearly 800 fascinating color photographs, maps, and sketches, including ancient scroll paintings and surviving suits of armor preserved for centuries in Japanese shrines.

Samurai Arms, Armour & the Tactics of Warfare

Part of the acclaimed Book of Samurai series, which presents for the first time the translated scrolls of the historical Natori-Ry samurai school of war, this volume offers an exceptional insight into the weaponry and armour of the samurai era, as well as tactical advice for use on and off the battlefield.

Life in Old Japan Coloring Book

More than 40 handsome, ready-to-color illustrations depict samurai warriors, the imperial villa at Kyoto, a Shinto shrine, a tea ceremony, a Noh play, a typical city street, a restaurant, music makers, more. Introduction and detailed captions describe Japanese culture and provide detailed information on art, government, costume, and daily life.

Japanese Picture Dictionary Coloring Book: Over 1500 Japanese Words and Phrases for Creative & Visual Learners of All Ages

Learning a new language is a new way of meeting new people, opening doors in your professional career and attracting fresh opportunities when traveling around the world, as you may know. The great thing is - whether you want to learn Japanese to visit Japan’s precious historic landmarks, watch anime and movies or simply meet wonderful Japanese people - we’ve got you covered!

All About Japan: Stories, Songs, Crafts and Games for Kids

A cultural adventure for kids, All About Japan offers a journey to a new place--and ways to bring it to life! Dive into stories, play some games from Japan, and learn some Japanese songs.

The Inch-High Samurai

The brave little boy who sailed to the Capital in a teacup and fought a demon with a needle to win the love of a Lady is a Japanese cousin to Tom Thumb.

The Crane Girl

In this magical retelling of a Japanese folktale, a mysterious girl weaves silk to help repay the kindness of a boy and his father until the father's greed finally exposes her secret.

While gathering firewood, Yasuhiro comes upon an injured crane hidden in the snow. He rescues and comforts the bird, then watches as it flies away over the wintry hills.

The next night, a mysterious young girl arrives at Yasuhiro's home seeking shelter from the cold. The boy and his father welcome the girl, named Hiroko, to stay with them. When Hiroko notices that Yasuhiro's father is struggling to earn money, she offers to weave silk for him to sell. After the fabric fetches a good price, the boy's father becomes impatient for more silk, and his greed has a life-changing effect on them all.

Lyrical storytelling deftly interwoven with original haiku create a magical adaptation of a popular Japanese folktale--an inspirational story of friendship and the power of kindness to transform lives.

Commodore Perry the Opening of Japan (Landmark Series, #56)

For more than 200 years Japan had isolated herself from the world - now Commodore Perry, representing the US government had arrived on the shore of Japan. Perry's mission was to open a door into Japan so US ships might stop for fuel & water on their route to China.

3D Puzzle Wooden Craft Kits DIY Model Building Kit

This 3D wooden Puzzle is the oldest tower in Japan and one of the iconic buildings, ancient and elegant.

Japan Tokyo Skyline Famous Architecture Model Block Set

The iconic landmark you love,Build this detailed Japan skyline model!Features an elaborate façade with Tokyo Tower,Tokyo SKYTREE, Mount Fuji,Sensoji Temple,Osaka Castle and more.

Japanese Flower Pavilion Cherry Blossom Bonsai Tree Bricks Kit

Japan Sakura Tree House Building Set consists of 1810pcs + mini-blocks. It includes detailed step-by-step color instructions, and exquisite details of various sizes and color componentsand.

Also, look at a few facts about Japan.

FACTS ABOUT JAPAN

Emperor Jimmu was the legendary first emperor of Japan.
Samurai were Japan’s warriors and followed the code of Bushido.
Traditional Japanese homes are called minka.
There are three writing systems. These three systems are called hiragana, katakana and kanji. Ancient Japan used mostly kanji which are symbols representing ideas.
Ninjas were secret spies and assassins who were skilled in stealth and trickery and hired mostly by hired mostly by daimyōs.
In ancient Japan, the people practiced Shinto. Shinto is one of the oldest religions in Japan.
Japanese medieval society was divided into classes.
The ancient tea ceremony was done with care and respect and is an ancient ceremony where they gathered to drink powdered green tea or match.

Next, add a few more hands-on Japan activities to your day.

MORE MEDIEVAL JAPAN ACTIVITIES

Perfect for Ancient Japan studies or modern times, this Simple Homemade Sushi: Hands on Japan Activity for Kids is a great way to bond and learn at the same time.
Ancient Japan for Kids: Fun and Simple Handwriting Activity
How to make an origami crane
Feudal System In Japan: How To Make A Colorful Fan Craft
Fun Flowering Cherry Tree Activity.

Finally, look at how to make this fun origami fish.

HOW TO MAKE AN ORIGAMI FISH

First, look at this short list of easy supplies.

Colored craft papers
Pencil
A pair of scissors
Craft glue
Googly eyes

Step 1

Prepare a square paper (of any color of your choice). We’re using a 4” x 4” piece of orange paper.

Step 2:

Fold the paper in half, vertically and horizontally; and then unfold both.

Step 3:

Turn the paper to the other side.

Step 4:

Now, make diagonal half-folds along both sides. Unfold both folds.

Step 5:

Push the vertical and horizontal folds inwards and make mountain folds along the diagonal creases.

Step 6:

Flatten the paper along the creases. This is called a square base.

It has 2 open sides and 2 closed sides. Place it on a flat surface with its closed corner towards the top.

Step 7:

Fold in the right closed side along the middle crease.

Step 8:

Fold in the left closed side along the middle crease.

Step 9:

Turn the pattern to the other side and similarly, fold that side.

Step 10:

Open any one side/ flap (let’s start with the left side) of the current pattern.

Step 11:

Open the side from its top-open end.

Step 12:

Draw it to the opposite side (as far as it can be folded flat).

Step 13:

Flatten in neatly.

Step 14:

Similarly, fold and flatten the right side.

These 2 are the fins of the origami fish.

Step 15:

Cut out a small square shape for the tail fin.

Fold the square shape in half to form a triangle.

Step 16:

Attach the triangle paper to the back end of the origami fish to complete the fish pattern.

Step 17:

Attach a googly eye to the head part to complete the origami fish craft.

Electricity Hands-On Homeschool Science Activity

December 12, 2024 | 4 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a fun electricity hands-on science activity. We’re making a low voltage circuit. Also, look at my post 4 Weeks Free Physical Science Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas.

We have been getting all science-y around here because Tiny has been loving the book Air Is Not Oxygen: Essential Science You Should Have Learned … But Probably Didn’t.

We have been reviewing it, but I accepted it because it is chock-full of easy hands-on science for all ages.

Electricity Hands-On Homeschool Science Activity

Did I mention it is a quick read and for adults too?

As I got some of my organization projects done this past month (where did the month go), Tiny has been reading Air Is Not Oxygen: Essential Science You Should Have Learned … But Probably Didn’t and planning the easy hand-on activities he wanted to try.

Next, look at some of these books about electricity.

BOOKS ABOUT ELECTRICITY FOR KIDS

I prefer living books when I can find them.

5 Electricity Books for Kids Who Love to Read and Be Read To

Learning about electricity is a fascinating subject for kids to learn about. Add one or two of these books to your home library.

Electronics for Kids: Play with Simple Circuits and Experiment with Electricity!

Why do the lights in a house turn on when you flip a switch? How does a remote-controlled car move? And what makes lights on TVs and microwaves blink? The technology around you may seem like magic, but most of it wouldn’t run without electricity. Electronics for Kids demystifies electricity with a collection of awesome hands-on projects.
In Part 1, you’ll learn how current, voltage, and circuits work by making a battery out of a lemon, turning a metal bolt into an electromagnet, and transforming a paper cup and some magnets into a spinning motor. In Part 2, you’ll make even more cool stuff as you:–Solder a blinking LED circuit with resistors, capacitors, and relays–Turn a circuit into a touch sensor using your finger as a resistor–Build an alarm clock triggered by the sunrise.

Switch On, Switch Off (Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2)

Read and find out about electricity in this colorfully illustrated nonfiction picture book.

It seems like magic! It's not—it's electricity. But how does a light actually work? In this clear and simple book learn all about electricity, how it's produced, and how it can be used.

At the end you'll learn how to conduct safe, fun experiments that will let you generate electricity yourself!

Electrical Circuit Experiment Kit White

Size: Battery case: ( L X W X H): 57 x 30 x 13 / 2.24 x 1.18 x 0.51inch.
Material: The mini bulb is a kind of tungsten wire bulb, made of glass, metal, insulation materials.
Application: Used for electrical experiments in primary and middle schools/home DIY circuit test.

Oscar and the Bird: A Book about Electricity (Start with Science)

Start with Science books introduce kids to core science concepts through engaging stories, fresh illustrations, and supplemental activities. When Oscar the kitten finds a tractor in a field and accidentally turns on the windshield wipers, he is full of questions about electricity. Luckily, Bird knows the answers! With the help of his friend, Oscar finds out how electricity is made and stored, which machines need electricity to work, and why we always need to be careful around wires, batteries, plugs, and sockets. Back matter includes an index and supplemental activities.

Nikola Tesla, Electrical Genius

Electrical engineer and inventor Nikola Tesla (1856–1943) was indeed an electrical genius. In language suitable for both young and old, author Arthur J. Beckhard describes all aspects of Tesla’s personal and professional life, including Tesla’s childhood and his education at primary school, at the Higher Real Gymnasium, and at the Polytechnic Institute; his years working for the telegraphic engineering department of Austria, then as an engineer in Paris, and then as an employee of Thomas Edison in America; his substitution of alternating current for direct current—a simpler and more economical method of converting electrical into mechanical energy; his rotary magnetic field, which was used in transmitting the power of Niagara Falls to nearby cities; his independent research at his own electrical laboratories in New Your City; and much more. Originally published in 1959 as part of Messner Publications' "Men of Science" series.

First, Tiny read about the different forms of electricity.

I thought there was just one kind, the kind that comes from the outlet. (you know I run from science).

Anyway, thank goodness the kid knows more than his mother.

But then again, this book has been making it easy for me him to learn about the different forms of electricity.

MORE ELECTRICITY HANDS-ON ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

Look at what he did today that he thought was pretty cool and look at how what we used as we changed this activity a bit to make a low voltage circuit:

Electricity Hands-On Science Activity

Rayovac 6 volt batter from a lantern (because Dad had it). The original activity called for a simple D cell battery.
1 red alligator clip
1 black alligator clip
red side light from a trailer (because its way cooler than a tiny flashlight bulb, which the original activity called for. The trailer light was cheaper too)
bread tie (connected as a ground wire to light)

This is pretty easy with a fun wow factor. First, take the bread tie and wrap it around the metal part of the light fixture to make a ground wife.

This wasn’t on the original activity but it made for a bit more ingenuity for Tiny.

Then, Tiny hooked the black alligator clip wire to the negative side of the battery and then hook the red alligator wire to the positive side of the battery.

Then connect them to the wire feeding the light bulb. Easy peazy and I can do this.

It’s better to do than to just read about this quick and easy activity that really any kid or adult can do to understand what is a circuit.

When it comes to science, me and Tiny are all hands-on instead of worksheet. A little bit of thrill goes a long way with us.

I have another activity or two coming on this book that we are lapping up!

10 Winter Slime Ideas And How To Make Marshmallow Slime

December 11, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today I have some fun winter slime ideas and a fun recipe for making marshmallow slime. Be sure you grab more ideas and a free lapbook for winter fun on my page Winter Season Unit Study.

Marshmallow slime is a fun sensory experience.

Unlike other slime recipes which offer a stretchy experience, this is a unique slime that is a fluffy and soft experience.

10 Winter Slime Ideas And How To Make Marshmallow Slime

And with just a few key ingredients you normally have on hand during winter, you can make for a fun leaning day.

Add this activity to your science day or to my winter unit study.

What’s more is that this marshmallow slime can be enjoyed by all ages.

The way the marshmallow squishes and kneads through your fingers makes it so addictive and enticing.

It’s sure to keep kids entertained for a while.

MORE WINTER SLIME IDEAS

Next, add a few more activities to your winter day.

10 Winter Slime Ideas

Whether you’re looking to entertain kids through the long cold days of winter or are wanting to enjoy the winter season, grab these ideas.

How to Make Gingerbread Slime For Play | 9 Slime Craft Ideas

In honor of National Slime Day December 7th, I have 9 food-themed slime craft ideas as well as my recipe for gingerbread slime. Also, look at this cocoa slime at my post 3 Fun Cocoa Winter Hands on Science Activities.

Photo Credit: blissfuldomestication.com

Winter Slime Recipe and How to Host a Slime Station!

Kid’s love slime, and my children are no exception. They love the tactile nature of it, and it can provide hours of entertainment. We have made very basic slime before, but for this project I was looking for a simple Winter Slime recipe that could be replicated on a large scale. I also wanted to allow the children at the fair to personalise their slime and watch the magic as it turns from a bowl of liquid to the squidgy slime we all know and love.

Winter Craft Ideas for Kids Animals in Winter Fun Snow Slime

If you’re looking for more winter craft ideas for kids, you’ll love this snow slime inspired by the book Animals in Winter. Be sure you grab more ideas for winter fun on my page winter season unit study.

How to Craft Cinnamon Slime and 8 Cool Slime Ideas

I have some cool slime ideas. And there are amazing benefits of playing with what otherwise seems like just a fun activity. But there is more to slime than just the mess and thrill of sensory play.

Fascinating Insect Incredible Slime: A Kids’ Guide To Nature’s Goo

Learn what insects do in the winter and make this fun insect slime.

Photo Credit: kimspireddiy.com

DIY Candy Cane Slime – How To Make Homemade Fluffy Peppermint Candy Cane Slime

SLIME Lovers & CANDY CANE Lovers – here is an AMAZING slime recipe you are going to love. This fun DIY candy cane slime is super fun and fluffy.

The Colorful Blue Jays Winter Food | Make Fun Seed Slime

We’re making a fun stretchy batch of seed slime as we learn all about the colorful blue jay and his winter food. Also, look at my Free Bird Unit Study and Lapbook And Fun Edible Bird Nests.

How To Mix Glow In The Dark Slime Ingredients To Make Awesome Ocean Slime

Wintertime is a great time to study about the ocean.

Add this fun slime activity to your day.

Photo Credit: www.messforless.net

How to Make Snow Slime

But the slime I am going to share today is a winner. If you have been wondering How to Make Snow Slime or Cloud Slime as some call it, wonder no more. It is easy once you add a secret ingredient that will totally transform traditional slime.

3 Fun Cocoa Winter Hands on Science Activities

Your kids will love doing three different cocoa winter hands-on science activities to go with my winter season unit study.

Additionally, sensory play is an important part of a child learning.

SENSORY PLAY BENEFITS

Sensory playing teaches many things.

For instance, it helps children organize information.

When a child uses one of the five senses: sight, touch, smell, hearing and taste it nurtures exploration.

Basically, instead of telling, we’re encouraging children to explore and investigate.

Furthermore, sensory play builds fine motor activities.

Children are strengthening their fine motor activities while having fun.

And when you discuss with your child what he feels, sees, hears, smells or tastes his language development is boosted.

Finally, look at how to make this fun marshmallow slime.

HOW TO MAKE MARSHMALLOW SLIME

First, look at this easy list of supplies.

5 jumbo marshmallows
1 Tbsp coconut oil
5 Tbsp cornstarch
Microwave-safe bowl
Measuring spoons
Spoon or spatula

First, in a microwave-safe bowl add marshmallows and coconut oil.

Add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch at a time until the marshmallow slime is no longer sticky

Microwave for 45 seconds.

Stir to combine the melted marshmallows and oil.

Have fun!

Too, look at these suggestions if you don’t have some of these ingredients.

The recipe can be made with 10 regular-size marshmallows.
You can make it edible by replacing the cornstarch with powdered sugar. However, this mixture does tend to stay sticky.
Cooking oil can be used instead of coconut oil in this recipe.
One-time use. Discard it after playing with this slime.

How to Make a Homemade Electrical Switch

December 10, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

We are learning how to make a homemade electrical switch to get a better idea of how electricity works on a small scale. Also, look at my post 4 Weeks Free Physical Science Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas.

This activity is incredibly easy.

We’re creating a simple electric circuit and label each part using a kit that includes everything you need but first let’s learn about electricity.

How to Make a Homemade Electrical Switch

Electricity is like a river of energy that flows through wires, and it brings light, warmth, air conditioning, music, and power in general to our homes.

It’s the invisible force that makes our computers hum, our lights shine, and our refrigerators keep our food cold.

But have you ever wondered where this amazing energy comes from, how it works, and why it’s so important to be safe around it?

Let’s explore the fascinating world of electricity.

Electricity is a form of energy that comes from the movement of tiny particles called electrons.

These electrons are like super-fast race cars zooming around inside atoms, the building blocks of everything around us.

When these electrons get excited and start moving in the same direction, they create an electric current, like a river of energy flowing through a wire.

This current can then be used to power all sorts of things, from tiny light bulbs to giant machines.

WAYS TO GENERATE ELECTRICITY

Electricity can be generated in many ways, using a variety of energy sources. Some of the most common ways are:

Power Plants: These are like giant factories that use different sources of energy, like coal, natural gas, or nuclear power, to create steam.

This steam spins huge turbines, which are connected to generators that produce electricity.

Renewable Energy Sources: These are sources of energy that are naturally replenished, like the sun, wind, and water.

Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, wind turbines use the wind to spin generators, and hydroelectric dams use the force of flowing water to generate electricity.

Batteries: These are like portable power plants that store chemical energy that can be converted into electricity. Batteries are used in all sorts of devices, from flashlights to electric cars.

Once electricity is generated, it travels through a vast network of wires called the power grid. This grid is like a giant highway system for electricity, carrying it from power plants to homes, schools, and businesses.

The electricity travels at incredibly high speeds, reaching our homes almost instantly when we flip a switch.

When electricity reaches our homes, it flows through wires in the walls and ceilings to outlets and switches.

When we plug in a device or flip a switch, we complete a circuit, allowing the electricity to flow through the device and power it.

BOOKS FOR KIDS ABOUT ELECTRICITY

Next, look at these books about electricity.

I prefer to read living books when we can find them.

5 Electricity Books for Kids Who Love to Read and Be Read To

Learning about electricity is a fascinating subject for kids to learn about. Add one or two of these books to your home library.

Electronics for Kids: Play with Simple Circuits and Experiment with Electricity!

Switch On, Switch Off (Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2)

Read and find out about electricity in this colorfully illustrated nonfiction picture book.

It seems like magic! It's not—it's electricity. But how does a light actually work? In this clear and simple book learn all about electricity, how it's produced, and how it can be used.

At the end you'll learn how to conduct safe, fun experiments that will let you generate electricity yourself!

Electrical Circuit Experiment Kit White

Size: Battery case: ( L X W X H): 57 x 30 x 13 / 2.24 x 1.18 x 0.51inch.
Material: The mini bulb is a kind of tungsten wire bulb, made of glass, metal, insulation materials.
Application: Used for electrical experiments in primary and middle schools/home DIY circuit test.

Oscar and the Bird: A Book about Electricity (Start with Science)

Nikola Tesla, Electrical Genius

Also, look at these facts about electricity.

5 FUN FACTS ABOUT ELECTRICITY

The first person to coin the word “electricity” was William Gilbert in 1600.
Lightning is a natural form of electricity, and a single bolt of lightning can carry up to one billion volts of electricity.
The human body is a good conductor of electricity.
The electric eel can generate up to 600 volts of electricity.
The average American uses about 10,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity per year.

And look at more activities to go with our how to make a homemade electrical switch.

ELECTRICAL EXPERIMENTS TO EXPAND HOW TO MAKE A HOMEMADE ELECTRICAL SWITCH

Another fun way to explore electricity, currents, switches, and more is with a Snap Circuits kit.

A simple circuit needs at least 3 things- a circuit pathway (wires), a power source (battery) and load (lightbulb), a switch is also helpful to turn it on and off.

HOW TO MAKE A HOMEMADE ELECTRICAL SWITCH

You will need:

Electrical Circuit Experiment Kit
Hot glue gun/glue sticks
Cardboard or scrap board-optional

First, starting with a kit like this makes it easy but still gives kids a ground up learning experience.

Plus, as they learn to connect each piece and problem solve if something isn’t working right.

To begin with you want to make sure that the end of each wire is exposed, use wire strippers or carefully remove the coating with a knife.

Wrap the end of the exposed wire coming from the battery pack onto one contact point on the switch.

Attach the other wire on the battery pack by wrapping it around a contact point on the lamp holder.

Take a loose piece of wire and run it from the other contact point on the lamp holder to the other open contact on the switch.

Add batteries to the battery pack and flip the switch.

Now if you want you can mount the setup onto a piece of cardboard or wood by attaching the battery pack with a bit of hot glue on one end.

Tack the switch to the side.

Now to add a new layer of learning you can create labels on cardstock.

Have your child place them in the correct spot for each part of the simple circuit.