Mini Scientists: 5 Fall Science Experiments to Do at Home
Fall is a season brimming with vibrant colors, changing weather, and countless opportunities to explore the wonders of nature. It’s also the perfect time to introduce your preschooler to the world of science through fun, hands-on experiments that will ignite their curiosity and help them learn through play. Whether it's watching leaves change colors or observing how pumpkins float, these simple science experiments are designed to engage young minds and bring learning to life in the comfort of your home.
1. Leaf Color Change Experiment
Materials:
Green leaves
Rubbing alcohol
Glass jar
Coffee filter
Spoon or wooden stick
Bowl of hot water
Experiment:
Ever wonder why leaves change colors in the fall? This experiment allows your child to see the pigments hiding in green leaves. Start by collecting a few green leaves with your preschooler. Tear the leaves into small pieces and place them in the glass jar. Add enough rubbing alcohol to cover the leaves, then stir the mixture. Place the jar in a bowl of hot water for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. After the color from the leaves dissolves into the alcohol, place a strip of coffee filter into the jar. As the liquid travels up the filter, it will separate the different pigments, revealing the hidden colors of fall!
Why It Works:
This experiment teaches kids about chlorophyll and how leaves lose their green pigment as they prepare for winter, revealing reds, yellows, and oranges.
2. Pumpkin Float or Sink Experiment
Materials:
Small pumpkin
Large container of water
Experiment:
Gather a small pumpkin and ask your preschooler, "Do you think it will sink or float?" Fill a large container with water and gently place the pumpkin inside to see what happens. Try other objects like apples, acorns, or leaves and ask your child to guess whether each will float or sink.
Why It Works:
This experiment introduces the concept of buoyancy and density in a fun, hands-on way. Your child will learn that despite pumpkins being heavy, they float because they are mostly hollow inside.
3. Dancing Corn Kernels
Materials:
Unpopped corn kernels
Baking soda
Vinegar
Clear jar
Water
Experiment:
Fill a clear jar with water and stir in a few tablespoons of baking soda. Drop in a handful of unpopped corn kernels. Next, add some vinegar and watch as the corn kernels "dance" to the surface before sinking again.
Why It Works:
This experiment shows how chemical reactions create gas (carbon dioxide) that makes the corn rise. As the gas escapes, the corn sinks again. It's a fun way to teach preschoolers about gas production and chemical reactions.
4. Apple Erosion Experiment
Materials:
2 apples
1 lemon
Small bowl
Knife (adult use)
Experiment:
Cut one apple in half and leave it exposed to the air. Cut the second apple in half and rub lemon juice over the cut surface. Leave both apples out for a few hours and observe which one turns brown faster.
Why It Works:
This simple experiment introduces the concept of oxidation and how certain substances (like lemon juice) can slow down the process. It also helps preschoolers understand how air reacts with fruit, making it turn brown.
5. Pinecone Weather Predictor
Materials:
Pinecones
Water
Experiment:
Collect a few pinecones with your preschooler. Keep some dry and place others in a bowl of water. Observe how the pinecones react over time. Ask your child what they notice—is there a difference between the wet and dry pinecones?
Why It Works:
This experiment teaches kids how pinecones open and close depending on moisture levels. It’s a great way to introduce the concept of weather patterns and how nature responds to changes in the environment.
Create Learning Moments Every Day
With just a few simple materials, you can turn everyday moments into meaningful learning experiences. Whether you're investigating the changing colors of leaves or testing whether a pumpkin will sink or float, these activities will make your child feel like a mini scientist and help you connect in fun, educational ways.
Bring Science and Fun Together with the Preschool Success Plan
Looking for more ways to integrate fun and learning into your child’s routine? The Preschool Success Plan is full of simple ideas and activities designed to help you create engaging learning moments for your little one. Download your free Preschool Success Plan today and start bringing science, discovery, and fun into every day!
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