Preschool Science Experiments
I get asked all the time what science looks like at our house, especially during the preschool years. This post about Preschool Science Experiments shares the activities that actually worked for us and kept everyone curious.
When I first started searching for hands-on ideas, I wanted activities that were simple and used things we already had. That’s why I put together my list of Simple Homeschool Science Experiments for Kids. It became my go-to spot when I needed ideas without overthinking.
Below, I’m walking you through how I keep science approachable, what kinds of topics naturally come up, and my favorite activities to try at home. If you’re looking for easy ways to explore science with preschoolers.
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How to make learning about science fun for preschoolers
Science does not need to feel formal or complicated at this age. I focus on keeping things playful and open-ended, so curiosity leads the way. If you’re just getting started, I shared more tips in this post about how to begin teaching science at home.
- Let kids explore materials before explaining what will happen
- Ask simple questions and listen to their guesses
- Repeat activities on different days to notice changes
- Keep sessions short and stop while interest is high
Preschool Science Books Worth Grabbing
I always like to have a small stack of science-themed books nearby when we try experiments. Reading together helps connect new ideas to familiar stories and keeps interest going beyond the activity.
STEAM Play & Learn: 20 fun step-by-step preschool projects about science, technology, engineering, art, and math!Mudpies to Magnets: A Preschool Science CurriculumPreschool Hands-On STEAM Learning Fun Workbook (Highlights Learning Fun Workbooks)Busy Little Hands: Science Play!: Learning Activities for PreschoolersBig Chemistry Experiments for Little Kids: A First Science Book for KidsThe Berenstain Bears’ Big Book of Science and Nature (Dover Science For Kids)
Science topics to talk about with preschoolers
Conversations about science happen naturally when kids are allowed to wonder out loud. These are topics that often came up during our activities.
- Colors and mixing: how shades change when combined
- Weather patterns, noticing rain, clouds, and temperature
- Nature and animals observing plants, bugs, and habitats
- Cause and effect: what happens when something changes
Preschool science printable packs to support learning
Sometimes I like having printable materials ready for quieter moments. The science packs in my shop give kids a way to continue exploring themes through play and hands-on pages.
What can kids learn from these science activities?
Preschool science is about building basic skills through exploration. I’ve seen so much growth just by keeping things relaxed and engaging.
- Problem-solving through trial and error
- Observation by watching reactions and results
- Language development from describing what they see
- Patience while waiting for changes to happen
Supplies needed for preschool science activities
Having a small supply bin makes planning easier. These are items I reach for often.
- Food coloring
- Baking soda and vinegar
- Clear cups or jars
- Paper towels
- Plastic bags
- Measuring spoons
- Water
More science experiments to try
If you’re looking for additional ideas, there are always more simple experiments you can rotate in. Swapping activities keeps things fresh while still using familiar materials.
- Hovercraft Science Experiment
- How to Grow a Crystal
- Speed Racer STEM Activity
- Melting Rainbow Preschool Science Experiment by Darcy and Brian
- Butterfly Science Activities for Preschoolers by Homeschool Preschool
Wrapping science into our days never required complicated plans. These science projects gave us meaningful moments together and built confidence through exploration.