Kitchen Scientist — Does It Sink or Float?
Child conducts a simple kitchen experiment: testing whether different objects sink or float in water, and optionally what dissolves. The agent guides the parent to observe the child's ability to make predictions, observe carefully, draw conclusions from evidence, and use scientific vocabulary to describe results. Builds the foundations of scientific reasoning through hands-on inquiry.
Free to do together whenever you like.
What you'll need
Fill a large bowl or basin halfway with water. Gather 8-10 small objects with a mix of densities: coin, grape, cork/bottle cap, paper clip, apple, small toy, key, crayon, piece of aluminium foil, small stone. Set them on a towel next to the water. Have paper and pen ready for recording predictions. Towels nearby for splashes.
How it works
The 3-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneIdentifies shared category featuresMind· 2.8y–5y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneUses talk to organise, sequence and clarify thinking, ideas, feelings and events.Mind· 3.3y–5y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneExplains causesMind· 3.8y–4.6y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneTalks about own interests and ideasMind· 4y–5y· core· Step 1