Safe Science Experiments

Make Your Own Paper

Learn about recycling and how paper is made by making your own decorative paper. This science experiment/craft project involves non-toxic materials and has a relatively low mess factor.

Mentos and Diet Soda Fountain

The mentos and soda fountain, on the other hand, is a project with a high mess factor. Have kids try this one outdoors. It works with regular or diet soda, but clean-up is much easier and less sticky if you use diet soda.

Invisible Ink

Any of several safe household substances can be used to make invisible ink. Some of the inks are revealed by other chemicals while others require heat to reveal them. The safest heat source for heat-revealed inks is a light bulb. This project is best for kids age 8 and older.

Alum Crystals

This science experiment uses hot tap water and a kitchen space to grow crystals overnight. The crystals are non-toxic, but they aren't good to eat. This is one where adult supervision should be used for very young children since there is hot water involved. Older kids should be fine on their own.

Baking Soda Volcano

A chemical volcano made using baking soda and vinegar is a classic science experiment, appropriate for kids of all ages. You can make the cone of the volcano or can cause the lava to erupt from a bottle.

Lava Lamp Experiment

Experiment with density, gases, and color. This rechargeable 'lava lamp' uses non-toxic household ingredients to create colored globules that rise and fall in a bottle of liquid.

Slime Experiments

There are many recipes for slime, ranging from the kitchen ingredient variety to chemistry-lab slime. One of the best types of slime, at least in terms of gooey elasticity, is made from a combination of borax and school glue. This type of slime is best for experimenters who won't eat their slime. The younger crowd can make cornstarch or flour-based slime.

Water Fireworks

Experiment with color and miscibility by making water fireworks. These "fireworks" don't involve any fire. They simply resemble fireworks, if fireworks were underwater. This is a fun experiment involving oil, water and food coloring that is simple enough for anyone to do and produces interesting results.

Ice Cream Experiment

Experiment with freezing point using salt and ice to lower the temperature of the ingredients to make your tasty treat. This is a safe experiment that you can eat!

Milk Color Wheel Experiment

Experiment with detergents and learn about emulsifiers. This experiment uses milk, food coloring, and dishwashing detergent to make a swirling wheel of color. In addition to learning about chemistry, it gives you a chance to play with color (and your food).

This content is provided in partnership with National 4-H Council. 4-H science programs provide youth the opportunity to learn about STEM through fun, hands-on activities, ​and projects. Learn more by visiting their website.