The scientific method is a process that scientists use to answer questions of all types. In its most basic sense, the scientific method involves observation, hypothesis/prediction, experimentation and conclusion. Scientists often adapt the use of the scientific method based upon what is being studied or how the scientist might interpret the process itself.
At DuPage Children’s Museum (DCM), a myriad of scientists travel through our exhibit neighborhoods each day. With every splash of water, turn of a handle and stroke of a brush, children are observing, predicting, experimenting, coming to conclusions and repeating the process!
Conducting inquiry-based experiments at home can have a profound effect on a child’s acclimation to science. Experiments can be simple and easy to carry out – encouraging thinking and problem-solving that will enhance learning as children grow older. Try this chemistry experiment with children of all ages AND with items you may already have in your kitchen!
Exploding Milk
Materials needed: Whole milk; rectangular, shallow dish or plate; food coloring; cotton swab and dish soap.
Experiment: Pour milk into the shallow dish and place a different color of food coloring in each corner of the dish. Dip the cotton swab in the dish soap. Touch the middle of the milk dish with the soaped cotton swab end and watch the milk explode.
Encourage use of the scientific method! Ask children to predict what will happen when the soap is added. Collect data by making a drawing of your results. Draw conclusions – find out why the milk exploded. Most of all, enjoy encouraging your budding scientist!
