Spotlight

We have teamed up with the ????????Parent Bloggers Network and the Discovery Channel Store on two prior occasions, reviewing Paz’s liftoff rocket and the game Rapelli. Both products were big hits in this house, and continue to be well-loved. Our newest collaboration is for the Solar Science Lab, a kit for children which explores different methods of harnessing the sun’s energy.

My girls, like many other children today, are very interested in saving energy and keeping the earth clean. Solar energy is a renewable resource, and one that doesn’t pollute the earth; it’s something the girls and their friends want to learn more about. My daughters also have a love of science, so the Solar Science Lab is a perfect fit for our family. Add in that the Solar Science Lab includes all the scientific equipment you will need

When introducing solar energy to children, the Solar Science Lab discusses different sources of energy – renewable and non-renewable. Within the context of solar energy, they differentiate between direct solar energy, such as what will be used for experiments in this lab, and indirect solar energy, which uses energy collected in plants through photosynthesis (ie: burning wood and converted into ethanol).

While the Solar Science Lab is aimed at kids 8+ and 3rd grade +, our homeschooling coop of kids ages 4-11 really enjoyed the activities! There is a great mix of very quick and easy experiments, as well as more involved experiments – from looking at how light changes through colored lenses to burning feathers. Some experiments require more set-up time and household items that aren’t included in the box, but many are easy to set up with just the contents.

I am really happy with the Solar Science Lab, and found this to be a great way of mixing science and ecological awareness, and in a way that is fun and engaging. The girls and I had so much fun with this kit, as did their friends. My only complaint is that some of the paper and cardboard pieces aren’t as sturdy as I would like for long-term use. This is balanced by there being a solar cell, thermometer, and other very sturdy pieces, however. If you’re looking for a fun and affordable way of introducing your kids to solar energy, this is a must-buy.

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