A magnifying glass is a must-have for any kid science kit. Some magnifying glasses can magnify an object by up to 10 times its size. However, most children's magnifying glasses use a shatter-proof glass that is only capable of magnifying objects 4-5 times. Hand-held lollipop magnifying glasses are the most popular kind, since they enable the viewer to keep a safe distance from the object of study. Lollipop magnifying glasses made especially for kids are made with a rubber handle for easy grip.
A microscope is essential to any science laboratory. Microscopes are used by medical personnel, botanists, biologists and many other professionals. You can introduce children to this essential piece of equipment with a children's microscope that is simple and safe for kids to handle. Children's microscopes use shatter-proof glass. Many of them come with pre-made slides that contain samples of hair, leaves, insects and other objects of study.
Magnets are a fun and inexpensive gadget for kids to play with and learn about the concept of electrically charged particles and magnetic fields. Kids can use magnets with other objects around the house to see which items attract to them and which repel them. This activity will help to illustrate the concept of magnetic poles (or opposites). Poles are the magnetic fields that attract opposite fields and repel similar fields.
Beakers and graduated cylinders are essentially glassware for the chemistry lab. Beakers are used to mark general measurements for liquids, while graduated cylinders are used to take more accurate measurements. Science glassware made for kids is usually made from plastic or shatter-proof glass.