Safe Science Crafts for Children by Ashley Hardway

Instead of throwing out that scratched up DVD or music CD, children can turn it into a hovercraft with nothing more than a balloon, dish detergent cap and a hot glue gun. After fastening the larger opening of the dish detergent cap to the hole in the center of the CD or DVD with the glue gun, attach a filled balloon to the other end. The small aperture for the dish detergent cap allows for a slower decompression of the balloon allowing the DVD to hover above the ground and not fly off into the air. Forcing air in this manner causes a levitation effect as the air spreads across the surface under the DVD. Heavier objects would need a greater force of air. Please note: you may want to help your children with the hot glue gun to fasten the detergent cap to the CD or DVD. Here is a video if you want to see how it’s done. This YouTube channel also contains other experiments you can try.

These examples can be altered in a number of ways to make them more engaging for your needs. When it comes to scientific discovery, it’s all about experimenting with different components to create a unique outcome. You can open the doors to a world of science for your children and help them discover the universe for what it truly is. Many more safe and interesting experiments can be found with some clever searching on the Internet.
Always curious, Ashley Hardway is constantly learning and passionate about sharing what she learns with others. Based in Houston, Texas, she loves to help families grow stronger, help their environments and communities, and keep moving forward! Check out @NannyLady on Twitter to connect and find out more.