10 Low-Prep Science Experiments for Young Learners

Do you want fun, low-prep science experiments that are easy to set up? These simple experiments are just right for young learners who love to explore. I’ve put together 10 science experiments you can use right away. They’re great for older preschool, kindergarten, or early elementary classrooms. Each experiment uses common items that you probably already have in your classroom or home. These low-prep science experiments encourage children to watch, think, and have fun!

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Why You’ll Love These Low-Prep Experiments

These aren’t tricky or hard to follow. Each one is quick, simple, and fun for kids. You can use them in many ways—in centers, with a partner, or with the whole class.

• Use supplies you already have
• Take just 5 to 15 minutes
• Work in centers, small groups, or with the whole class
• Great for ages 3 to 7
• Get kids thinking and asking questions

What’s Inside the Free Download

The free download includes 10 low-prep science experiments that cover a variety of topics:

• Absorption Tests – What materials soak up water best?
• Engineering Challenges – Build boats, bridges, and towers
• Motion & Physics – Paper drop races, ramp races, and ball rolls
• Problem Solving – Use straws to move or build in creative ways

Each experiment includes setup tips and additional experiment suggestion to guide student thinking. For the teacher, there is a quick explanation of the science facts behind the activity.

Easy Experiments for Busy Classrooms

Whether you’re working with a large class or a small group, these activities are easy to adapt to different teaching styles and schedules.

• Use them as:
  • Early finisher tasks
  • Science center rotations
  • Partner challenges
  • Independent work
  • Whole class demos

The guide also highlights which experiments are best for each format and estimated timing to help you plan.

Help Your Students Document Their Discoveries

Want your students to write or draw what they saw? You can use these free recording pages. They’re simple and great for kids who are ready to share what they learn.

• Space for predictions and observations
• Drawing and writing options
• Flexibility for different skill levels

These pages are a perfect match for the experiments in the free download, and you can use them for future experiments.

Make Science Easy and Fun

These simple, low-prep science experiments help kids wonder, notice, and explore. That’s what early science is all about.

• Asking questions like “What do you notice?”
• Encouraging students to form their own ideas
• Using simple materials to spark big curiosity
• Making science joyful, not stressful

By allowing open-ended exploration, you give kids the freedom to think like real scientists.

Get Your Free Low-Prep Science Experiments

Want to bring more hands-on discovery into your classroom? Head to the resource library and download your free copy of 10 Low Prep Science Experiments for Kids. It’s the perfect way to build excitement around science—with no fancy supplies required.

Let your students explore, create, and discover—one simple experiment at a time!

Extend the Learning with More Free Resources

Once your students have tried the 10 low prep science experiments, keep the momentum going with these free printables from my Resource Library:

• Animal Habitat Booklet – Draw animal habitats
• Animals on a Boat – Sink or Float Lesson
• Magnify and Match– An observation activity

Each one supports hands-on discovery and is designed for preschool to early elementary students.