The National Geographic Science Magic Kit is a great way to introduce children to the world of science and magic. This kit comes with detailed instructions for performing eight different magic tricks that are all based on scientific principles. The main idea of these instructions is to guide children through the process of setting up and performing each trick, while also teaching them about the scientific concepts behind each trick. One of the tricks included in the kit is the "Floating Wand" trick, which uses magnets to create the illusion of a wand floating in mid-air. The instructions explain how to attach a magnet to the wand and use another magnet hidden in your hand to control its movement. The main idea here is to demonstrate the principles of magnetism and how like poles repel each other.
National Geographic STEM Kits to Boost Learning at Home
School is back online for many children around the country, and as kids are finding out – it’s not all that exciting. Kids often learn best by doing hands on projects especially when it comes to developing concepts around physics, chemistry and biology.
I brought two amazing National Geographic STEM kits (National Geographic Mega Science Series Earth Science & National Geographic Science Magic Kit) and the National Geographic Air Rocket to show my 8 year old helper and eager learner. He had just finished a day of online learning and honestly he had looked a little deflated. When I pulled out the boxes, his face lit up and ran to the table to get started.
We examined experiments and activities from both Science kits and decided upon an experiment from each to perform. Grandma has decided that she would save a new experiments to do each day to supplement science learning – and some of these experiments may be done more than once to help reinforce learning.
The first experiment we did from the National Geographic Science Magic Kit was to make a Magic Water Bubble. Honestly, it was hard to just pick ONE experiment to start with from the Science Magic Kit because of how fun National Geographic has presented each task. Who doesn’t want to do science magic? In this kit, girls and boys will make a coin float, change the color of water, have snow magically appear, and much more!
As I read the instructions, my tester followed suit. He poured out the ‘magic sand or Hydrophobic Sand onto a plate and made a well with his finger. He then took the pipet and started to slowly add water to the mini-canyon. Right off the bat, there was learning. We discussed what the magic sand really was – Hydro meaning water, and Phobic meaning fear. So, would the water sink in? No! The sand is scared of water, so the water rested on top of the slightly oily sand. We then discussed concepts as he grew his magic water bubble in size. I asked him what happened to water if he dumped in onto the beach, and he knew it soaked in and disappeared quickly.
I asked him what would happen if an oil tanker sailed by and spilled oil onto the sand. He excitedly said that the water would not soak in as well! The concept of oil and water not mixing is simple, but can be applied to so many concepts in our daily life and environment. Also – bonus: He had never used a pipet before. Learning that you had to ‘release’ pressure from the squeeze pipet to ‘fill’ it was also a new concept!
I’m already obsessed with the Science Magic Kit, but we decided to move on so he could save experiments over the next couple of weeks to keep the ‘fun’ STEM learning going!
Next we opened the National Geographic Mega Science Series Earth Science which is chock full of 15 different activities! Activities include dueling water tornadoes, building an erupting volcano, growing a crystal, two geologic dig kits, and more.
We decided on doing a geologic dig as Ronan absolutely LOVES dinosaurs and many gems and minerals were formed by volcanic actitivy. Dinosaur extinction lines up closely with timing of volcanic eruptions, so we figured this was the perfect activity to start with! Also, he was told to carefully pick away at a GOLD block to find his hidden gems. As a dinosaur fossil lover, we discussed the importance of being careful when doing the dig and to gently sweep away debris, versus hacking it out. There is a guidebook that describes minerals and gems that come with the kit, and a starter rock collection.
I also observed that this is yet again another great activity to improve fine motor skills – and patience! Ronan’s little sister Lucy watched on and also participated in the discussion and wanted a crack at digging out those sweet gems. Although these activities are recommended for 8 and up, children are NEVER too young to learn about scientific concepts and she too was equally engaged!
Finally we went outside to play with the National Geographic Air Rocket The concept is to stomp the extra large foot pump to launch air rockets high into the air. Both Ronan and Lucy took turns and quickly learned about trajectory! The launcher may be angled, so they could angle the rockets into the pool, towards the yard and I begged them not to put them on the roof! Hah!
They also learned that the rockets path was relative to the force given with a hearty foot stomp. This is a great outdoor activity that allows kids to blow off a lot of steam in a constructive, fun way. Kids can set up targets and try to ‘air rocket’ by guessing trajectory.
I’m so impressed with all three kits as they make science truly FUN and tangible. If you’re a parent concerned about your kids (ages 8-12) being engaged in science this year, check out these fun kits on Amazon. They will need your help on some activities, especially if they are on the younger side, but most activites only need a little guidance and it’s fun to watch kids follow the sequence in magical science experiments.
Thanks to National Geographic & Blue Marble Toys for sending kits to review and learn from.
They are all available on Amazon here:
- National Geographic Mega Science Series Earth Science
- National Geographic Science Magic Kit
- National Geographic Air Rocket
Toy Review: National Geographic Science Magic Kit
Imagine your child amazing their friends by turning a clear liquid red by combining it with a purple liquid. Well, that is exactly the type of spectacular surprises offered in the National Geographic Science Magic Kit.
The scientific realities of acid reaction vs. alkaline reaction are at the foundation of this color changing magic. Other magic acts are based within a substance's unique ability to retain surprising amounts of liquid or repel fluids. The National Geographic Science Magic Kit adapts these chemical properties and interactions as tools to entertain with magic.
We found the instructions easy to follow and, aside from water, a paperclip and a small amount of dish soap, all other items needed for the kit’s experiments can be found in ample amounts. They even provide enough to let you practice a time or two before putting on a performance. My 11-year-old son and I enjoyed exploring these chemical principles. I suspect he is towards the upper edge of this kit’s target age group, but he thoroughly enjoyed showing off the tricks to his dad and a few of the neighborhood kids.
Among the scientific principles taught or demonstrated:
- Basic scientific techniques like observation, measurement, safety
- pH reaction of acid v. alkaline
- Carbon dioxide reaction
- Absorbent chemical properties
Not only does the kit ignite scientific exploration of how substances interact with each other but it also branched into deepening language knowledge by exposing users to Greek roots. Hydrophobic sand plays a key role in a couple of the kit’s experiments and the included instruction booklet introduces readers to the word’s Greek origins – Hydro (water) and Phobic (fear) along with its opposite of hydrophilic with Philic (love).
Water beads up on the hydrophobic sand
For about $15 for the Starter Kit (described here) or $35 for the Mega Kit, the National Geographic Science Magic Kit is excellent way to introduce young scientists to new concepts and fun and magical way.
Rebekah MoseleyRebekah grew up frequently going to Disneyland and met her husband there as annual passholders. Together they co-founded LaughingPlace.com to share their love and fun experiencing all things Disney with other fans. Rebekah's favorite Disney princess is Cinderella and if she could snap her fingers and be anywhere within the created Disney worlds, it's Typhoon Lagoon's lazy river which she considers Imagineering perfection.
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Science Magic KitScience Kit For Kids
We don't know when or if this item will be back in stock.
Add to a list- EVEN THE EXPERIMENT GUIDE IS AWESOME! Our one-of-a-kind experiment guide has illustrated, kid-friendly instructions as well as insight into the science that creates the magic, techniques used by real scientists, and loads of fascinating facts.
- BONUS EXPERIMENTS - Because we know your kids will want to conduct even more science experiments after their magic show, we include a bonus experiment guide with 30 additional experiments that can all be done with common household items.
- SHOW OFF FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY - Each experiment is specially designed to be performed as a magic trick! The included magic wand and white gloves let your children dress the part, too. Magic for kids has never been this fun and educational.
- MAGIC SCIENCE YOUR KIDS WILL LOVE! These 20 science experiments are mind-blowing! Girls and boys will bend metal with water, create a vanishing test tube, make a coin float, and much more! You won't find experiments like these anywhere else.
- HIGH-QUALITY EDUCATIONAL TOYS - National Geographic is proud to make the highest quality hands-on science toys, and all our products are backed by exceptional service.
The National Geographic Mega Science Series Science Magic Kit is one of the most complete and amazing science kits you'll find, anywhere! This Kit Includes: - Aerogel - Hydrophobic Sand - Vegetable Oil - Instant Snow Powder - Red Cabbage Powder - Citric Acid - Sodium Bicarbonate - 1 Test Tube - 1 Beaker - 1 Pipette - 1 Nitinol Paper Clip - 1 Pair of Tweezers - 3 Copper Coins - 3 Clear Cups - 3 Paper Cups - 2 Sponges - 3 Cotton Balls - 4 Sheets of pH Indicator Paper - 1 Spray Bottle - 1 Colorless Crayon - 1 Pair of Cotton Gloves - 1 Magic Wand - 12 Pipe Cleaners - 1 Experiment Guide - 1 Book of 30 Bonus Experiments This massive magic science kit has everything you need to conduct 20 experiments that also double as magic tricks! We provide enough materials for you to practice your experiments once or twice before you put on a truly spectacular magic show for your friends and family! Experiments include bending metal with water, making a test tube disappear, changing the color of water, creating a square bubble, cleaning up an oil spill, and many, many more! This is the perfect gift for girls and boys that love science and those that are amazed by magic
It's the best of both worlds! Our detailed experiment guide features illustrated, kid-friendly instructions for each experiment, along with fascinating facts and insight into the science at work. Your kids will learn so much about chemistry and physics they'll practically be experts! And the fun doesn't stop there. We also include a bonus experiment guide with 30 easy-to-perform science experiments using common household items! National Geographic Toys is proud to provide only the highest quality products.
National Geographic Science Magic Kit
What happens when science meets magic? Find out with the National Geographic Science Magic Kit. With hands-on experiments that double as impressive magic tricks, it is an innovative kit designed to inspire young minds. Ideal for children and teenagers who love science or magic, this kit blends education and entertainment.
This science kit provides a fun, interactive adventure that’s hands-on and away from screens. Designed for hands-on learning and fun, it includes all the materials needed to perform 20 amazing experiments that double as magic tricks.
The main idea here is to demonstrate the principles of magnetism and how like poles repel each other. Another trick is the "Magic Waterproof Sand" trick, which involves coating sand with a special substance that makes it repel water. The main idea behind this trick is to teach children about hydrophobic materials and the concept of surface tension.
Product Overview: More Than Just a Magic Show
The National Geographic Science Magic Kit is not just another toy. It’s an educational experience. Packed with 20 extraordinary experiments, kids will find themselves bending metal with water, creating vanishing test tubes, and making coins float. But it doesn’t stop at spectacle, each experiment delves into the science behind the magic, offering insightful facts and explanations.
This high-quality kit includes all the materials and components needed, along with detailed instructions. Bonus experiments are also included for kids who can’t get enough of scientific exploration. Whether it’s for the classroom or a family get-together, the magic kit is sure to captivate its audience while teaching valuable knowledge at the same time.
The instructions explain how to properly apply the substance to the sand and demonstrate how water droplets will roll right off the coated sand. Each trick in the kit is designed to be easy to set up and perform, with step-by-step instructions and clear illustrations to guide children through the process. The main idea of these instructions is to provide a fun and interactive way for children to learn about scientific principles and concepts. By combining the excitement of magic with the wonder of science, the National Geographic Science Magic Kit offers a unique and engaging learning experience for children of all ages..
Reviews for "Enhancing your skills: Mastering advanced tricks with the National Geographic science magic kit instructions"
1. John - 1 star
The National Geographic Science Magic Kit instructions were incredibly confusing and difficult to follow. The diagrams were small and unclear, making it almost impossible to understand what I was supposed to do. Additionally, some of the steps were out of order, leading to even more confusion. I ended up giving up on the kit altogether and was extremely disappointed in the overall experience. I would not recommend this kit to anyone who is looking for clear and straightforward instructions.
2. Sarah - 2 stars
I was really excited to try the National Geographic Science Magic Kit, but unfortunately, the instructions were a major letdown. The steps were not well-explained and left out important details, making it difficult to recreate the magical experiments. I had to do a lot of guesswork and trial and error, which took away from the fun and educational aspect of the kit. Overall, I was disappointed with the lack of clarity in the instructions and would not purchase this product again.
3. Mark - 2 stars
The National Geographic Science Magic Kit had potential, but the instructions were subpar. They were poorly written and lacked important explanations. As someone without prior knowledge in science experiments, I found it difficult to complete the experiments as intended. It's a shame because the kit itself had interesting components, but without proper instructions, it was frustrating and confusing. I would suggest National Geographic improves the instructions to make it more accessible to beginners.
4. Emily - 1 star
The National Geographic Science Magic Kit instructions were a complete mess. The illustrations were vague and did not provide clear guidance on how to perform the experiments. Many of the steps were confusingly written and left me feeling frustrated and unsatisfied. It is disheartening to spend money on a kit that promises educational and intriguing experiments, only to end up confused and disappointed. I would not recommend this kit to anyone who values clear and concise instructions.