Science with Air

by Helen Edom and Moira Butterfield

Educational Development Corporation

This is part of the Usborne “Kid Kits” series and includes a paperback book of step-by-step experiments nicely packaged with an assortment of materials that can be used for the activities in the book (e.g., straws, “tornado tube,” feathers, clothespins). Some experiments require additional readily available items, such as newspaper or empty bottles.

Step-by-step, illustrated instructions should make it easy for kids to do experiments on their own. At the back of the book are two pages of notes for parents that will help answer questions that children might ask while carrying out the experiments. This kit is recommended for ages 6-9.

Other Kid Kits are available priced at $9.95 to $19.95, with titles such as Science with Magnets, Things that Fly, The Young Naturalist, and Rocks & Fossils. These might be used as part of topical unit studies or adjuncts to other science lessons, but they should also be great for those days when you need something quick and entertaining to make schooling more fun. (Reviewed by Valerie Thorpe)