This easy science experiment for kids teaches them what plants need to survive. It’s an engaging experiment that lasts several days.
A couple of years ago, I was given a book about preparing your child for kindergarten. JT was just about to go to kindergarten, and I wanted to make sure her was prepared. There were a lot of fun activities to do in the book that we enjoyed, and JT learned a lot. I’m sharing my family’s favorite activity from that book. This is an easy science experiment for kids that teaches them what plants need to survive. This will last several days, so make sure you’re willing to put in the time.
If you are looking for more activities you can do with your kids, follow me on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tomorrowisamotherday/
What This Plant Experiment Teaches
This easy science experiment teaches young children what a plant needs to survive. They need water, sun, soil, and fresh air. This experiment will take several days to finish. You can have your child do as much or as little of this experiment as you want. My kids loved watering the plants and checking in to see how the plants were doing.
For older children, you can explain photosynthesis and talk through how the sun helps a plant grow.
What You’ll Need
- 3 paper or plastic cups
- a pencil
- potting soil
- 9 green beans seeds
- a tray or plate
How the Experiment Works
- Poke a tiny hole in the bottom of each cup.
- Let your child fill each cup with potting soil to about half-inch from the top of the cup.
- Show your child how to plant the seed by having them use their finger to poke three holes in each cup. Then place one seed in each hole and cover it with soil.
- Put the cups on the tray or plate and water the soil until it is damp. Place the plate or tray in a sunny window or area.
- Help your child water the plant every day until the seeds start to sprout.
- Once the plant is growing well in each cup, number the cups 1, 2, and 3.
- Plant 1 will be left where it is and continue to water every day. Talk with your child about how this plant is getting water, sun, and fresh air.
- Plant 2 will be left where it is but stop watering this plant. Tell your child that this plant isn’t getting water anymore.
- Put plant 3 in a dark place, such as a kitchen cabinet or a closet. Have your child water this plant a little bit every day. Ask your child to tell you what this plant isn’t getting. It’s not getting fresh air and sunlight.
- Stop experiment once the other plants die. You can plant the green beans in your garden, if you want.
Some questions you can ask your child as the experiment goes on:
- “What is happening to each plant?”
- “Which plant seems to be doing the best?”
- “What does a plant need for healthy growing?”
More Kids Activities
- Father’s Day Activity for Kids
- Family Summer Bucket List (+ FREE Printable For Your Family)
- Butterfly Craft For Kids: A Great Spring Activity
- Dandelion Lion Craft: A Fun and Easy Outdoor Craft
Final Thoughts
This easy science experiment is perfect for teaching children the basic concepts of biology and what plants need to survive. This is a great experiment to do during spring and early summer. I hope you enjoy this activity and that your children learn something while doing it. If you have any questions about this easy science experiment, let me know in the comments below. I love hearing from you.
Lastly, if you think this experiment rocks, share it or pin it for later. I appreciate all the love and support!
Thanks for reading,
Kel
