The 7 Best Classroom Science Kits for Schools (2023 Rankings)

When it comes to teaching science in the classroom, interactive learning is key. Engaging students in science is crucial for their academic growth, and classroom science kits serve the purpose rightfully.

We understand how challenging it can be for teachers to make learning exciting for their students, especially in subjects like science.

That’s why we have compiled a list of the best classroom science kits to help teachers overcome this challenge and narrow down their options. 

Science classroom kits can range from simple experiments to complex lab activities, and they can be tailored to fit the needs of different classrooms.

The kits also come with a variety of supplies and materials, usually containing everything your students will need to complete the experiments.

You can find kits for biology, chemistry, physics, and other science topics that cover everything from microorganisms to energy.

The kits are designed in a way that they make learning accessible while also being fun and engaging for the students.

Not only do these kits provide an excellent resource for teachers to use in their classrooms, but they also provide students with a hands-on experience that encourages them to think critically and develop analytical skills.

We’ve reviewed and ranked the best science kits for schools based on a number of key factors, including overall quality, educational value, supplemental resources included, cost, and more.

Let’s get started…

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost for you, we might get a commission if you click the link and purchase.

 

1. Best Overall: KiwiCo

If you’ve been searching for an innovative yet effective way to infuse engaging learning into the classroom, KiwiCo’s classroom project kits are the perfect solution.

KiwiCo provides diverse classroom packs spanning science and engineering to art and design. Each pack is thoughtfully curated and includes all the necessary materials and instructions to start.

What sets KiwiCo’s classroom packs apart is its commitment to delivering top-notch educational content that is enjoyable and challenging for students. The interactive and thought-provoking activities encourage students to think critically and creatively as they complete each project.

Inquiry-based learning is encouraged with all KiwiCo projects. Rather than simply providing students with instructions, the kits encourage them to ask questions, make predictions, and conduct experiments to test their hypotheses. Students develop problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of scientific concepts by engaging in this inquiry process.

The KiwiCo classroom science kits also incorporate real-world examples and scenarios, making the learning experience relevant and engaging for students.

For teachers’ ease, a Teacher Guide is also included to ensure a seamless teaching process and an ability to keep a track record of students’ progress via worksheets and discussion questions.

Popular classroom kits include their Drawbot project where kids can build moving robots, the Automaton kit which lets students engineer a self-operating machine, and the Mechanical Claw kit which involves building a jointed claw designed to mimic the biomechanics of a human hand.

Some important things to point out about these school science kits:

• Perfect for grades 3-5
• Most kits serve up to 40 students working in pairs or small groups
• Projects and related activities are designed to take 1.5-3 hours and can be completed over multiple class periods
• Every kit includes a Teacher Guide with lesson plans, worksheets, and discussion questions
• Online resources, including videos and digital downloads, are available to take lessons further

By incorporating KiwiCo’s classroom packs into your lesson plans, you can provide your students with a fun and engaging learning experience that they’ll remember for years to come.

Click here to see KiwiCo’s classroom science kits.

 

2. Smithsonian Mega Science Lab Kit

The Smithsonian Mega Science Lab Kit is the perfect way to introduce children to the wonders of science. This impressive kit includes over 20 scientific activities and experiments, allowing kids to explore a range of scientific concepts hands-on and engagingly.

This school science kit has enough materials to conduct the experiments, including test tubes, beakers, safety goggles, and more. The experiments are designed to be easy to follow, with step-by-step instructions and clear explanations of the explored scientific concepts.

Kids will love exploring the properties of matter with experiments like creating their bouncy balls, making gooey slime, and even creating a lava lamp. They can also learn about the principles of energy and motion by building their catapult and conducting experiments with static electricity.

The Smithsonian Mega Science Lab Kit is a great way to get kids excited about science and spark their curiosity about the world around them. It’s perfect for home use, as well as for classrooms and science clubs. Whether your student is already interested in science or you’re looking for a fun and educational way to introduce them to the subject, this kit is an excellent choice.

 

3. Professor Maxwell’s VR Universe

Professor Maxwell’s Universe Interactive Learning Globe is an excellent addition to any science classroom. With its engaging 3D animations and augmented reality experiences, this globe is a great way to introduce kids to the universe and the wonders of space.

The interactive learning globe is designed to be easy to use and requires no technical setup, making it a convenient addition to any classroom. The globe’s companion app also provides additional educational content and interactive experiences, making it an excellent tool for engaging students and supplementing classroom lessons.

In addition to astronomy, the globe can also be used to teach kids about geography and world cultures, making it a versatile tool for a range of classroom activities. The globe’s detailed maps and flags of every country are a way for students to learn about different parts of the world and the people who live there.

With its engaging content and interactive features, this globe will inspire students’ love for science and geography and make learning a fun and engaging experience. So, consider adding this globe to your science classroom and watch your students’ knowledge and fascination with the world grow!

 

4. Water Rocket Kit

The 4M Water Rocket Kit is a fascinating and thrilling science kit for children that combines education and entertainment in a fun and unique way. This amazing kit allows kids to learn about rocket science and engineering while building and launching their very own water rocket. With this kit, children can discover the mechanics of how rockets work and how different components affect their performance.

This kit encourages creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. The kit has the relevant components, including a water rocket pump, fins, and a nozzle, making it easy for kids to assemble their rockets. They can follow the step-by-step instructions in the kit to construct their rocket or experiment with their designs to see how they affect the rocket’s flight.

One of the greatest features of this kit is its ability to teach children about scientific concepts such as air pressure, water pressure, and thrust. By adjusting the amount of water and pressure used to launch the rocket, kids can experiment with its height and distance, encouraging them to think scientifically and analyze their results. It makes the 4M Water Rocket Kit an ideal tool for science classes, science clubs, and at-home play.

The 4M Water Rocket Kit is suitable for children aged 14 and up, but younger children can also enjoy building and launching their rockets with adult supervision. It’s a perfect activity for both indoor and outdoor play, and the resulting water rocket will surely provide hours of fun and excitement. Who knows, perhaps some children who use this kit will be inspired to pursue a career in rocket science, and you could be watching them graduate in the future.

 

5. Crime Scene Forensic Science Kit

The Crime Scene Forensic Science Kit is an excellent resource for teachers looking to engage their students in the fascinating world of forensic science. This kit is designed to be used in the classroom, providing teachers with an exciting and interactive way to teach critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork.

The Crime Scene Forensic Science Kit includes all the tools needed to conduct a successful crime scene investigation, such as fingerprint powder, a magnifying glass, a crime scene tape, and much more. It comes with detailed instructions and a handbook to guide students through their investigations, making it easy for teachers to incorporate this activity into their lesson plans.

The kit promotes collaboration and teamwork, allowing students to work together to collect and analyze evidence, compare their findings, and solve the mystery. It’s an excellent way to teach students about scientific methods, critical thinking, and communication skills.

It is suitable for children aged eight and up, making it an ideal resource for elementary and middle school teachers. It’s an excellent activity for science classes, clubs, or at-home play. By using this kit, teachers can provide their students with a fun and educational experience they’ll remember for years.

A note of caution: While the Crime Scene Forensic Science Kit is an exciting and educational activity for students, it’s important to note that it involves the investigation of a crime scene, which can be sensitive and potentially triggering for some students. Teachers should use their discretion when deciding whether this activity is appropriate for their classroom and students.

However, the kit is a valuable resource for teachers looking to engage their students in forensic science. It’s an excellent way to teach critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork, all while having fun and learning about the science behind crime-solving.

 

6. Dinosaur Fossil Digging Kit

Bring the thrill of discovery to your classroom with the Dinosaur Excavation Kit! This kit is ideal for schools looking for an engaging activity to help students learn about paleontology, archeology, and the natural world.

With this kit, students will experience the excitement of being a real-life paleontologist using the included tools to dig out dinosaur fossils from a plaster block. The kit comes with a chisel, brush, and dusting cloth, all the tools needed to excavate the fossils safely.

While students work on uncovering their dinosaurs, they’ll learn about the different types of dinosaurs, the process of fossilization, and how scientists use fossils to learn about the past. This activity is a great way to promote hands-on learning and spark curiosity in the natural world.

The Dinosaur Excavation Kit is suitable for students of all ages and can be used as a standalone activity or as part of a larger unit on paleontology or archeology. The kit is versatile and can be used to teach a wide range of subjects, from science and history to math and even art.

Teachers can use the Dinosaur Excavation Kit to teach their students about scientific methods, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. This engaging activity can also help improve students’ fine motor skills, concentration, and patience.

It’s important to note that the Dinosaur Excavation Kit is a safe and fun activity for students but should be used under adult supervision. The kit is also reusable, so students can continue excavating fossils and learning about the natural world for years.

 

7. Engino STEM Toys

Introduce your students to the fascinating world of physics with the Engino Laws of Motion STEM Set! Designed with schools in mind, this kit is the perfect tool for teaching students about concepts like inertia, friction, and energy conservation.

With the help of the included instruction manual and easy-to-follow building plans, students can create various models, such as a pulley system, a crane, and a balance scale. These models will help students learn about the principles of force and motion and the relationship between weight, mass, and gravity.

This kit includes everything needed to build 8 different models, each demonstrating different physics principles.

With over 20 pages of instruction and a variety of building challenges. The Engino system also allows for technology integration, with the included Engino 3D Viewer app providing a 360-degree virtual experience of the models.

This kit is perfect for classroom use, with the ability to accommodate up to 30 students. Encourage creativity and critical thinking while teaching important physics concepts with the Engino Laws of Motion and Friction STEM kit.

 

A Final Word on the Best Classroom Science Kits

Science can often be perceived as a technical and tedious subject, making it difficult for teachers to capture their students’ interest. However, the best school science kits have the potential to change this perception and make science fun and engaging for students.

The best kits can aid students to connect with scientific concepts in a way that traditional classroom methods cannot.

While there are lots of great project packs out there, we highly recommend KiwiCo’s kits because of their engaging projects, comprehensive instructions, and extensive support.

Have any questions about our guide to the best science kits for schools? Let us know by leaving a comment below.