STEM fun for 10+: Smithsonian Mega Science Lab and Jellyfish Tank



Product was received to review. Opinions are our own.


We are well into our 2020-2021 homeschool year, and the kids have been getting fidgety. Between an early cold snap that cut short playing outside and the cancellation of many of our activities due to COVID, we have been hearing a lot of "I'm bored" lately.


Well, we have good news for you! Smithsonian has given us the opportunity to try out two amazing products for kids ages 10 and up to fine-tune their science skills while having fun. The Mega Science Lab and the Jellyfish Tank weren't exactly what I thought would get my kids to sit down and stay engaged for hours, but it ended up being the perfect way to get some quiet in my house!


Here's a bit more about the two:


Smithsonian Mega Science Lab


This kit has six activities for kids ages 10 and up, but my 7-year-old was able to "help." I would also recommend an adult guide kids through these activities (at least in the beginning.) Note that while they don't take up much room and don't need extra things from the home, they can get messy!





Our favorite activities were the dino dig, which kept my kid engaged for over 3 hours and the little biodome that my youngest used to catch fruit flies from the kitchen. Both have extended play value, as the dino skeleton can be used as fun decor in their room, and the little bug house can be used year-round for capturing all kinds of things!









The six activities also include a weather station, volcano, crystal growing, and Earth model. Lots to do here to keep bored kids busy and learning! (It's also a great value at just $29.99)

Jellyfish Tank


Who wouldn't want real jellyfish floating about in their bedroom? While we can't realistically keep jellyfish in our homes, this fun light really does make it look like the beautiful creatures are floating around in a brilliantly-lit container. This light doesn't take much time to set up (just be sure to follow the directions exactly.) When you're done, you have a very mesmerizing light that will brighten up a dark room and make kids go "whoa!" A fun posted with jellyfish facts are included to help create additional learning discussions.







The Jellyfish Tank is available for $24.99 from retailers like Target. If you're looking for a soothing, engaging way to learn about these unique creatures, I can't think of a better way!


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