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Table-top activities

One of the biggest challenges when planning a science engagement event is finding the right format for your activities, according to your topic and your target audience.

There are many different formats that public engagement can take, such as a science art exhibition or film screening, open lab days, Science Cafes, or a community science fair to name a few.

On many occasions, you may find that you want to do a table-top activity, whether that be at a festival, a workshop, or a science fair. You could develop your own, or be inspired by many of the various resources online. Science buddies has a great repository of activities suitable for children available here.

The Faculty also have How-to Guides available for some table-top activities we have developed in the past; we may also have the necessary kit available already.

Designing a brief and engaging science activity for children requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure it's both educational and enjoyable. Here are some key considerations:

  1. Age appropriateness - tailor the activity to the specific age group of the children. Ensure the content is neither too simple nor too complex for their understanding
  2. Simple instructions - keep the instructions clear, concise, and easy to understand. Use visuals, demonstrations, or simple language to explain the steps
  3. Hands-on and interactive - children learn best through hands-on experiences. Plan an activity that allows them to actively participate and explore concepts rather than just observing
  4. Engaging materials - select materials that are colourful, appealing, and interesting to children. This can enhance their engagement and make the activity more enjoyable
  5. Relevance to everyday life - connect the activity to something relevant in their daily lives. Relatable examples can help them understand and remember scientific concepts
  6. Incorporate storytelling - integrate a simple and engaging story or context related to the scientific concept. Storytelling can captivate children's interest and make the activity more memorable
  7. Safety - prioritize safety by choosing activities that don't involve hazardous materials or sharp objects. If there are any potential risks, provide clear instructions and supervision
  8. Quick setup and cleanup - ensure that setting up the activity is quick and straightforward, as well as easy to clean up. This will help make the most of the short timeframe
  9. Adaptability - be prepared to adapt the activity based on the number of participants, available space, and any unforeseen circumstances. Flexibility is key
  10. Encourage questions - foster curiosity by encouraging children to ask questions. Be prepared to provide simple and age-appropriate explanations to their inquiries
  11. Feedback and reflection - you could allow a brief period at the end of the activity for children to share their thoughts or ask additional questions. This can also be an opportunity for them to reflect on what they've learned.

Remember to test the activity beforehand to ensure it aligns with the time constraint and is both educational and entertaining.