One of the best things about doing science in the summer is that you can take the mess outdoors, and clean it up with a hose. So what are you waiting for? Grab the baking soda, vinegar, food coloring, cornstarch and balloons and head outside for some instant off-screen fun. Share photos of your experiments on Twitter and Instagram using the hashtag #ScienceMess!

Here are some ideas to get you started, but you can find lots more on this website and in my new book Outdoor Science Lab for Kids!

Sidewalk Frescoes with Cornstarch Goo

Driveway Frescoes from Outdoor Science Lab for Kids (Quarry Books)

Paper Bag (or coffee filter) Volcanoes

Paper Bag Volcanoes From Kitchen Science Lab for Kids (Quarry Books)

Solar Heat Beam

From Outdoor Science Lab for Kids (Quarry Books)

Have fun experimenting! And don’t forget to clean up your mess!

Photo by AmberProcaccini.com