Kits
Learning requires hand-on practice with the subject. Kits are an excellent tool for providing experiential learning in a range of subjects. We have picked kits that local families have tried and loved over the years. Many charter schools will pay for learning kits. So if you're enrolled in a charter school, be sure to check with your school to see if they will cover the cost before paying out-of-pocket.
Kits for Hands-on Learning
Multi-Subject Grades K-8
"Schoolhouse Discoveries" learning kits provide engaging and comprehensive educational experiences for children, covering a range of subjects from science to art. Each kit is carefully curated to include hands-on activities, experiments, and materials, fostering curiosity and creativity in young learners. With easy-to-follow instructions and captivating content, these kits make learning enjoyable and impactful for children of all ages. Kits include instructions, books, and material. They come in 2 levels K-4 and 5-8. Schoolhouse Discoveries accepts funds from many charter schools so it's worth checking with your charter.
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Science Literature Grades PK-3
Ivy Kids subscription boxes are created by certified early childhood educators. They offer a delightful and educational experience for children through hands-on activities and creative learning materials. Each month, subscribers receive a curated box filled with a variety of themed projects designed to engage and stimulate young minds. From science experiments to art projects and literature-based activities, Ivy Kids provides a well-rounded approach to learning that aligns with educational standards. The subscription is tailored for children aged 3 to 8, fostering a love for learning in a fun and interactive way. Visit their website at https://ivy-kids.com to explore the enriching world of Ivy Kids subscription boxes.
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Science Grades 3-8
Generation Genius science kits are designed for children between the ages of 8 and 13. The kits aim to promote hands-on learning and critical thinking skills by providing a range of experiments and activities covering various scientific topics such as physics, chemistry, and biology. Each monthly kit contains 3 experiments and comes with all the necessary materials. Video instructions and explanations of the science behind the projects are included. The kits are created by a team of educators and scientists and are aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) to ensure that they are both educational and engaging.
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Science Engineering Grades 3-8
Created by former NASA engineer turned YouTube science sensation Mark Rober, Crunch Lab science kits contain build-it-yourself toys designed to teach children about science and engineering. The kits cover a variety of topics including electricity, physics, chemistry, and more. Each kit includes all the necessary materials and instructions for completing the project. Designed by a team of educators and engineers, The Crunch Lab kits are aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) to ensure that they meet educational standards. The kits aim to inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in children, making science learning a fun and enjoyable experience.
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History Grades K-12
History Unboxed is a subscription-based kit that delivers monthly boxes containing a curated selection of historical material. Each box is centered around a specific theme or era, and includes items such as maps, projects, documents, coins, and other artifacts related to the chosen theme. Boxes are available for 3 levels of learners: kids, teens, and young adults. They are great boxes for individual use or as part of a history co-op. As a bonus, History Unboxed has paired their kits with homeschool history curriculums including Curiosity Chronicles and History Quest making it easy to have your kit match what your kids are studying.
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Art Science Grades Preschool-11
Kiwi Crate is a monthly subscription kit that delivers hands-on, educational projects and activities for kids. Each crate is centered around a specific theme and includes all the materials and instructions needed for kids to complete projects such as art, science experiments, and engineering challenges. Kiwi Crate has expanded its product line to include crates for different age groups and interests. They offer Tinker Crates, Doodle Crates, Yummy Crates, Atlas Crates, and a few crates for younger kids. Kiwi Crates and their related crates are local favorites and often available for purchase through charters.
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STEM Math Science Grades K-12
Mel Science offers a subscription-based service for students to conduct exciting and interactive experiments and projects. Monthly kits include all the necessary materials and equipment for experiments, such as VR goggles, microscopes, and chemicals. Along with the box, subscribers also receive a mobile app that provides step-by-step instructions and interactive 3D simulations to guide them through the experiments. Mel Science allows parents to set their preferred subjects including STEM, physics, chemistry, space, and math. Each kit contains enough supplies for 2 kids. Mel Science is a vendor with all 3 local homeschool charters.
Nature Outdoor Skills Grades K-12
Think Outside offers monthly adventure kits that to get kids into nature and exploring. Boxes are designed to inspire a connection with nature using outdoor gear and fun, educational activities to sharpen their outdoors skills. Kids who enjoy Earthbound Skills are likely to enjoy these boxes as well. Their website also includes monthly lesson plans for families that want to integrate Think Outside into their curriculum. Boxes can be selected for two age groups: Think Outside (7-16+) and Think Outside Jr. (4-7). Think Outside is a vendor for Lakeview and South Sutter.
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More Ideas?
If you have a curriculum you love but isn't included here, we'd love to hear from you!
Also, if you see a correction we should make, please let us know.