Safe and Simple Science Rules
We set rules for our children every day. Some rules are for sharing and manners, some rules are to keep the peace, some rules ... well ... some rules are because mom needs some structure to the chaos. And some rules are for safety. Rules help establish acceptable parameters of behaviors and actions.
As homeschoolers, we sometimes need to make special rules. This is especially true when we are working with special tools or science experiments.
The subject of science can seem one of the most intimidating to teach at home. Here are a few simple, easy-to-follow rules to share with your children. Knowing what is acceptable will, in the long run, make projects and experiments more enjoyable (and safe) for your children and for you. These are also good rules if you are working in a group setting such as a co-op or scouting.
RULES FOR SAFE AND FUN SCIENCE
@Always have permission BEFORE you begin a project or experiment
@Have a lab partner, preferrably an adult, if you are working with anything sharp, hot, or with chemicals.
@Always protect your work area with old newspapers, a plastic drop cloth, or an old plastic table cloth.
@Only use equipment that is reserved for use with science experiments.
@Do not use glass containers accept under direct adult supervision. Use clean, dry plastic containers ... they don't shatter.
@Keep your hands away from your mouth and eyes. You could get germs or chemicals where they could injure you. (Remember how it feels to get shampoo in your eyes?)
@Wash your hands after each experiment!!
@Keep your pets away form your experiments. They won't understand what is dangerous to them.
@NEVER EVER taste your ingredients or experiments unless your parent says you may. Even if you are creating something edible, don't take one single sniff or nibble until you have their permission.
@Use safety goggles or plastic safety glasses and an apron when you work with stuff that might splatter.
@Lable and measure all your ingredients before you begin.
@Dispose of experiements and project in the proper container. Never pour anything down the drain or in the toilet without permission.
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