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Science Inquiry & Investigation

Encourage scientific inquiry by teaching the scientific method with hands-on activities. From magnifiers and safety goggles to balances and beakers, Kaplan’s science inquiry and investigation selection has all the tools needed for safe and fun experiments and classroom activities.

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Image of Ramptastic - STEM Ramp for Testing Velocity
Ramptastic - STEM Ramp for Testing Velocity
Item: 63780
Status: In Stock
$74.95
3 years & up. This sturdy wooden incline ramp invites children to explore STEM concepts through prediction and experimentation. The six varying textures give children the opportunity to test the effects of surfacing, weight, and velocity on the potential speed and function of different objects. Ramptastic also introduces simple machines to children and is the perfect addition to the STEM toys in your classroom. Activity card(s) included. Cars sold separately. Measures 12.5"L x 4.75"W x 4.25"H.
Image of Beaker - Set of 6
Beaker - Set of 6
Item: 302724
Status: In Stock
$29.95
2 years & up. Make hands-on science fun and accessible with this set of 6 child-sized beakers that are perfect for early STEM exploration in the classroom or at home. Designed with young learners in mind, each beaker is lightweight, durable, and easy for small hands to grip and pour. Ideal for mixing, measuring, pouring, and experimenting, these beakers encourage curiosity, problem-solving, and fine motor development. Whether used for real experiments or imaginative play, this versatile set… More »
Image of Safety Goggles
Safety Goggles
Item: 302606
Status: In Stock
$5.95
3 years & up. Prioritize safety and encourage good habits with a pair of adjustable safety goggles. Scratch-resistant lenses protect children's eyes from scratches, cuts, burns, splashes and chemical exposure during hands-on science activities. Easy-to-clean plastic is flexible around the eye area, making the goggles comfortable. Each pair measures 6.3"L x 3.1"W x 2.1"H.
Image of Jumbo Eyedroppers - Set of 3
Jumbo Eyedroppers - Set of 3
Item: 302404
Status: In Stock
$6.95
2 years & up. Enhance the possibilities for scientific discovery by adding authentic, easy-to-use eyedroppers to your classroom. The perfect addition to science lessons, exploration and sensory play, these jumbo eyedroppers are made from easy-to-clean plastic. Children will have fun experimenting with cause and effect while practicing fine motor skills. Includes 3 droppers, each measures 4.6" long.
Image of 3-in-1 Discovery Tool
3-in-1 Discovery Tool
Item: 302408
Status: In Stock
$14.95
2 years & up. Spark curiosity and hands-on discovery with this versatile 3-in-1 exploration tool! Designed for young learners, this compact device combines a magnifying glass, compass, and level giving children multiple ways to investigate and interact with the world around them. Whether examining objects up close, exploring basic navigation, or experimenting with balance, this multipurpose loupe supports early STEM learning through active play. Sized for small hands, it's easy to carry with… More »
Image of Jumbo Test Tubes with Stand
Jumbo Test Tubes with Stand
Item: 302405
Status: In Stock
$15.95
2 years & up. Enhance the possibilities for scientific discovery by adding authentic, easy-to-use test tubes to your classroom. Complete with a convenient stand, this set of jumbo test tubes are durable, and easy to clean, making them perfect for little hands in classroom settings. Children will have fun experimenting and exploring while using different liquids, or even engaging in dramatic play. Stand measures 7.1"L x 3.4"W x 2.7"H. Each tube measures 4.75" long. Includes 3 test tubes and stand.
Image of All-Weather Jumbo Tweezers - Set of 6
All-Weather Jumbo Tweezers - Set of 6
Item: 37853
Status: In Stock
$12.95
18 months & up. Encourage toddlers to develop and strengthen their pincer grasp and fine motor skills with these All-Weather Jumbo Tweezers. Molded from new Poly+ material, these are the perfect companion for indoor and outdoor activities. Easy-to-hold tweezers feature textured, extra large grips for small hands. Set includes 6 tweezers. Each tweezer measures 5.7"L x 2.3"W x 1.1"H.
Image of All-Weather Magnifying Glass - Set of 4
All-Weather Magnifying Glass - Set of 4
Item: 37849
Status: In Stock
$35.95
$28.95
18 months & up. Bring the world into focus through hands-on discovery! The All-Weather Magnifying Glass Set encourages children to explore, investigate, and observe their surroundings with curiosity and confidence. Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, these magnifiers feature 5x magnification to help children closely examine plants, insects, textures, and everyday objects-supporting early science and STEM learning. Molded from new Poly+,a composite material made from 30% less plastic, this… More »
Image of Creative Investigations in Early Science - Paperback
Creative Investigations in Early Science - Paperback
Item: 92755
Status: In Stock
$18.95
Young children are born scientists with an innate desire to analyze and investigate the world around them. Creative Investigations in Early Science helps educators expand and encourage young learners' inquisitive nature as they explore the physical, life, and earth sciences. Paperback. 100 pages.
Image of All-Weather Kaleidoscope Loupes - Set of 4
All-Weather Kaleidoscope Loupes - Set of 4
Item: 37852
Status: In Stock
$21.95
18 months & up. Add an exciting element to children's exploration while inspiring them to view the world in a whole new way with the All-Weather-Kaleidoscope Loupes. Shatter-resistant plastic lenses and soft-touch overmolding make these the perfect companion for little hands during outdoor and indoor discovery. Set includes 2 of each type of lens. Each loop measures 2.4" x 2.4" x 2.4".
Image of All-Weather Tabletop Magnifier - Set of 2
All-Weather Tabletop Magnifier - Set of 2
Item: 37851
Status: In Stock
$54.95
18 months & up. Encourage children to get a closer look at the world around them with a Tabletop Magnifier. Molded from new Poly+ material, this safe and durable waterproof magnifier is the perfect companion for every indoor and outdoor adventure. Solid glass lenses are scratch resistant and protected by overmolded soft touch plastic. Set includes 2 magnifiers. Each magnifier measures 7.3" x 7.3" x 6.1".
Image of Science--Not Just for Scientists! Easy Explorations for Young Children - Paperback
Science--Not Just for Scientists! Easy Explorations for Young Children - Paperback
Item: 28588
Status: In Stock
$12.95
Children are natural scientists, drawn to wonder, exploration, discovery, and analysis. This book gives you simple ideas to open up the world of discovery to young children. Through open-ended explorations, you will discover how to cultivate children's natural curiosity by asking simple questions: How? When? Where? And the most famous of all children's questions: Why? The hands-on activities will empower children to question, experiment, and develop abstract reasoning skills. Children will explore… More »
Image of STEM Journals - Set of 10
STEM Journals - Set of 10
Item: 86303
Status: In Stock
$24.95
3 years & up. This 8 page STEM Journal outlines how to utilize the scientific process in an early childhood classroom. Each of the 11"L x 8.5"W pages provide a space for children to draw pictures along with developmentally appropriate lines to write text as they utilize the scientific method. Perfect addition to any science center! Set of 10 journals.
Image of Kaplan Magnifiers with Built-In Light - Set of 3
Kaplan Magnifiers with Built-In Light - Set of 3
Item: 71411
Status: In Stock
$24.95
$14.95
3 years & up. Take a closer look and explore the world around you with the Kaplan Magnifiers with Built-In Light! This set of three magnifiers feature 3x to 5x magnification of objects. Turn on the built-in light to improve visibility. Magnifiers measure 5.75", 6", and 6.75" long. Each individual magnifier requires 3 AAA batteries (not included).
Image of Durable Eye Droppers Small Pipettes - Set of 12
Durable Eye Droppers Small Pipettes - Set of 12
Item: 87285
Status: In Stock
$6.95
3 years & up. Introduce new materials to your science center with these Durable Eye Droppers. These small pipettes are great for transferring liquid materials in science experiments or for practicing fine motor skills. The plastic tubes and rubber tops provide a safe tool for class and small group investigations. Your children will love exploring and observing different reactions.
Image of Transparent Animal X-Rays and Pictures
Transparent Animal X-Rays and Pictures
Item: 24237
Status: In Stock
$29.95
4 years & up. Real animal x-rays printed on durable transparent plastic are great for years of use on light tables, overhead projectors, and white surfaces. Study the interior structure of several mammals, reptiles, fish, amphibians, and birds. Examine the picture cards with the x-rays. These highly detailed photographs match the animal x-rays. Lay the x-ray over the photograph to see how the skeletal system supports the body of each animal. Includes 14 X-rays, 14 picture cards, and a teacher… More »
Image of Primer Practice Balance With Clear Buckets
Primer Practice Balance With Clear Buckets
Item: 47875
Status: In Stock
$24.95
3 years & up. Help your children count and sort with this Primer Practice Balance With Clear Buckets for Developing Math Skills. Children will exercise their critical thinking skills as they count out pieces to achieve equilibrium. This activity promotes fine motor skills, color recognition, and discovery. Great for individual or small group play. Includes removable, transparent .5-liter buckets for comparing liquids or solids. One gram sensitivity.
Image of Playfoam Pluffle Basic Colors - 2 Pack
Playfoam Pluffle Basic Colors - 2 Pack
Item: 147631
Status: In Stock
$20.95
5 years & up. Mesmerize children for hours on end with this unique, feel-good play foam by Educational Insights. This super soft, fluffy stuff is fun to squish, mix, and more. Watch as it sticks together under pressure and magically expands and moves apart when the pressure is released. Place it in a tube or jar, flip it upside down, and watch as it crawls and trickles down to the bottom. Great for enhancing sensory development skills, creative play, and more. Pluffle never dries out and is… More »
Image of Jumbo Test Tubes with Stand
Jumbo Test Tubes with Stand
Item: 98245
Status: In Stock
$21.95
4 years & up. Use these Jumbo Easy to Grip Test Tubes with Stand for Early STEM Learning in your next STEM lesson. These chunky science tools are sized just right for little scientists. Children will love filling these tubes with different liquids or materials for experiments. These test tubes can also be used for dramatic play. Set includes 6 jumbo test tubes with a rack and multiple color lids.
Image of Magnetic Match Rings
Magnetic Match Rings
Item: 62578
Status: In Stock
$16.95
3 years & up. Learn about magnetism, develop visual matching skills, and improve eye-hand coordination. Each ring is magnetic -- one side positive and the other negative. When the rings are stacked, they either attract the next ring and pull them together, or repel it and cause it to float. Includes 40 pattern match challenges, 10 magnetic rings, a stand, and a storage bag.
Image of Play & Explore Bug Stones - 8 Pieces
Play & Explore Bug Stones - 8 Pieces
Item: 63566
Status: In Stock
$34.95
2 years & up. Support children's growing understanding of the world around them with this realistic set of 8 bugs. Set includes an ant, beetle, butterfly, centipede, dragonfly, ladybug, spider and woodlouse. Made from a special stone mix for added durability makes these bugs perfect for outdoor use. Each stone measures approximately 3.5". Magnifying glass and brushes are not included.
Image of Very First Magnet Kit
Very First Magnet Kit
Item: 146515
Status: In Stock
$39.95
4 years & up. Your little scientist will cling to the Very First Magnetic Kit! Kids will explore the power of magnetism by comparing magnetic versus non-magnetic objects. Play magnet games and discover if a magnetic force can travel through water, cardboard, or sides of a glass jar. Includes: Magnetic wand, Giant horseshoe magnet, 2 Plastic-encased block magnet, 3 Ceramic ring magnets, 20 Metal-rimmed counting chips, 10 Magnet marbles, and an Activity booklet.
Image of Measuring Cups And Spoons - 2 Sets Each
Measuring Cups And Spoons - 2 Sets Each
Item: 24458
Status: In Stock
$18.95
2 sets each of 5 measuring cups (1/8, 1/4, 1/3, 1/2,1 cup) and 4 measuring spoons (1/2 and 1 tsp, 1/2 and 1 tbsp). Each set bound on plastic ring. Cups and spoons labeled with Metric and U.S. Customary Units.
Image of GeoSafari® Jr. Talking Microscope
GeoSafari® Jr. Talking Microscope
Item: 63770
Status: In Stock
$69.95
4 years & up. Introduce children to a real scientific toy that provides visual detail and information about animals, plants, and everyday household items. Fully functioning 5x microscope with two comfortable eyepieces contains 20 slides with 60 photo-quality images, and over 100 facts and questions. Multilingual audio-4 languages included! Requires 3 AAA batteries (sold separately).