How To Set Up a Lab (for Kids)

Young scientists need a home laboratory to perform their experiments.Setting up a home science lab can be fun, but precautions must be taken and caution used.With a proper workspace and the purchase of a few essential items, your lab can be up and running in no time.

Step 1: Ask for permission.

You need to make sure that your parents approve of your home lab before you start setting it up.They can help you set up the space.You will need their help to pay for some of your new equipment.If you have a plan for your science space, your parents are more likely to agree.To convince them that it is a good idea, tell them what you would like to do with the space.To show your parents that you are serious about your passion, create a budget for the equipment and supplies you will need for your science lab.

Step 2: You can choose a work space.

It's important to make sure the space is big enough for your experiments.A corner of the room with enough space for a table and chairs is a good choice.All of the science experiment supplies should be kept in this space.Set up boundaries in the playroom using bookshelves as walls.An old table can be damaged without consequences.

Step 3: The space should have proper lighting.

It's possible to set up a lab near a window.You can see what you are doing during the experiment if you have a well-lit space.It can be dangerous to work in a dark place.Purchase a floor or table lamp to increase the light in the area if the overhead lighting is not enough.If you are doing experiments with the weather or plants that need sunlight, this will be helpful.

Step 4: Make sure the room is well-ventilated.

It's a good idea to set up your lab near a window.Some of your experiments may smell bad.Good air circulation is important when working in a space.You can use a fan to circulate the air during the experiment.

Step 5: Choose flooring made of linoleum or vinyl.

It is likely that you will spill something during your experiments, even if you are being super careful.If the room has carpet, you can place a plastic mat under the workspace to make it easier to clean.You can clean up after the experiment if you lay down plastic bags or newspaper.

Step 6: Keep safety equipment close by.

It's important to have a fire extinguisher and first aid kit in an easily accessible place.It is a good idea to set up your lab near a sink or bathroom.In case of an emergency, the lab space is much safer if there is running water nearby.There is a cleaning kit for spills nearby.

Step 7: All of the protective equipment should be obtained.

A safe home scientist is also a true scientist.Safety goggles, a lab coat, and gloves are required in a laboratory.It's good to put your protective equipment on if you don't need them for every experiment.The items can be purchased online.Your clothes will not get damaged during the experiment if you wear lab coats.

Step 8: Purchase a science kit.

The basics are included in one box in many kits for kids.There are different kits for different things.It all depends on what you are interested in.The kits are a good place to start.Be sure to save the components that are reuseable.

Step 9: Other essential lab equipment can be purchased.

The home scientist needs test tubes, beakers, flasks, and measuring devices.You can purchase glassware online.You can purchase a graduated cylinder to help measure volumes, or you can use measuring cups like the ones in the kitchen.A scale for weighing things can be useful.A lot of items around the house can be used for experiments.There are old soda bottles, cans, and take out containers that can be useful.

Step 10: Start with a notebook.

Every scientist keeps a record of their experiments.Take notes when you are working on something.It's important to include the date you were working and everything you did.Write down your results.You should include those in your notebook if you took pictures.

Step 11: The bench space should be clear.

You want to make sure that the table you are working on is clear when organizing your lab space.You don't want the bench to be cluttered with items because you need lots of space for your experiments.Keep only the things you need on the bench.Everything else should be left out.

Step 12: Everything should be in its special place.

All of your lab equipment should be in a dedicated space.It will be easier to find when you need it later.You can make things easier to access by keeping a set of plastic drawers or a bookshelf near your work bench.When you are done with the experiment, return everything to its place.

Step 13: After every experiment, clean up.

When you're done working in your lab, make sure to clean your bench space.If there was a spill, clean it up.Put the containers away when you wash them.If your lab coat is dirty, take it off and wash it.