Experiments
Take It Apart Lab
Open up an old gadget with screwdrivers and see how it works inside.
Ages 10 to 15
45 minutes
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Get ready
5 minutes. Find an old unplugged device like a keyboard, remote, toy or alarm clock. Remove the batteries.
What you’ll need
An old device, small screwdrivers, a muffin tin or bowls for screws, and safety glasses if you have them.
Let’s play
1. Make sure the device is unplugged and has no batteries.
2. Unscrew the case and sort the screws into the muffin tin.
3. Find the parts you recognize, like buttons, wires, springs or a circuit board.
4. Guess what each part does and look up one you don’t know.
5. Try to put it back together, or save the best parts for a future build.
Your part in the adventure
Supervise and ask questions. Let your kid hold the screwdriver.
What they’re discovering
They’re learning how everyday things work and practicing patience with small parts.
Before you begin
Never open anything that plugs into the wall while plugged in, and skip microwaves, old TVs, power supplies and anything with a swollen battery.
Keep the idea going
Ages 10 to 11 can stick to simple toys and remotes. Ages 13 to 15 can try a keyboard or a mechanical clock.
Every child is different. Adjust activities for their age and abilities, and stay close by. These are play ideas, not medical or developmental advice.