A magnet experiment is easy for young kids to set up! We like using everyday items to test out our science ideas. This “what’s magnetic and what’s not magnetic” activity is a hands-on way to teach preschoolers about magnets using simple materials. Enjoy fun and playful learning with our preschool science activities!
What’s Magnetic and What’s Not Activity
Supplies:
- Magnetic wands or bar magnets
- Assorted items from around the house or classroom
- A bin or container to hold the items
- 2 smaller containers to sort items into magnetic and non-magnetic
- Free printable magnet activity worksheets (below)
TIP: Examples of everyday magnetic objects could include metal paper clips, hair clips spoons or forks, keys, nuts, bolts or nails, pipe cleaners, wire, and jar lids made from steel.
Magnet Experiment Instructions:
STEP 1. Set out a container of assorted items for kids to explore. Get kids to predict what items they think will be magnetic.
TIP: You can even add a few items that are not all magnetic but have a magnetic part to encourage observation and problem solving skills.
STEP 2. Use the magnetic wand to test what items are magnetic and what items aren’t. Have them place the item in the bin or tray that is labeled “magnetic” or “non-magnetic.” {Labels “yes” and “no” work well, too.} Repeat with all the items until the container is empty.
STEP 3. Make sure to ask questions and discuss their observations. Is the item magnetic or not magnetic? What do you think those objects might be made of?
More Fun Magnet Activities For Preschoolers
We love helping our kiddos learn in a multi-sensory way with one of these fun hands-on activities below. See our list of preschool magnet activities.
- Magnet Painting
- Magnetic Sensory Bottle
- Magnetic Slime
- Printable Magnet Science Worksheet Pack
- Magnetic Maze
- Floating Magnet Experiment
What Are Magnetic Objects?
Magnets are a type of rock or a piece of metal that can produce a magnetic field. This magnetic field is invisible but we can see how it can attract or pull specific types of metal toward itself.
The force of a magnet, called magnetism, is a common force of nature, just like electricity or gravity. Kids will discover a magnetic field is concentrated around the ends of magnets which are called poles.
Iron is a highly magnetic metal. However, not all metals are magnetic—aluminum, copper, and gold are non-magnetic.
Magnets don’t need to touch other objects for them to work. Even from a distance magnets can find each other because of their magnetic field. Try it out and see for yourself!
More Fun Pre-K Learning Activities
- Shadow Activities
- Exploring Volume
- Toy Car Friction Activity
- Build a Bridge: Community Helper STEM
- Nature Table Investigation
- 5 Senses Sensory Station
Printable Preschool Project Pack
Get ready to explore this year with our Preschool STEM Bundle.
What’s Included:
There are 20+ fun preschool themes to get you started. This is an ” I can explore” series! Science, STEM, Math, and more.
Each unit contains approximately 15 activities, with instructions and templates as needed. Hands-on activities are provided to keep it fun and exciting. This includes sensory bins, experiments, games, and more! Easy supplies keep it low cost, and book suggestions add to the learning time.
