Matter is one of the most important ideas in science. Everything you can see, touch, or hold is made of matter—including the air around you! In this post, kids will learn what matter is, explore examples of matter, and discover how matter exists as solids, liquids, and gases using simple explanations and hands-on science.
What Is Matter?
This introduction to matter is perfect for elementary science and provides a strong foundation for future topics such as states of matter, physical science, and chemistry.
Matter can be described using physical properties like shape, texture, and state—learn more in our Physical Properties of Matter for Kids guide.
Grades: K–4 Field: Physical Science — Matter
💡 Matter is anything that has mass and takes up space.
That means if something:
- Has weight
- Takes up room
…it is matter.
Examples of matter include:
- A rock
- Water
- Air
- A pencil
- Your body
Matter makes up everything around us and is a key building block of science.
Matter Has Mass and Takes Up Space
Two important properties help us identify matter:
Mass
Space
These properties help scientists study and classify matter.
The Three Main States of Matter
Matter usually exists in one of three main states:
Solids
Solids have a definite shape and volume. They keep their shape no matter what container they are in.
Examples of solids:
- Ice
- A book
- A rock
Liquids
Liquids have a definite volume but no definite shape. They take the shape of their container.
Examples of liquids:
- Water
- Juice
- Oil
Gases
Gases have no definite shape or volume. They spread out and fill any container.
Examples of gases:
- Air
- Steam
- Natural gas
👉 Want a deeper dive?
Matter can exist as a solid, liquid, or gas—explore how matter changes form in our States of Matter Experiments for Kids guide.
Free What is Matter Quick Science Guide
Keep this “What is Matter?” reference sheet handy for a quick lesson.
Is There One More Type of Matter?
Yes! In addition to solids, liquids, and gases, matter can also exist as plasma.
Plasma is a high-energy state of matter found in:
- Lightning
- Stars
- The sun
Plasma is not commonly studied in elementary classrooms, but it helps show that matter can behave in many different ways.
Simple Matter Experiment for Kids
This easy experiment shows how one type of matter can change states.
NGSS Guiding Questions
- How can we tell if something is matter?
- What does it mean when something takes up space?
- How are solids, liquids, and gases different?
- Can matter change from one form to another?
- Is air considered matter? Why or why not?
What Kids Will Learn
- Matter is anything that has mass and takes up space
- Solids, liquids, and gases are different forms of matter
- Matter can change form, but it is still matter
- Scientists study matter by observing its properties
Solid, Liquid, Gas, Water Experiment
You will need:
- Ice
- Water
- A heat-safe container
- Adult supervision
What happens:
- Ice (solid) melts into water (liquid)
- Water heats up and turns into steam (gas)
This experiment demonstrates that matter can change states, but it is still the same matter.
👉 You can find more hands-on ideas here and a free printable:
Solid, Liquid, Gas Experiments for Kids
Why Is Matter Important in Science?
Matter is the foundation for many science topics kids learn later. Understanding matter helps kids:
- Learn how materials behave
- Explore physical changes
- Prepare for chemistry concepts
Once kids understand what matter is, they are ready to explore how matter changes, mixes, and reacts.
👉 Next learning step:
What Is Chemistry? A Kid-Friendly Introduction
Matter and Chemistry: What’s the Connection?
Chemistry is the study of matter and how it changes.
When kids:
- Mix ingredients
- Observe color changes
- Create gas bubbles
– They are exploring chemical changes in matter.
👉 You can continue learning here:
- Branches of Chemistry Explained for Kids
- Physical vs Chemical Changes
- Chemistry Experiments for Kids
More Science to Explore
If your kids enjoy learning about matter, try these next:
- States of Matter Activities
- Density Experiments
- What is an Element?
- Physical Science for Kids (coming soon)
Scientists also study what matter is made of. All matter is made up of smaller building blocks called elements, which help explain why materials have different properties.
Printable Science Packs for Kids
Visit our SHOP for easy-to-print STEM and science lesson plans for the whole year. Or join us in the Little Bins Club.
