Science-themed birthday parties aren’t just for kids who love science, just as magic-themed birthday parties aren’t just for children who want to be magicians when they grow up. A good stage magician can amuse anyone and so can a good science entertainer. 
The audience don’t have to be particularly interested in math or chemistry, they just have to be ready to see some amazing demonstrations and have a good time.
That’s not to say that the kids might not pick up an interest in science from watching a good science communicator or performer. The best of them have two aims- to make their audience laugh, and to make them think. They might also be able to change the minds of children (and grown ups) who think that science is boring.
Types of Science Parties:
There are dozens of science performance types for parents to choose from. For young children there are bubble wizards and simple but eye catching demonstrations. For slightly older kids, the show might be all about having fun with math or include experiments they can see, hear, and even touch. Young teens will already have some science background from their school work. There are chemistry shows, physics shows, biology shows (most kids love looking at everyday substances under a microscope- the grosser, the better!), and even astronomy shows for after dark. Whether your child already likes science or not, there is a science party entertainer out there that will suit them perfectly.
Tips to throwing a Science Party:
Always make sure the science entertainer you pick is age appropriate. Good ones are very up-front about who their show suits or will offer two or three different routines based on the age of the audience. Ask for references and also make sure they have some qualifications or are working towards them. Some will be college students looking to make a little extra cash but there’s nothing wrong with that if they have a real passion for the subject. Others will be full time professionals who work with museums and schools.
Decorating Tips for your Science Party:
You might also want to decorate the party venue to fit in with a science theme. Colored drinks and lights can help, and if you’re feeling short of inspiration, pick an episode of Mystery Science Theatre or an old sci fi movie and you’ll soon be able to create the right mood. Even small details like graph paper place mats will make a difference. Kids can also help make party decorations- cereal box robots for example- in the week before the big day.
Jess Spate is a great lover of all things scientific and has been since childhood. She writes for a UK science entertainment resource.
