Amazing discoveries with everyday materials! Fun summer vacation independent research ideas
Many children probably still haven’t decided on their summer vacation independent research project yet, right? For those of you thinking, “I want to do something interesting!” but wondering, “What theme should I choose?”, here are experiment and observation ideas that will make you think, “I want to try this!” From fun experiments you can do with everyday materials to studies where you can observe the fascinating behavior of living creatures—these are all activities anyone can enjoy.
Through your independent research, new discoveries and excitement are waiting for you!
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Amazing discoveries with everyday materials! Fun summer vacation independent research ideas (51–60)
Paper yo-yo made from disposable chopsticks and wrapping paper

Let me introduce a paper yo-yo made from chopsticks and wrapping paper that’s fun to stretch and snap back.
Prepare some chopsticks and wrapping paper, and let’s get started.
Measure the length and cut the wrapping paper into a rectangle, then join the pieces with glue or tape.
Secure a chopstick with tape and roll the paper around it.
The key is to roll it tightly so there are no gaps.
Finish with decorations, and it’s done.
Try different wrapping papers to make your own original paper yo-yo and have fun! Be safe and don’t aim it at people.
How to make a chopstick tree

Here’s how to make a chopstick tree that lets you enjoy a cozy nighttime atmosphere when you light it up.
Prepare chopsticks, yarn, glue, and decorations like beads, then get started.
First, build the tree’s frame with chopsticks.
Wrap yarn evenly around the base.
For a summery feel, you could use colors like light blue or pale green.
Once you decorate it with summer-themed items such as watermelon or fish-shaped wind chimes, your chopstick tree is complete.
It’s sure to captivate elementary school kids, too.
Try changing the seasonal theme as you make it—you might discover something new each time.
Chopstick grabber

Let me introduce a chopstick grabber that’s fun to make and fun to play with.
Prepare eight wooden chopsticks, double-sided tape, plastic bottle caps, and rubber bands.
Stack four chopsticks in a crisscross pattern and secure the center with a rubber band.
Make another set the same way.
Combine the two finished sets and bind them with rubber bands where the chopsticks overlap to hold them together.
Finally, attach two plastic bottle caps to the tip, and it’s done.
Try moving the handle and have fun playing with it!
Sparkling hourglass

Let’s make a cute, sparkly hourglass that doubles as interior decor.
Prepare two small bottles, glitter to use as sand, a clear plastic file sheet, and decorative parts.
Cut the clear file slightly larger than the bottle opening and make a hole in the center for the glitter to pass through.
Attach tape and half-cover the hole, then glue it to the bottle.
Add the glitter and glue on the other bottle.
Finish it off cutely with decorative parts.
After adding the glitter, be careful not to turn it over until the adhesive has dried.
Amazing discoveries with everyday materials! Fun summer vacation independent research ideas (61–70)
lampshade

Here’s a lampshade idea that also works as room decor.
Brush glue mixed with water onto an inflated balloon, then stick on small torn pieces of washi paper.
For sturdiness, layer the washi several times until the balloon’s color isn’t very visible.
Be sure to leave an opening where the light will go.
Since washi is white, use tissue paper if you want to add color.
Once it’s completely dry, pop the balloon and remove it, then secure a wire along the inside edge of the opening for the light to finish it off.
Experimenting with resin?!

If you want to try your hand at making things with resin, why not purchase a resin craft kit? It comes with all the basic materials and tools, so you can start creating right away.
Deciding what shape to make and which parts to decorate with—and bringing your ideas to life—is a lot of fun.
While resin is often used for crafts, you can also do experiments, such as comparing how quickly different resin liquids cure! If it’s your first time, please work together with a parent or guardian.
Gem-like soap

Gemstone soaps are available as DIY kits, but they’re easy to make as long as you have glycerin soap and coloring.
Cut the glycerin soap into small pieces and place them in a container, then heat in a microwave at 500W for 10 seconds.
Mix in your favorite colorant to add color, and add aroma for fragrance.
Once you’ve made a few colors, pour them into another container in layers and let them set—that’s it! Try changing the color combinations and see what kinds of gemstones you can create.
Using a clear soap base also gives a light, airy look and is highly recommended.



