What Counts as Science for Homeschool? (And How to Cover It Easily)

When it comes to homeschooling, science can feel like one of the trickier subjects to “check off.” Do you need a textbook? Quizzes? Lab reports? What if you’re just reading books about animals and doing experiments in the kitchen—does that count?

Here’s the good news: in a homeschool setting, science doesn’t have to look like it did in school. In fact, the more flexible and hands-on your approach, the more your child will learn.

So what does count as science for homeschool? Let’s break it down—and make it easier than ever to feel confident that you’re covering it. 💪

At its core, science is the study of the world around us. That includes:

• Living things (biology, animals, plants)
  
  

• Earth and space (geology, astronomy, weather)
  
  

• Matter and energy (chemistry, physics)
  
  

• Invention and investigation (engineering and scientific method)
  
  

It’s not about memorizing facts—it’s about observing, experimenting, asking questions, and noticing patterns. If your child is exploring, discovering, and thinking critically … they’re doing science. 🥰

You might be doing more science than you think. Here are some activities that absolutely count:

Reading Nonfiction Science Books

Books about animals, space, volcanoes, inventions, the human body—all of that is science. Pair them with discussions or notebook pages, and you’ve got a full lesson.

Hands-On Experiments

From baking soda volcanoes to growing plants in a jar, experiments help kids apply what they’ve learned in a meaningful way. No fancy lab required.

Nature Study

Walks in the woods, birdwatching, rock collecting, gardening, pond scooping, or tracking bugs in the backyard—this is biology in action.

STEM Building and Engineering

Building bridges, designing contraptions, testing ramps or marble runs—all of that touches on engineering, physics, and problem solving.

Kitchen Science

Baking teaches chemical reactions. Making ice cream in a bag? That’s states of matter. Measuring ingredients? Science + math.

Science Shows and Documentaries

Watching Magic School Bus, Wild Kratts, or a Smithsonian or Nat Geo special (Disney+ has a ton!) absolutely counts—especially if it sparks questions and conversation.

Science Kits or Unit Studies

Hands-on kits (like the ones from Knowledge Crates) or science-based unit studies give structure while still keeping things fun and engaging.

Keeping a Science Journal

Even simple notebooking counts: drawing a life cycle, recording an experiment, or writing about the weather are great ways to document science learning.

You don’t need a full curriculum to weave science into your day. Watch for these natural learning opportunities:

• Observing how puddles dry up (evaporation)
  
  

• Asking why metal feels colder than wood (conductivity)
  
  

• Talking about how leaves change color (photosynthesis)
  
  

• Wondering where thunder comes from (weather patterns)
  
  

• Discussing why something sinks or floats (density)
  
  

When your child asks questions about how the world works, lean in. That curiosity is science in motion.

That depends on your state’s homeschool requirements. Some states list topics by grade level, others just want evidence of science learning. (Check your local regulations to be sure.)

Generally, a well-rounded elementary homeschool science experience might include:

• Life Science (plants, animals, ecosystems, human body)
  
  

• Earth & Space Science (weather, geology, astronomy)
  
  

• Physical Science (states of matter, energy, motion)
  
  

• Scientific Inquiry (observing, predicting, experimenting)
  
  

But remember—your homeschool doesn’t need to follow the same order as a school district. If your child is obsessed with space for six months straight, that’s okay! Deep dives are powerful learning tools.

Short answer: you don’t need them unless your state requires them.

Instead of tests, try these homeschool-friendly ways to show science understanding:

• Ask your child to explain an experiment in their own words
  
  

• Keep a binder of drawings, photos, or written reflections
  
  

• Do a final project at the end of a unit (poster, model, diorama, slideshow)
  
  

• Let your child “teach back” a concept to you or a sibling
  
  

The goal is understanding—not memorization. And you’ll know quickly if they “get it” just by having a conversation.

Here’s a super simple way to plan a week of science that works for almost any age:

This kind of flexible rhythm gives your child structure without making science feel like a chore—and it keeps you from wondering if you’re “doing enough.”

If planning feels overwhelming or you just want everything in one place, Knowledge Crates makes it easy. We design our science-based homeschool kits to take the guesswork out of teaching—while keeping learning fun and hands-on.

Each unit study includes:

• All the materials you need (no extra shopping required)
  
  

• A mix of life, earth, and physical science topics
  
  

• Engaging books, clear guides, and open-ended activities
  
  

• Creative tie-ins with art, literacy, and more
  
  

Whether you’re covering the deep ocean, weather, or insects, Knowledge Crates gives you everything you need to explore science at home—without the prep!

Science in your homeschool doesn’t have to mean textbooks and tests. It’s already happening every time your child wonders why the sky is blue, builds a LEGO tower that won’t fall, or helps in the garden.

By paying attention to those moments—and layering in books, experiments, and exploration—you’re creating a rich, meaningful science education at home. One that your child will actually remember.

So go ahead. Let them mix, build, dig, observe, question, and wonder. It all counts.