DS is four and started school this year. His turn for show and tell is in a few weeks. We bought a Green Science Spinning Top Generator that works using electromagnetic power. We built the generator together and he understands the basic concept of how it works. Spin the top with the magnets which creates electricity to run the light in the tower. He wants to bring this for show and tell.

I'm just wondering if there are any kindergarten teachers that think that this project is not age appropriate for show and tell? The generator is safe no one could harm themselves, there are no batteries or electricity that is produced from a socket and the magnets are sealed into the unit so they cannot be ingested.

Here is a link to the kit (ours is built he would just have to spin the top and explain to the class how it works):

Spinning Top Generator

He also wants to bring his paper airplane so at least we have a back-up plan.

The only downfall is if he takes it apart there are small pieces, screws mostly.

By Annie2 on Wednesday, October 8, 2008 - 11:34 pm:

I would call his teacher or email her the link, to ask. I don't see a problem with it but who knows these days.

By Tink on Wednesday, October 8, 2008 - 11:45 pm:

I teach a 4yo preschool classroom and this would be a hit in our room! I'd double-check with your DS's teacher but I wouldn't foresee an issue. I hope he enjoys his show and tell.

By Reds9298 on Friday, October 10, 2008 - 09:26 pm:

K teacher here...I would contact the teacher just to let her know what he will be bringing in, how it works, etc. I think it will be a great show & tell, but she might like to know more about it before she gets it, just so she's educated. Sounds cool!

By Chai~latte on Saturday, October 11, 2008 - 07:59 pm:

Thanks so much for all the input. He has a daily note tote, I'll put the info in there and see what she says.

By Bellajoe on Sunday, October 12, 2008 - 12:52 pm:

That is way cooler than the usual stuffed animals, trophies, games etc they probably usually see.

My ds had show and tell every Friday in first grade. It was so hard to try to find something cool or different to bring in every week. I think he ended up showing and telling about a lot of his stuffed animals But he did bring in his Magician's Hat and did a magic trick for his class. He said that was a hit.

I hope he can bring it in, it looks neat!