What we like about it: It’s up to you to build the volcano in this kit! Create a volcano frame using string and cardboard, cover it in a plaster cast, and then paint it to look like a real volcano. This is certainly a more labor-intensive kit, but well worth the time and effort. As an added bonus, the kit includes lava “glow” paint, which you can use to create an eye-catching glow-in-the-dark lava flow!

What we like about it: National Geographic has a reputation for creating excellent STEM toys, and this classic volcano experiment is no exception. We like that the kit includes three genuine volcanic specimen – an obsidian arrowhead, pumice and geode. Why not do some research on these specimen to find out how they formed?! Not all volcanoes are found on the surface of the earth. In fact, volcanologists believe that there are over 1 million volcanoes located deep down under water! These volcanoes are also called submarine volcanoes. The National Geographic kit includes a plastic mold and plaster mix for you to create your own, paintable volcano. Once the plaster cast has dried, add the eruption powder and watch that lava flow! What we like about it: This isn’t your average styrofoam volcano. This one is a sturdy plastic model that can be opened up to show the cross section of a volcano. The various layers and components are all labeled, and there is a washable “lava chamber.” This kit is an excellent resource for budding volcanologists.COMPLETE SCIENCE KIT - Includes absolutely everything you need to create a volcano, paint it, and even make it erupt!

If you’re interested in teaching your kids the basics of volcanoes, then keep reading! We’ve created a mini lesson on all things volcanoes, and even provided some suggestions on how to engage your child in this topic. Scroll down further, and you’ll find directions for making your own underwater volcano! Have a blast! HOMESCHOOL CLASSIC - This is a classic STEM project that teaches kids about chemistry, geology, and earth science. It is a proven home-school lesson your child will love! Cast your own volcano with the plaster and mold included, paint it how you want it to look with the provided paint and brush and then make your volcano erupt with the eruption powder! A fantastic family activity, with hours of fun for all ages. COMPLETE VOLCANO SCIENCE KIT – Includes everything you need to build a volcano, paint it, and make it erupt; the improved mold, brush, and paints make it easier than ever to create a show-stopping volcano Lava isn’t the only thing that shoots out during a volcanic eruption. Billowing clouds of poisonous gas and ash explode out, reaching heights of up to 40 km! In 2011, the Grímsvötn volcanic eruption in Iceland produced so much ash that airlines had to cancel over 1000 flights across Northwestern Europe for almost a week. Are There Different Types of Volcanoes?

Like the Thames and Kosmos kit, your kids can enjoy multiple eruptions with this model from Learning Resources. This volcano model is just under 12 inches tall, and comes with a handy spill tray and learning guide. MAKING SCIENCE FUN - The perfect hands-on experiment for any science fair. Includes National Geographic's learning guide so you can write an A+ report MAKING SCIENCE FUN – A great hands-on experiment for any science fair with multiple volcano experiments to try; the updated mold is easy to assemble and holds the plaster securely to create a sturdy volcano form and more realistic paint colors give the volcano a lifelike look Volcano kits are one of those STEM toys with widespread appeal. They’re easy to do, exciting, and best of all, they’re messy! And let’s be honest, it’s the mess that really speaks to us! In the spirit of embracing this explosive science experiment, we’re reviewing some of the best erupting volcano toys around! From basic volcano making kits to more in depth educational sets, we’ve got something for everyone!