Ten Cheap Science Resources

There are lots of cheap and free science resources out there. Here are 10 cheap science resources that we have enjoyed.

National Geographic Kids Website – National Geographic Kids has so much information and so many fun activities!
I love the NASA website. There are several areas we use a lot:
- Space Place
- NASA Image of the Day – Obviously, there are photos of space, but you’ll also meet astronauts and other scientists who work at NASA.
- NASA TV
Local Nature Centers – Who doesn’t like free field trips? Most local nature centers are free and full of science information. We have a couple near us with exhibits, trails and free or cheap classes.
Animal Rescue Centers – I am thinking specifically of sea turtle rescue centers and birds of prey rescue centers. We love visiting the one in North Carolina. Google “Raptor rescue center United States” to find a center near you.
Sea Turtle Rescue Centers – If you are on the eastern seaboard or planning a visit, I HIGHLY recommend visiting a sea turtle rescue center. While these are not free, some do offer free nest walks. Here are some we have visited and absolutely loved:
Ellen McHenry’s Basement – A Homeschool Scientist facebook fan shared this treasure trove of science with us- Ellen McHenry’s Basement. I’ve just started to look into it. So far, I’ve found experiments and lesson ideas for science, geography, math and more!
Our Free Downloads here at The Homeschool Scientist – I am partial to the units we put togther. I absolutely LOVE creating these resources and offering almost all of them for free.
Facebook groups where you can buy and sell used curriculum.
National Wildlife Refuges – Honestly, these are amazing resources. We drove from Tampa, Florida to Key West and back up the east coast of Forida and stopped at 18 different National Parks and National Wildlife Refuges. There are so many fun visitor centers at these locations. Many of the smaller centers are staffed by volunteers who are passionate about the area and the wildlife that live there. Don’t forget to buy a National Park Passport and get your stamps. Check out the ones in your home state and, if you are taking a road trip, map out the ones along your route. Many of the wildlife refuges are free. We enjoyed stopping to have a picnic and take photos of the wildlife and fauna. Bring the journals and colored pencils!
Astronomy viewing events hosted by the local astronomy club or observatory. You never know what resources are available in your area until you are teaching either in your homeschool, co-op, or classroom. I discovered two observatories in North Carolina while hunting online for some astronomy-related field trips. My research then led me to an upcoming viewing event hosted by the local astronomy club. The two observatories in our state are closely tied to universities. So, check to see if a local college or university has a small observatory.

What about you? Do you have any cheap science resources to share?