It’s no secret…science is hands-down my favorite subject to teach. There’s something so exciting about introducing new topics and watching students light up during hands-on experiments. My science block is always full of energy, exploration, and meaningful learning.
If you’re looking to bring that same spark to your classroom, here are my must-have science supplies for elementary teachers on Amazon! (Consider this your sign to start that Amazon wishlist for the next school year!)

Essential Science Supplies
1. STEM Magnetic Wands
Magnetic wands are a must in your science closet. They are great to use in your Force and Motion unit, or simply as a way to spark curiosity (a must for all little scientists).
My students love wandering around the room with them and finding all things magnetic.
2. Mineral Specimen Science Kit
Every year, my students LOVE learning about and collecting rocks. This beginner science kit includes 15 different types of rocks for students to investigate.
It’s great to help students classify and identify different types of rocks!
3. Magnifying Glasses
Another great science tool to spark a love for science, observation, and exploration. We use these magnifying glasses in a variety of different units, but I also keep them available during free time and recess.
My students are always using them to get a close-up view of bugs and plants!
4. 28 Pack Safety Glasses in 7 Colors
Safety glasses aren’t only practical; they’re also fun for the kids! As soon as they put these on, they will feel like a professional scientist!
Perfect for teaching science safety at the beginning of the year and then using for every science experiment.
5. Fossil Collection Kit
Fossils are fascinating for every student. When I taught 3rd grade, our fossil unit was always a fan-favorite.
This fossil collection kit comes with 12 pieces and an ID book and is wonderful for hands-on observations, comparisons, and investigations.
6. STEM Force & Motion Activity Set
During our force and motion unit, I always leave this kit out for free play. It allows students to investigate key science concepts such as gravity, inertia, friction, and push/pull in a playful way.
There are 10 included activity cards to give your students ideas and help reinforce the concepts.
7. Life Cycle Kit
Another great kit if you use sensory bins or incorporate educational free time into your day!
This life cycle kit includes 6 species of Life Cycles (butterfly, ladybug, bee, frog, rooster, and bean plant) and corresponding cards to illustrate each.
Although it’s especially great for younger kids, I like to take it out as an intervention tool to help bring the life cycles to life.
8. Sprout & Grow Window Plant Growing Kit
How fun is this window plant growing kit? Your students will be thrilled to watch their plants grow and get an up-close view of all the parts of a plant.
It includes bean and pea seeds, the soil, and step-by-step instructions. Pair it with these plant experiments for a super-engaging unit!
9. Insect Lore Butterfly Garden Kit
A butterfly garden kit is an absolute must-have for you science supplies toolbox (in my not-so-biased opinion).
I love love love teaching all about the butterfly life cycle, and this kit lets your students get a front row seat to the metamorphosis.
10. Liquid Measuring Set
Every elementary classroom should have this liquid measurement set, as it’s a valuable tool for bringing measurement concepts to life.
The containers are durable and clearly labeled, making them great for science experiments or free play.
11. National Geographic Microscope
Having a microscope available in your classroom is a great way to foster curiosity and exploration. It comes with 6 plant cards, 6 rocks and minerals, and blank slides to prepare on your own.
My students are always begging to have a turn!
More Science Supplies & STEM Materials
12. Creative Construction Engineering
Calling all future engineers! A STEM kit is a must in any elementary classroom.
Not only is it great to use during your engineering unit, but I also take it out during indoor recesses and any other free time. It amazes me what the students are able to create!
13. Ring Magnets
Ring magnets are great to have on hand in your science supply closet as they are needed for several different science experiments.
When I teach force and motion, my students always get to create and measure their own magnetic field.
14. Copper Wire
Making an electromagnet is always a favorite science experiment in my class! This copper wire is easy to work with and super affordable.
It can even be cut with regular scissors, making it a science classroom staple.
15. Paper Cups
If you have Makerspace time in your classroom, these paper cups are a must. They are affordable and easy for students to cut, poke holes, stack, etc.
They can also be used in various experiments (such as the milk and cookies lab) throughout the year.
16. Plastic Trays
Although these are technically meant as serving platters, they are one of my favorite hidden gem science tools.
They are perfect for sorting items, observing, and keeping a mess to a minimum.
17. Graduated Cylinders & Beaker Set
When you first start to teach about science safety and tools, graduated cylinders and beakers are sure to be on that list.
This set comes with 5 different-sized beakers and 5 graduated cylinders. They are sturdy and stable, making them perfect for little hands to use!
18. Batteries
Every year, there are multiple times when I need batteries (and I can’t find them anywhere). Adding batteries to your science supply list will definitely come in handy!
Whether you’re students are creating their own electromagnet during your force and motion unit or you need to turn on your TV for an engaging science video, you won’t regret being proactive!
19. Sand
And last but certainly not least (especially in my students’ eyes), sand! Throughout the year, we conduct several labs that require sand.
From teaching about water erosion to fossils, students are always excited when sand is involved in the experiment!
More Science Resources to Use in Your Elementary Classroom!
If you are looking for some done-for-you science units to make your science planning seamless, be sure to check out my year-long 2nd and 3rd-grade science bundles! Or if you just need some supplemental resources to use with the above science supplies!
Visit these posts for lesson ideas and experiments!
- Easy Fossil Experiment for 3rd Graders
- Dollar Store Science Materials for Teaching Force and Motion
- 21 Butterfly Life Cycle Books
- Topographic Map Landform Activity
- Ice Cream in a Bag (Changing Matter Experiment)
Do you have any other must-have science supplies in your elementary classroom? I’d love to hear them and add them to my collection. Leave me a comment below!
