If your child loves a bit of science, try the Gastronaut, Stefan Gates’, kitchen science experiments to bring a smile to their faces with veg.
If your child loves a bit of science, try the Gastronaut, Stefan Gates’, kitchen science experiments to bring a smile to their faces with veg.
Fun, play and laughter are key to positive engagement with veg
If your child loves a laugh and a bit of silly science, then engaging with veggies through kitchen science experiments could be a perfect way for them to experience vegetables positively, making it more likely they will eat it.
We roped in the Gastronaut himself, Stefan Gates, for some silly kitchen science experiments and scientific observations you can just watch or do at home. They are affordable and guaranteed to be fun, and range from super super simple to up-for-a-challenge for the more handsy amongst you, too!
Colour-changing cabbage!
Red cabbage is a pH indicator, which means it changes colour when mixed with acidic or alkaline ingredients.
What you’ll need:
Red cabbage, water, lemon juice or vinegar, washing powder
This experiment is a great way to explore colour, curiosity and cause-and-effect, all using veg.
Watch the video to find out how to do it and what happens next!
Radish mice
Turning vegetables into characters helps children feel curious and playful about them.
What you’ll need:
Radishes (with tops if possible), knife, scissors, raisins or peppercorns
This activity is great for exploring shape, creativity and confidence with veg, without any pressure to eat.
Watch the video to see how to make your own radish mice step by step.
Veg that adds colour, smells and gas!
Some vegetables do surprising things once we eat them.
What you’ll need:
Beetroot, asparagus, baked beans (or Jerusalem artichokes if you can find them)
This experiment taps into toilet humour, curiosity and body science, helping kids learn that veg can be funny as well as healthy.
Watch the video to find out what happens and why.
Exploring colour and shape
Vegetables are full of patterns, colours and surprises.
What you’ll need:
Broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, beetroot (or whatever veg you have)
This simple activity encourages hands-on exploration and observation, helping children get comfortable touching and looking closely at veg.
Watch the video to explore veg shapes, colours and patterns together.
Musical carrots!
Yes, vegetables can make music!
What you’ll need:
Large carrot, straw, drill (adult help required)
This is a more advanced experiment that combines science, sound and creativity, showing just how unexpected veg can be.
Watch the video to see how to make a carrot instrument safely.
Stefan Gates
Stefan Gates is a multi-award-winning TV presenter, author, podcaster and science communicator specialising in food and science. He has written 12 books, presented over 20 TV series and staged over 3,000 live stage shows around the world.
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