The world around us is surrounded by the thrilling wonders of science. Growing up, be it we
are swinging on a monkey bar, mixing colours for an art project, or even talking to our best
friends using paper cup phones attached to a string, it is science that explains how these
‘magical’ moments are possible.
Since children do not know what they don’t know, it is up to us parents, guardians, and
educators, to intentionally explain the science behind each of these little joys and fill their
minds with knowledge. This also helps to preserve their sense of wonder as they pursue big
questions about the world, even if they are stuck at home due to the pandemic.
Today, we are seeing more young people value science and STEM subjects. Findings from
this year’s 3M State of Science Index (SOSI), an annual, third-party study commissioned by
global science company 3M, echoed this sentiment. In the Asia Pacific region, 73% agree
that young people are more engaged in science and science-related issues than ever before
(vs. 69% globally). Amongst those who believe corporations should be involved in
supporting STEM education, the top action they wanted corporates to prioritize include
creating resources for kids to get involved in science at an early age (46% vs. 44% globally).
To ensure that the appreciation of science remains high, we need to continue fostering
curiosity and encouraging our young ones to unleash their inner scientists. Through this
easy and engaging at-home experiment, you can help contribute to the growth of STEM by
stimulating your child’s mind and having fun in the process.
Be sure to test out the experiment yourselves before trying it with your little scientists as the
activity listed below would require parental supervision.
Blast off with a paper rocket.

Preparing our children for different stages of life may seem like rocket science but let’s take
a step back and enjoy the time we have together with some paper rocket science.

Materials needed: 2 pieces of paper, scissors, drinking straw and tape
In science, we learn that variables may affect the outcome of an experiment. Let’s explore
how different designs can change the way your rocket propels:

1. Fold a piece of paper into four and cut them into smaller rectangles.
2. Take one of the small rectangles and roll it around the straw to make a tube (not too
   tight). Tape the tube you have made so it stays rolled up.
3. Next, pinch and tape one end of the tube to make the nose of the rocket.
4. With a different piece of small rectangle paper, cut some right-angled triangles to
   make fins before taping them onto the tube.
5. Repeat steps to make a few rockets with different tube lengths and/or different
   numbers of fins.
   Place the rocket on the straw and blow for blast off. When you are experimenting, you may realize that some changes make a bigger difference than others. Once you have an idea of what changes are the most important, try designing a rocket that can go the farthest, or fly the most accurately.
   Learn more about this experiment at the 3M Science at Home https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/gives-us/education/science-at-home/
   Find out what other experiments 3M scientists are sharing by watching the videos at the
   Science at Home webpage. Hopefully, these experiments can help inspire your child and
   ignite their passion for science and learning.