MEL Science is a monthly subscription box for ages 5+ who would like to learn more about science and STEM concepts in an exciting way. There are four tracks to chose from with varying recommended age ranges:
- STEM (ages 5 - 10+)
- Physics (ages 8 - 14+)
- Chemistry (ages 10 - 16+)
- Medicine (ages 14 - 99+)
Through hands-on kits, kids can learn about topics such as aircraft, light, hydraulics, and earthquakes, while experiencing real-life applications. Each month contains a new experiment and STEM lesson for kids to dive into, and will contain everything they need to safely and easily complete at home. MEL Science costs $39.90/month; $29.90 per month with an annual subscription.
This is a review of the "Spectrum" box from MEL Physics, which is for ages 8+.
This box was sent to us at no cost for review. (Check out our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we review boxes.)
MEL Science: Spectrum
This physics box includes 3 experiments about colors and light.
Experiment #1 - Colors 101
As usual, the packages were will labeled so it was clear which items went with each experiment. However, each subsequent one builds upon the prior one using both acquired knowledge and supplies. I also found it clever that the box itself was incorporated as a useable part of the experiments (in this case to create a white screen).
The first experiment was with colors. This required assembling a “projector” made of 3 slim flashlights. Once complete, three primary color films could then be used to change the color of the light.
Experiment #2 - Colorful Cube
The second experiment used the color films from experiment #1 plus another identical set to assemble a cube of primary colored films. One of the lights is removed from the projector to experiment with shining the lights through at different angles. This used tiny two sided adhesive squares, which adult help was requested for. They were very small, requiring precision and were quite time consuming to place. My son could have done it on his own, but it was tedious.
My assistance was appreciated. He found this activity “very cool.”
Experiment #3 - Multicolored Shadows
The final experiment upgraded the projector from Experiment #1 by attaching colored film lenses in from of each light. The projector could then be twisted to change the relative angles of the different beams of light. This was his favorite part of this box - using the lights to make multicolored shadows. The dog jumped in to help with this one.
Final Thoughts - Was This Box Worth It?
Yes! The Spectrum box kept my son's attention very nicely. The experiments took roughly 45 minutes total, exactly as noted on the box. Any longer and we likely would have began to lose interest - they were the perfect length.
However, very little information is given, besides basic assembly directions as you progress through the directions/info packet. Sometimes we needed to jump ahead to preview the next steps to understand exactly what we were aiming to do. But very clearly at the end of each experiment is an explanation of the science behind it.
For an “assembly only” experiment box, he found this fun and is excited to be able to continue to use the light projector.
To Wrap Up:
The Cost: $39.90 per month, $29.90 per month with an annual subscription.
Can you still get this box if you sign up today? Yes, this box is still available. From MEL Science:
Your first package will arrive within 2 weeks of registration. Subsequent monthly packages will be delivered within 2 weeks of each monthly charge.
What do you think of MEL Science? Let us know below!
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