Its British Science Week 2020 so we’ve been trying out the Learning Resources GeoSafari Jr. My First Microscope. As a former science teacher, introducing my own kids to a microscope has been very exciting and I’ve been genuinely impressed by this one by Learning Resources.

What did I like about it?

• ‘Kid Friendly’– Microscopes can be brilliant, interesting and fun but as anyone who’s taught a class of children how to use microscopes will know…they can also be infuriating for kids. This is because it can be difficult to get the image focused, remember which knobs to turn when (and to try not to break anything!). Whilst this microscope isn’t going to offer you the same magnification as the ones found in a science lab, it is very easy for young children to use it independently. It’s also sturdy and less easy to break. This makes it an ideal introductory microscope.

• Inspires Children– The best thing about Learning Resources GeoSafari Jr. My First Microscope is how it has the potential to spark a love of science in young children! The children were absolutely fascinated at what they could see through the microscope and how much bigger it appeared.

• Toy Like Appearance- Looks matter for young children and this microscope, with its bright colours and plastic material, cleverly looks just like a toy! Helping to encourage children to have a go with it.

• Fun! The children loved searching outside for stones, leaves, petals and other ‘treasures’ that they could then put under the microscope to look at. It provided a great opportunity to develop their attention to detail skills and discuss all sorts of science topics from fossils to how plants grow.