BASF's Kids' Lab

Explore the wonders of chemistry in hands-on workshops!

Liberty Science Center and BASF Corporation developed a partnership in 2010 to bring the BASF’s Kids’ Lab program to New Jersey. Since then, more than 12,000 guests have experienced the wonders of hands-on chemistry at LSC via the BASF’s Kids’ Lab. Families become immersed in the adventure of science through interactive hands-on learning and each lab experience supports standards-based chemistry curriculum and multiple learning styles. In addition, this flexible method of delivery encourages focused discussions on technical and scientific careers in chemistry, and science in general. BASF’s Kids’ Lab brings the magic of science to children, parents, and caregivers.

The BASF Kids’ Lab is for children 6-12 accompanied by at least one adult chaperone per 4 children. Participation is FREE with paid LSC admission or membership.

2026 Schedule

Date
 BASF Program Description Times/Quantity
Apr. 18 Freshwater pHun Can you determine if a stream is healthy and clean just by looking at it? Join us and uncover how our behaviors and habits affect the health of our water supply. 11:30, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30
May 2 Bubbles, Bubbles Everywhere

 Did you know that bubbles are made from chemistry? In this experiment, we will make our own bubble solution and explore the scientific properties of bubbles. Continuous attendance from 11:00 - 3:30
May 6
(Community Evening)
Registration Required 		We Dig Soil Embark on a muddy adventure as we dig deep into the world beneath our feet! Join us in discovering the secrets of soil, where tiny creatures make homes, plants grow tall, and mysteries await exploration! Continuous attendance from 5:30 - 8:30pm
May 23 Rainbow Connection Discover the colorful science of separation! In this hands-on session, explore a simple chromatographic technique and watch as the hidden components of a compound mixture reveal themselves before your eyes. Continuous attendance from 11:00 - 3:30
Jun. 6 Playful Polymers Slippery, ooey and gooey… oh my! Explore how polymers behave using some common household ingredients. Your slimy creation is yours to keep. Continuous attendance from 11:00 - 3:30
Jun. 20 Operation Filtration Learn about the process of creating clean water by doing it yourself. Create a sample of dirty water and then try out some interesting processes to clean it up. 11:30, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30
Jun. 27 pHun Factor Lemons and vinegar… Bananas and Baking soda… what do these seemingly weird pairings have in common? Come and explore the pH scale using two very different methods. Do you have a nose for chemistry? 11:30, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30
Aug. 29 Sink or Float Dive in and explore what makes matter, matter. Create a density column using a variety of household materials and see how some common objects stack up. 11:30, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30
Sept. 19 Chemistry Loves Candy Just add water, and watch the sweet surprises unfold. From a new spin of chromatography to levitating letters, these experiments are guaranteed to unwrap the secrets of some of our favorite colorful candy. 11:30, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30
Oct. 3 Chemistry is Bananas What do you have in common with a banana? Put on your gloves and goggles in order to get the answer to this question. You will be rewarded with a firsthand look at an amazing material that makes all life possible. 11:30, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30
Oct. Community Evening
(Date TBD)
 Bubbles, Bubbles Everywhere Did you know that bubbles are made from chemistry? In this experiment, we will make our own bubble solution and explore the scientific properties of bubbles. Continuous attendance from 5:30 - 8:30pm
Oct. 24 Playful Polymers Slippery, ooey and gooey… oh my! Explore how polymers behave using some common household ingredients. Your slimy creation is yours to keep. Continuous attendance from 11:00 - 3:30
Oct. 30
(Member Night) 		Happy Hands How important are emulsions? Let’s make our very own hand lotion while learning about emulsifiers and the chemistry that goes on behind it all! Continuous attendance from 5:30 - 8:30pm
Nov. 7 Keep it Cool Join us as we explore how materials like fluffy cotton and shiny foil can keep our drinks icy cold or piping hot while we discover more about these fascinating insulators! Continuous attendance from 11:00 - 3:30
Dec. 26 Energy Loves Produce Get ready to power up with fruits and veggies in this electrifying experiment! Join us as we harness the natural energy of produce to light up bulbs! 10:30 - 12:30 / 1:30 - 4:30
Dec. 27 Energy Loves Produce Get ready to power up with fruits and veggies in this electrifying experiment! Join us as we harness the natural energy of produce to light up bulbs! 10:30 - 12:30 / 1:30 - 4:30
Dec. 28 Energy Loves Produce Get ready to power up with fruits and veggies in this electrifying experiment! Join us as we harness the natural energy of produce to light up bulbs! 10:30 - 12:30 / 1:30 - 4:30