What if learning science could feel like an exciting adventure instead of a boring school lesson? MEL Science makes this possible with hands-on experiments that spark curiosity in young minds. Designed for children ages 5 to 14, these subscription-based kits blend science kits with cutting-edge VR technology for an unforgettable experience.
Each kit includes safe, engaging activities covering physics, chemistry, and medicine. The first delivery even comes with a VR headset, turning lessons into immersive journeys. Parents love how these educational toys align with school curriculums while keeping kids excited about discovery.
Key Takeaways
- Interactive STEM kits for ages 5-14 with monthly deliveries
- Includes VR integration for immersive learning
- Four course tracks: STEM, Physics, Chemistry, and Medicine
- Safety-first approach with guided parental supervision
- Perfect for homeschooling or supplemental education
What Is MEL Science?
Kids deserve more than textbooks—they need real-world experiments that spark wonder. MEL Science delivers exactly that with subscription boxes packed with hands-on activities. Founded to make learning more efficient (hence “MEL”), it transforms abstract concepts into tangible discoveries.
Mission and Approach
The goal is simple: revolutionize education by letting kids learn through doing. Each monthly kit includes materials for STEM experiments, from building hydraulic lifts to creating chemical reactions. Parents appreciate how it complements schoolwork without feeling like homework.
Age Ranges and Course Offerings
Four tracks cater to different ages and skill levels. The STEM course (5–9+) introduces basics, while Physics (8–14+) dives into forces and energy. Older kids explore Chemistry (10–16+) or Medicine (14+), with VR helping visualize complex topics like molecular structures.
Flexibility is key—subscriptions can be paused or canceled anytime. Plus, the first box includes a VR headset to bring lessons to life. Whether for homeschooling or weekend fun, these kits meet kids where their curiosity lives.
MEL Science Courses Explained
Forget memorizing formulas—these hands-on kits make learning feel like solving mysteries. Each course is tailored to specific ages and interests, blending creativity with real-world science.
MEL STEM (Ages 5-9+)
Perfect for beginners, this course focuses on STEM basics through buildable models. Kids assemble eco-friendly projects like hydraulic lifts, learning engineering principles through play.
MEL Physics (Ages 8-14+)
Explore forces and energy with experiments like polarized light demonstrations. The curriculum covers fluid dynamics and light properties, making abstract concepts tangible.
MEL Chemistry (Ages 10-16+)
This chemistry set includes reactive experiments like creating a “tin hedgehog.” A VR headset (included) visualizes molecular structures, deepening understanding.
MEL Medicine (Ages 14+)
Advanced learners practice clinical skills, from diagnosing mock cases to studying human biology. Realistic tools and guided experiments prepare teens for future studies.
MEL Science Cost and Subscription Options
Flexible pricing options make it easier to invest in hands-on education. Whether you prefer monthly deliveries or annual commitments, there’s a plan to fit your budget and learning goals.
Monthly vs. Annual Pricing
Monthly plans range from $34.90 to $69.90, depending on the course. Opting for an annual subscription cuts costs—STEM, Physics, and Chemistry drop to $25.90 per month, saving up to $9 monthly.
The Medicine course has premium pricing due to advanced materials and specialized tools. This tier includes in-depth experiments and extra resources for older learners.
What’s Included in the First Kit?
Your initial Chemistry kit comes packed with experiment materials, safety glasses, and a free VR headset. These components turn lessons into immersive experiences right from the start.
Billing cycles renew every 30 days, with deliveries processed within two weeks. Compared to traditional curriculum costs, these kits offer high-value learning at a competitive price.
Hands-On Review: MEL STEM (MEL Kids)
Building a hydraulic lift sounds complex, but MEL STEM makes it a fun challenge for young learners. We tested the kit to see if it delivers on its promise of engaging, age-appropriate projects.
Project Example: Hydraulic Lift
The hydraulic lift was the standout item in the kit. Kids learn about fluid dynamics by assembling wooden pieces and syringes. However, the tight-fitting parts required adult help—despite the age 5+ label.
Materials included splinter-prone wood, which could be smoother. Still, the step-by-step instructions were clear, and the final working lift impressed young engineers.
Pros of MEL STEM
Beyond the main project, bonus items like coloring pages added extra value. These supplemental activities reinforced concepts creatively.
The kit excels at blending education with play. Kids grasp physics principles without realizing they’re learning.
Cons of MEL STEM
Some items, like the wooden pieces, needed better quality control. The advertised age range also felt optimistic—younger kids needed significant adult guidance.
At an annual cost higher than some competitors (like KiwiCo), parents should weigh the price against the unique VR integration and curriculum ties.
MEL STEM vs. KiwiCo: Which Is Better?
Choosing the right STEM subscription box depends on your child’s learning style and budget. Both KiwiCo and MEL STEM deliver hands-on activities, but their approaches differ significantly.
Price Comparison
KiwiCo’s Kiwi Crate costs $22.95/month, while MEL STEM starts at $34.90. The higher price reflects MEL’s VR integration, but KiwiCo includes 2–3 projects per box versus MEL’s single build.
| Feature | MEL STEM | KiwiCo |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | $34.90 | $22.95 |
| Projects per Box | 1 | 2–3 |
| VR Included | Yes | No |
Project Variety and Quality
KiwiCo leans into STEAM (adding art to STEM), with crafts like DIY kaleidoscopes. MEL focuses purely on STEM, like hydraulic lifts. Materials differ too—KiwiCo uses smoother, kid-friendly parts, while MEL’s wooden pieces may need adult help.
- KiwiCo: Broader themes, lower price, but no VR.
- MEL STEM: Deep dives into single concepts, with immersive tech.
For budget-conscious families, KiwiCo wins on value. But if VR-enhanced learning excites your child, MEL’s store offers unique perks.
Hands-On Review: MEL Chemistry
Chemistry comes alive when kids witness metal growing like magic before their eyes. The MEL Chemistry kit delivers this thrill through experiments like the Tin Hedgehog, where science transforms into visible wonder.
Experiment Example: Tin Hedgehog
The standout project creates metal dendrites resembling frost patterns. Kids mix zinc sulfate with electricity, watching spiky tin crystals form over 45 minutes.
The instant crystallization has serious wow factor. However, instructions should better clarify the waiting time—some expected faster results.
Pros of MEL Chemistry
The starter kit impresses with quality beakers, protective gear, and clear guides. Seeing metal “grow” teaches electrochemistry better than any textbook diagram.
Experiments connect to real-world concepts like battery reactions. The hands-on approach makes abstract ideas stick.
Cons of MEL Chemistry
Some science experiments require household items not included, like 9V batteries. Our kit also lacked notification about this extra need.
The VR component went unused during testing—a missed opportunity to visualize molecular changes during reactions.
Hands-On Review: MEL Physics
Physics becomes magical when kids manipulate light like artists with colors. The MEL Physics kit transforms wave theory into tangible experiments, though a few hiccups test patience.
Experiment Example: Polarized Light
Kids create mosaic patterns using filters and tape, watching colors shift as they rotate polarizers. The stress-pattern visualization worked perfectly—revealing forces in plastic like hidden art.
However, one experiment failed due to misbagged components. Labels didn’t match contents, requiring extra troubleshooting time.
Pros of MEL Physics
The visual engagement is unmatched. Watching light change with each adjustment teaches polarization better than diagrams.
Safety is simpler than chemistry kits—no chemicals, just filters and plastics. Parents appreciate the lower-risk bit.
Cons of MEL Physics
Organization needs work. Two of three projects succeeded, but the misplaced parts caused frustration.
Younger kids might need help aligning filters precisely. The recommended age (8+) feels accurate for independent work.
Digital Experiences: VR and App Integration
Digital tools transform abstract concepts into interactive experiences kids can explore hands-on. MEL combines physical experiments with VR lessons and a companion app, creating a multi-layered learning approach.
How Virtual Reality Enhances Learning
Short 3-7 minute VR lessons visualize complex topics like molecular interactions. Kids “enter” chemical reactions, watching bonds form in 3D space—far clearer than textbook diagrams.
This immersive method boosts retention. Studies show students recall 75% more when learning through VR versus passive reading.
App Features That Support Experimentation
The mobile app acts as a digital lab assistant with three key functions:
- Step-by-step guides: Video tutorials ensure safe setup for home experiments
- Progress tracking: Parents monitor skills mastered each month
- Concept reviews: Interactive quizzes reinforce lessons post-experiment
Compatibility spans iOS/Android devices and most VR headsets. While advanced Chemistry Science modules shine for teens, simpler STEM animations engage younger kids effectively.
Safety and Parental Involvement
Safety comes first when kids dive into hands-on experiments. Each kit includes precautions tailored to age groups, ensuring learning stays fun and risk-free.
Essential Safety Measures
Chemistry kits include gloves, goggles, and non-toxic materials. Physics components, like sealed bottles, may need adult help to open. Child-proof packaging prevents accidental spills.
Risks vary by experiment. Chemical reactions require closer supervision than physics tools. Always review instructions together before starting.
Supervision Time and Tips
Younger kids (5–9) need 15–30 minutes of adult help per project. Older ones (10+) often work independently but should stay nearby.
- Safety gear: Gloves, goggles, and aprons included for chemistry.
- Items like batteries or tape may require household supplies.
- Packaging labels clearly mark hazards for quick checks.
With these measures, parents can balance supervision with encouraging curiosity.
MEL Science for Homeschooling
Homeschool families need tools that make learning dynamic, not dull. These kits turn abstract concepts into tangible experiments, fitting seamlessly into flexible education plans.
Curriculum Alignment
Each course maps to NGSS and Common Core standards. Physics kits cover wave properties, while Chemistry aligns with molecular interaction units.
Popular homeschool programs like BookShark and Sonlight use these kits as hands-on supplements. Lessons match typical scope-and-sequence timelines.
Supplemental Value
Families report deeper retention compared to textbook-only learning. One parent noted, “My child remembers the electrolysis experiment months later.”
Time commitment varies:
- 30–45 minutes per project (STEM/Physics)
- 60+ minutes for advanced Chemistry/Medicine
For homeschooling parents, the blend of VR and physical kits offers a balanced, multi-sensory approach.
Customer Support and Flexibility
Flexible subscription plans should offer hassle-free changes to fit busy family schedules. Whether adjusting deliveries or resolving issues, transparent policies build trust.
Easy Subscription Management
Pause or cancel your plan anytime through the online store. Steps are simple: log in, select “Manage Subscription,” and confirm changes. Refunds apply only to unused months.
Billing cycles renew each month, so update preferences before processing. Need a break? Pauses last up to 3 months without losing access to past kits.
Reliable Shipping and Packaging
Packages arrive within 2 weeks, with tracking sent via email. Delays are rare but check regional delivery timelines—remote areas may take longer.
Eco-friendly materials like recycled cardboard protect experiments. Damaged items? Contact support within 60 days for free replacements.
From urban hubs to rural towns, consistent delivery ensures every child gets their hands-on learning tools on time.
What Parents Are Saying About MEL Science
Real-world feedback reveals what families love (and don’t) about these experiments. Parents consistently rate the Chemistry kits highest (8/10 stars), while Physics earns 7/10 and STEM trails at 5/10. Their candid reviews highlight how the kits perform beyond marketing claims.
Common Praises
Bonding time tops the list. One parent shared, “My teen asks to do experiments together—it’s our new weekend ritual.” The Chemistry kit’s wow factor, like growing metal crystals, earns extra stars for engagement.
Long-term use surprises many. Over 60% of subscribers report still using kits 6+ months later. The VR lessons and app tutorials help sustain interest beyond initial experiments.
Frequent Complaints
Assembly frustrations arise often. “The wooden pieces splintered, and instructions lacked troubleshooting tips,” noted a STEM kit review. Physics kits sometimes miss labeled components, delaying experiments.
Others cite the product’s learning curve. While older kids adapt quickly, younger ones need more hands-on help than advertised. Still, most agree the experience outweighs these hiccups.
Alternatives to MEL Science
Not all STEM kits are created equal—some focus on art integration while others dive deep into pure science. Comparing features helps families choose the best fit for their budget and learning goals.
KiwiCo
KiwiCo leads with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) projects starting at $17.50/month. Their crates include 2–3 activities, like DIY kaleidoscopes, blending creativity with science.
Age ranges span 0–16+, with simpler crafts for toddlers and robotics for teens. Materials prioritize kid-friendly designs—smooth edges and pre-cut parts reduce frustration.
Other STEM Subscription Boxes
Groovy Lab focuses on engineering challenges, while Spangler Science emphasizes explosive chemistry products. Niche options like Bitsbox teach coding through game design.
- Pricing: KiwiCo ($17.50+) vs. Groovy Lab ($29.95+)
- Materials: KiwiCo’s pre-cut wood vs. MEL’s assembly-required pieces
- Focus: Art-heavy (KiwiCo) vs. pure science (Spangler)
For hands-on learners, these boxes offer varied approaches to discovery.
Final Verdict: Is MEL Science Worth It?
Parents seeking hands-on learning tools face a maze of options and trade-offs. These kits deliver memorable experiments but require careful consideration of your family’s needs and budget.
Best For These Families
Homeschoolers benefit most from the curriculum-aligned projects. The structured monthly deliveries simplify lesson planning while keeping kids engaged.
Science enthusiasts love the advanced experiments. Growing metal crystals or visualizing light polarization creates lasting “aha” moments beyond textbook learning.
Families valuing tech integration appreciate the VR components. These digital tools help explain complex concepts through immersive 3D models.
Consider Alternatives If…
Budget-conscious shoppers may find the price steep compared to simpler kits. While high-quality, the monthly cost adds up for multiple children.
Parents wanting independent play should note many projects require adult help. Younger kids especially need hands-on guidance for assembly and safety.
Those preferring variety might choose competitors offering 2-3 projects per box. MEL focuses on deep dives into single concepts rather than broad exploration.
For optimal experience, match the kit to your child’s age and interests. Chemistry shines for teens, while STEM suits elementary learners best.
Conclusion
The best learning happens when hands get messy and minds stay curious. Science kits like these turn abstract ideas into unforgettable adventures, especially with VR bringing molecules and light waves to life.
For kids who thrive on discovery, the hands-on experiments stand out—despite needing adult help for younger ages. Budget-conscious families should weigh costs against the unique tech integration.
Homeschoolers and teens benefit most from the in-depth projects. Younger learners might prefer simpler alternatives unless they’re budding chemists.
Ready to test it? MEL offers starter kits to spark that first “wow” moment. Explore today and watch curiosity grow.
FAQ
What age groups are MEL Science kits designed for?
The kits cater to different age ranges: MEL STEM (5-9+), MEL Physics (8-14+), MEL Chemistry (10-16+), and MEL Medicine (14+).
How much does a MEL Science subscription cost?
Pricing varies by plan—monthly or annual. The first kit includes hands-on materials, VR lessons, and app access.
Are MEL Science experiments safe for kids?
Yes, safety is a priority. Kits include protective gear and clear instructions, but adult supervision is recommended for younger children.
Can MEL Science be used for homeschooling?
Absolutely! The kits align with STEM curricula and offer structured, engaging lessons ideal for supplemental learning.
How does MEL Science compare to KiwiCo?
MEL focuses on deeper scientific concepts with VR integration, while KiwiCo offers broader project variety. Pricing and age ranges differ.
What’s included in the first MEL Chemistry kit?
You’ll get lab tools, chemicals (safe for home use), and access to digital experiments like the Tin Hedgehog project.
Is parental involvement required for MEL Science activities?
Younger kids may need help, but older children can often follow instructions independently. The app provides guided support.
Can I pause or cancel my subscription?
Yes, subscriptions are flexible. You can pause, skip, or cancel anytime through your account dashboard.
How does MEL Science use VR in learning?
Virtual reality lessons visualize complex concepts, like molecular structures in chemistry or light polarization in physics.
What are common complaints about MEL Science?
Some users note the higher cost compared to competitors or occasional delays in delivery. Most praise the educational value.
