October 1, 2012

Book Review: Albert Einstein and Relativity for Kids

I am all for teaching kids more about science. And this book certainly does just that.  In addition to being a biography on the life and times of Albert Einstein, it also includes little experiments that kids can do that help illustrate some of Einstein’s theories.  There are also short write ups on other great scientists as well.

It is part biography, part text book and part hands on activities. I think that the hands on part is the most important – I could always read all I wanted on different theories but actually seeing it in person in a relevant example was what I needed for things to make sense.

I really like how this book is written and I wish that something like this was around to help me out back when I was in school!  This is a great book if you are looking to supplement your child’s learning of science or even if you are an adult and feel like your knowledge on science is sub-par.

I received a free e-copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in order to write this review.

About the Book

Best known for his general theory of relativity and the famous equation linking mass and energy, E = mc², Albert Einstein had a lasting impact on the world of science, the extent of which is illuminated-along with his fascinating life and unique personality-in this lively history. In addition to learning all about Einstein’s important contributions to science, from proving the existence and size of atoms and launching the field of quantum mechanics to creating models of the universe that led to the discovery of black holes and the big bang theory, young physicists will participate in activities and thought experiments to bring his theories and ideas to life. Such activities include using dominoes to model a nuclear chain reaction, replicating the expanding universe in a microwave oven, creating blue skies and red sunsets in a soda bottle, and calculating the speed of light using a melted chocolate bar. Suggestions for further study, a time line, and sidebars on the work of other physicists of the day make this an incredibly accessible resource for inquisitive children.

Jerome Pohlen is a former elementary school science teacher, an engineer, an editor, and the author of a dozen award-winning science kits, including Famous Experiments,Microscopic World, and Wild Weather. He lives in Chicago.

Product Review: Packaways Reusable Storage Boxes

 

Recently our home was put on the market. In order to get things straightened up for realtor photos and open houses, we’ve been packing some of our “extra” stuff into boxes.  I was sent 2 boxes to try out from their “Classic” line, 2 different sizes one green and one blue.

Packaways is a brand new Storage Box that ships and stores in the flat position. When needed, simply press on opposing corners and the bottom “Automatically” folds into place and locks. When not in use, simply press on the bottom and the box folds back down flat for easy, out of the way storage. Ideal for homes, apartments or living quarters where use is intermitent and space is tight. Many applications: Moving; Back To School; Organizing The Kids’ Rooms; Basement or Garage; Seasonal Items, etc. You can color code your things or have the colors match your decor. Proudly made in the U.S.A. from durable corrugated plastic. Great for harsh storage conditions or long-term storage since moisture and humidity won’t effect the integrety of the boxes. Will last hundreds of cycles under normal circumstances. Many, many useful applications. Comes with 2 Wipe Away Panels that allow you to conveniently identify the contents of the box. If you use China Dry Erase Markers, you can simply Wipe Away the previous contents and remark the box. Please go to www.packaways.com for more information.
The boxes came shipped in a flat box and were super easy to fold into a box – it took me literally seconds to do both of them.  The other great thing about these boxes is that there is no separate top.  With other boxes we’ve been using, you have to create a separate top which can come lose or get lost in all the hustle and bustle of packing up items.  The packaways tops fold down and then you can easily fold them into themselves to keep them closed and secure.  The plastic is also more secure against moisture than the traditional card board boxes.
The boxes are a bit on the expensive side compared to their cardboard counterparts – but when you think about it – the packaways will last much longer, withstand the elements longer, and you’ll never lose the tops!  You can switch out your winter / summer clothes using them, pack to move kids into the dorm, pack for moving or storage, the possibilities are endless and you can continue to reuse these boxes hundreds of times!  (plus, with a variety of colors available you can give each member of your family a different color to easily be able to pick out whos boxes belong to who!)

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free usingTomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

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