Here’s a kit list to help you get ready for Whizz Pop Bang 132 (which you can find in our shop now).
Here’s the list of bits and pieces you need to complete the activities this month. As ever, there’s so much science fun to be had, even if you don’t have every single thing on the list.
WILL IT FLOAT? (page 7) ❏ A collection of objects, for example: oranges, sticky tack or modelling clay
MAKE YOUR OWN ICEBERG (page 9) ❏ A cup or bag of water, frozen ❏ A whiteboard pen, sticker or sticky tack
WHAT MAKES IRON AND STEEL RUST? (page 11) ❏ Three sealable containers (e.g. jam jars) ❏ Three identical iron nails (not galvanised) ❏ Water that has been boiled and cooled ❏ Vegetable oil
PADDLE BOAT (page 16) ❏ A clean plastic food tray (ideally black) ❏ Another piece of plastic packaging (ideally black) ❏ Five elastic bands ❏ Two pencils ❏ Sticky tack ❏ A scrap of plastic bag at least 9 cm by 12 cm ❏ A paper straw
MAKE YOUR OWN MINI HOVERCRAFT (page 25)
❏ Sticky tack or modelling clay ❏ Pull up drinks bottle top ❏ An old CD ❏ A balloon
Download a printable version of this kit list to stick on your fridge right here ⬇️
Cheltenham Science Festival returns from 2–7 June 2026 with six days of hands-on science, inspiring talks, free family activities and brilliant live shows for curious kids. Whether your child loves space, dinosaurs, inventions, gaming or experiments that fizz and bang, there’s something to spark their imagination.
For more details on the Cheltenham Science Festival and to book tickets, visit the official website.
Cheltenham Science Festival 2026 at a glance
📅 Dates: 2–7 June 2026 📍 Location: Imperial Gardens and venues across Cheltenham 👨👩👧 Best for ages: The whole family! Ideal for 4–12+ 🎟️ Free activities available: Yes 🧪 Includes: live science shows, workshops, interactive zones and hands-on experiments 🌦️ Good for drop-in visits: Yes
Big Bug Show – the science of insects, told by a poet and a musician. 7+
2. Free Things To Do at Cheltenham Science Festival
From science games to hands-on invention hubs, explore these free drop-in areas that are open all weekend:
Free family events at Cheltenham Science Festival on Saturday 6th June 2026
Free family events on Saturday – discover what’s on at the Jetstream in Imperial Gardens, Montpelier, Cheltenham on Saturday 6th June 2026
10.00–11.00am: Family Physics Singalong (All ages) Musical theatre and science collide in this fun family workshop with STEM musical theatre writers Helen Arney, Brian Mackenwells and Jenni Pinnock.
11.30am–12.00pm: Marvellous Mocktails (All ages) Expect demos, taste tests and fascinating science facts as Mark Miodownik explores the science behind fizzing, popping and banging drinks.
12.30–1.30pm: A STEM Musical: The Cambridge First All-Ladies Fire Brigade (All ages) A fiery musical adventure inspired by real-life women scientists studying at Girton College in the 1880s.
Free family events at Cheltenham Science Festival on Sunday 7th June 2026
Free family events on Sunday – discover what’s on at the Jetstream in Imperial Gardens, Montpelier, Cheltenham on Sunday 7th June 2026
Sunday 7th June 2026
10.30–11.00am: From One Tiny Cell (Age 7+) FameLab winner Tammy Lee explores how a single tiny cell grows into a human being through interactive challenges and fascinating science.
11.45am–12.30pm: Science Stinks! (All ages) Discover the disgusting, surprising and hilarious science of smells in this fun family show.
1.00–2.00pm: The Next Generation of FameLab Watch talented young science communicators bring science to life with exciting talks full of energy and big ideas.
2.30–3.30pm: The Future of Science Three global FameLab storytellers take to the stage for an inspiring afternoon of science, storytelling and discovery.
For engineers-in-training: ⚒️ Tinker in the MakerShack
For curious thinkers: 🧠 Dive into discovery in the Discover Zone
For gamers: 🕹️ See the science behind the games in The Arcade
For gadget fans: ✈️ Explore cutting-edge tech in The Flight Deck
Other UK Science Festivals to Explore
Can’t make it to Cheltenham? Here are other science festivals across the UK that offer family-friendly activities:
The Big Bang Fair – 9th – 11th June 2026, Birmingham. This event showcases STEM careers and interactive exhibits for young people.
Edinburgh Science Festival – Offers a diverse programme of activities, including experiments, shows, and discussions suitable for all ages. The next festival will be held in 2027 – check their site for dates of the next Edinburgh Science Festival.
Oxford Science and Ideas Festival – Combines science with arts and culture, providing a unique experience for families. The next festival will be held in 2027 – check their site for dates of the next Oxford Science and Ideas Festival.
Norwich Science Festival The next Norwich Science Festival will be held on 12 – 18 February 2027. Visit their site for more information.
Note: Please check each festival’s official website for the latest information on dates and programmes.
Brace yourself… this one is not for the squeamish.
To celebrate the gloriously gross new Whizz Pop Bang: POO! issue, we’ve put together the ultimate bundle of squishy, stretchy, slightly disgusting fun.
And yes… we really mean it when we say…
🤢 You could WIN a real poo!
(OK, it’s a fossilised dinosaur poo – also known as a coprolite – but still. That’s pretty amazing, right?)
🎁 What’s in the Icky Sticky Goody Bag?
One lucky winner will get their hands on this brilliantly bonkers bundle:
🟢 Two pots of slime – one green and gooey, one colour-changing
🐛 A wiggly worm toy
It’s squishy. It’s silly. It’s a bit gross. And kids are going to absolutely LOVE it.
🧪 Why all the poo?
Because poo is seriously scientific.
Inside your body, digestion is hard at work breaking down food, absorbing nutrients and producing waste. Animal poo can tell scientists incredible stories, from what dinosaurs ate to how ecosystems worked millions of years ago.
So while this bundle might seem a bit ridiculous, it’s actually packed with curiosity, learning and laugh-out-loud fun.
🏆 How to enter
Entering is easy! Simply answer this question to be in with a chance of winning:
Perfect for curious readers who love space, science fiction and fast-paced stories, this is a book they won’t want to put down!
🚀 About the book
Step into a universe of adventure at Star Quest Academy, where young recruits are trained to explore the stars and take on daring missions beyond Earth.
The Easter holidays are a wonderful time for family adventures, but they can also bring the familiar challenge of two whole weeks to fill with activities.
Parents often find themselves searching for Easter holiday activities for kids that are fun, educational and easy to set up. And when the weather turns rainy (as it often does in the UK!), screen-free activities become even more valuable.
If you’re looking for creative, science-inspired ways to keep children entertained this Easter, we’ve put together some brilliant ideas.
Why Screen-Free Activities Matter During the Holidays
School holidays often lead to a big increase in screen time. While digital entertainment can be useful in small doses, many families prefer to balance this with activities that encourage:
creativity
curiosity
problem-solving
family interaction
Hands-on activities, like experiments, crafts and puzzles, help children learn while they play. They also create moments families can enjoy together.
If you’re looking for an Easter gift idea that lasts longer than chocolate, the Whizz Pop Bang Family Activity Bundle is designed to keep children entertained throughout the holidays.
This special bundle includes four fantastic books and magazines packed with science, creativity and laughter.
Discover Whizz Pop Bang’s new family activity bundle
Inside you’ll find:
Whizz Pop Bang: Amazing Grazing
A fascinating science magazine exploring the surprising world of grasses. Children can investigate plant science, try hands-on experiments and discover amazing facts about nature.
Perfect for curious readers aged 6 to 12.
Hoopla: Deep Blue Sea
Our sister magazine Hoopla is designed for younger explorers aged 4 to 9.
In this ocean-themed issue, children can enjoy pirate games, creative crafts and fun ocean activities.
The Whizz Pop Bang Science Joke Book
With 200+ science jokes, this book is perfect for car journeys, rainy afternoons and family giggles around the table.
The Whizz Pop Bang Snip-Out Science Book
A hands-on activity book with 30 creative projects to cut, stick and build, from flying machines to moving skeletons.
Why Families Love the Family Activity Bundle
Many families have children of different ages, which can make it tricky to find activities everyone enjoys. This bundle is designed with that in mind. It includes:
✔ Something for older children ✔ Something for younger siblings ✔ Science-based and creative activities to do together ✔ Jokes and puzzles the whole family can enjoy
It’s a wonderful way to bring science, creativity and laughter into the Easter holidays.
A Perfect Alternative to Chocolate Easter Gifts
Chocolate eggs are a classic Easter tradition – but they tend to disappear quickly! Many parents and grandparents are now looking for Easter gifts that inspire creativity and curiosity.
Give the gift of curiosity
A magazine or activity book can provide hours of discovery, making this bundle a thoughtful and lasting Easter surprise.
Easy Easter Holiday Activities to Try at Home
If you’re planning some simple Easter holiday activities, here are a few ideas to try with children:
Plant some seeds and watch them grow – it’s one of the easiest ways to see science in action in your own home or garden. Discover how to grow a grass pet here!
What are some screen-free Easter holiday activities for kids?
Hands-on activities such as science experiments, crafts, puzzles and creative projects are great screen-free options. Magazines and activity books can also provide structured activities children can enjoy independently or with family.
What is a good Easter gift for children besides chocolate?
Many families choose educational gifts like science magazines, activity books or craft kits. These gifts encourage curiosity and creativity while providing entertainment throughout the holidays.
What age is Whizz Pop Bang magazine for?
Whizz Pop Bang is designed for children aged 6–12 and is packed with experiments, puzzles and science stories.
What age is Hoopla magazine for?
Hoopla magazine is aimed at younger children aged 4–9 and focuses on creativity, crafts, nature and mindful activities.
Love whales, dolphins and life beneath the waves? Then you’re in for a treat because this month’s edition of Whizz Pop Bang, Undersea Explorers, is all about the ocean. But that’s not all… we’re also giving our fans the chance to win one of five copies of Mysteries of Marine Mammals by Amandine Delauney – a beautifully illustrated guide to whales, dolphins and porpoises.
What is Mysteries of Marine Mammals about?
Written and illustrated by Amandine Delaunay, Mysteries of Marine Mammals is a stunningly illustrated exploration of the ocean’s most fascinating mammals.
Inside, young readers will discover:
🐋 How whales communicate across vast ocean distances
🐬 The differences between dolphins and porpoises
🌊 How marine mammals survive in icy waters
🧠 The surprising intelligence of ocean giants
🫁 Why mammals breathe air – even underwater ones
It’s a brilliant example of a science book for children that combines real biology with engaging artwork and accessible explanations.
Who is this book suitable for? This book is ideal for children aged around 7 to 11 who enjoy ocean life, animals and science.
Do I need to be a Whizz Pop Bang subscriber to enter? No – this competition is open to all readers.
When does the competition run? The giveaway runs from 1 March to 31 March 2026.
Good luck, Undersea Explorers!
We love sharing science books for kids that inspire curiosity about the natural world. Whether you’re fascinated by breaching whales or deep-diving dolphins, this giveaway is your chance to explore the ocean’s most remarkable mammals.
Looking for a children’s science book giveaway packed with curiosity, humour and real STEM ideas? We’re giving Whizz Pop Bang readers the chance to win one of five copies of Zombie Spiders and Asteroid Blasters – a fun, fact-filled science book that uses wild “what if?” questions to explain real physics, biology and space science to curious children aged 8–12.
What’s Zombie Spiders and Asteroid Blasters all about?
Written by science communicator Maynard Okereke, this brilliantly bonkers book takes ideas that sound impossible and explores them using real science.
Inside, readers will discover:
🧠 Whether zombies could ever exist
🕷️ What it would really take to create giant spiders
☄️ How scientists might stop an asteroid hitting Earth
🚀 The science behind sci-fi films, games and comics
Each chapter starts with a big, imaginative question and breaks it down using clear explanations, humour and evidence, helping children think like real scientists.
Why Whizz Pop Bang readers will love it
This is exactly the kind of book that appeals to curious Whizz Pop Bang fans:
🔬 A fun science book for kids who love asking “how does that work?”
📖 Easy to dip into – perfect for reluctant readers and confident readers alike
🤯 Encourages critical thinking and problem-solving
🎮 Ideal for fans of sci-fi, gaming and STEM
It’s a fantastic example of a STEM book for children that makes big ideas exciting and accessible.
How to enter this children’s science book giveaway
To be in with a chance of winning one of 5 copies, simply answer this question in the comments:
Which of these is a real type of spider?
A) Black belt spider B) Hairy toed spider C) Happy-bum spider
Who is this book suitable for? This book is ideal for curious children aged around 8–12 who enjoy science, sci-fi and asking big questions.
Do I need to be a Whizz Pop Bang subscriber to enter? No – the competition is open to all Whizz Pop Bang readers.
Is this competition open internationally? No, this giveaway is open to UK entries only.
Good luck!
We love sharing science books for kids that spark curiosity, stretch imaginations and show how exciting real science can be. Good luck to everyone entering – and keep asking brilliant (and slightly bonkers) questions! 💥🔍
Hooray, it’s Bonfire Night! Here’s a super fun experiment you can do indoors with little ones!
To create your own indoor fireworks display (and investigate surface tension at the same time), you just need some full fat milk, gel-based food colouring, a cotton bud, some liquid soap and a plate. Oh, and a willing helper and Whizz Pop Bang’s ‘Fireworks on a plate’ instructions, of course! Here’s what you need to do – keep scrolling to download a PDF of this activity.
Ready for a roarsome adventure? Our friends at Build Your Own have given us FIVE incredible Tyrannosaurus Rex cardboard model kits for Whizz Pop Bang fans to win!
This stunningly designed 38cm-long T-Rex model is full of character and detail – from gnashing jaws to a swishing tail. Kids will love constructing it themselves using cleverly engineered slot-together pieces. No glue, no mess, just satisfying, hands-on building fun.
Made from sustainable cardboard with plastic-free packaging, this eco-friendly STEM toy is a brilliant way to explore engineering, dinosaurs and creativity all in one.
With 46 press-out parts and simple instructions, this kit is perfect for curious dino fans.
Simply answer the question in the comments below:
What does the name Tyrannosaurus Rex mean? A) Three-horned king B) Tyrant lizard king C) Fast-footed hunter
The fun begins as soon as you open the box. Press out then slot together 61 cardboard parts (no glue required!), add two elastic bands and you’ll soon have one fully working pinball machine. The build should take around 60 minutes and is suitable for engineers-in-training aged 8 and up.
Once it’s ready, load up the five swirly glass marbles and see if you can make them fly up the ramp, through the bumpers and round the vortex cone! Challenge your family to see who can get a high score on your very own DIY pinball machine!
This eco-friendly STEM kit is: ✅ Designed for ages 8+ ✅ Mess-free and fun to build ✅ Perfect for developing dexterity and reflex skills ✅ Made in the UK using high-quality sustainable cardboard
Whether you’re building it as a family project or battling it out for the best score, you’ll love every minute.
How to enter
To be in with a chance of winning one Build Your Own Pinball Machine kit, simply answer this question in the comments below:
Which of the below is a category of energy?
a) Kimchi b) Kindred c) Kinetic
This competition closes at midnight on 30th September 2025. One lucky winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries. For full terms and conditions, click here.
