Q. Is this like a magic show?
A. NO! We want to show the kids the DIFFERENCE between magic and science. Sure, magic is fun - and, in fact, we start the show with a magic trick - but with science there are no secrets! We as Mad Scientists get to tell everyone how everything works! We'll do lots of fun, visually interesting experiments, with plenty of opportunities for helpers (usually the birthday child)! Our inquiry-based presentation ensures that the show isn't a lecture. We want the kids to tell US what's going to happen. We pose problems and "what-ifs" and let THEM work out hypotheses that WE test out.
Q. What does my birthday child get (aside from the coolest party ever)?
A. During the show, our Mad Scientists seem to call on Birthday Children for help a lot. Go figure! Plus, they'll have the very same take-home activity as everyone else! After the show, the Birthday Child gets one more surprise - a large, full-color Mad Science Poster that each guest can autograph! Plus one last gift for the the Birthday child, a Mad Science Goody Bag!
Q. What do the kids get to do?
A. Kids love the opportunity to show off what they know or what they think will happen next. Unlike a magic show, we encourage kids to tell us what they think is going to happen! In addition to the constant audience interaction, and the occasional helper during the show, all the kids will get to make something to take home. That may be Mad Science Slime or Mad Science Putty that you have selected when booking the party!
Q. What age levels are the shows appropriate for?
A. Kindergarteners through 6th-graders tend to get the most out of our Birthday Parties, but younger or older kids will certainly have a blast. Younger kids will love what they see and older kids will love learning WHY things happen. The Mad Scientist will always tailor the Party to the age group - giving older kids a bit more explanation than with a younger group.
Q. How much space do I need?
A. Enough for your guests to be comfortable as well as a small area in which the Mad Scientist can perform. The Mad Scientist works off of a table, which we ask you to provide (see the next question). The show itself takes place in front of the table. The take-home activity making can either be done on the floor (we bring a floor cover) or at a separate table, whichever you prefer.
Q. What does the Mad Scientist bring and what do I need to provide?
A. We bring all of the necessary materials. All we ask from you is:
- A table. Card table-size or larger is fine (though larger is better).
- Access to electricity(for some parties).
- Access to running water. (This does not have to be in the same room, we may need to fill a container).
- If possible, a room or area which can be darkened somewhat. (This will enhance some of the experiments depending on party).
- Lots of kids ready to have fun!
Q. Where do you hold your parties?
A. We come to your location. Most people do the party at their home; others will rent a space at a community center or YMCA or even the childs school classroom.
Q. How much preparation time does the Mad Scientist need?
A. The Mad Scientist will arrive at your home (or other party location) about 15 minutes before showtime. We recommend that the showtime be scheduled for sometime after the official party start time. We don't want anyone to miss anything!
Q. How long is the show?
A. The show, including the take-home activity, lasts about 45-60 minutes and may depend slightly on the number of kids. Each add-on typically adds 15-20 minutes to the show, depending on the activity.
Q. Is this going to make a big ol' mess or what?
A. Nope! The Mad Scientist cleans up after themselves when they are done! You won't even know they've been there! (Except the kids will be much happier than they were before the show.) The Mad Scientist will have a table cover for the show table and a floor cover for the activity area. The Mad Scientist will pack up all of their materials and carry any trash out with them.
Q. Are these experiments safe?
A. You better believe it! As much as we want kids to have fun, it's even more important to us that they be safe. Most of what we use are household items used in new and creative ways. Some experiments may use small flames but these are for the Mad Scientist only - which, of course, is made perfectly clear!
Q. How far in advance should I book the party?
A. We recommend booking 3-4 weeks in advance to get the time and day you are looking for.
Q. Is there a deposit to reserve my party time and theme?
A. No, there is no deposit required to book your Party. Parties are not confirmed booked until a Mad Science Specialist has contacted you. The Mad Scientist will arrive with an invoice. The invoice will represent your balance due. You will settle the bill with the Mad Scientist after the party is over with a check. We suggest having the check ready for the Mad Scientist since it will save you time and the Mad Scientist who will be off to do another party.
Q. Could we do even more stuff if we wanted to add more?
A. Well....OK! For an additional fee, we can customize your party with any combination of optional add-ons. Add-ons lengthen your party with anything from additional experiments to extra take-home activities. Choose as many as you like! Makes a great finale! Check out our Awesome Party Add-Ons for detailed information.
Q. What about goody bags and decorations and stuff, huh?
A. Funny you should ask. We offer all sorts of cool stuff to complete the Mad Science theme! Party Extra goods can include:
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Fully Stocked Goody Bags - Mad Science take-homes for all party guests! Remember Birthday Child's Goody Bag is Complementary.
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Invitations - with envelopes
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Mad Science T-shirts - for your party guests!
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Experitube Containers - test tubes for small favors!
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Other Items - Inquiry with the Mad Science Specialist
Q. Tell me more about the Hovercraft Add-On?
A. The Hovercraft Add-on allows each of the party guests a turn to ride the hovercraft. The hovercraft is powered by a leaf blower which is placed into the Mad Science wooden disc and once turned on raises the hovercraft about 2-3 inches off the ground so it can easy hover over the floor. The hovercraft can only be used on a wooden floor or smooth concrete flooring such as a basement or garage floor. It cannot be done on driveways or wooden decks. The best way to visualize this is to image the child on a giant hockey puck floating an inch or two across the floor. Kids have a blast!
Q. Can I tip the Mad Scientist?
A. Yes! We ask that if you would like to tip the Mad Scientist that you do so separately. Generally speaking, gratuity is about 15-20%.
Q. Is there really educational value?
A. Absolutely! While the kids may not themselves be aware that they are learning, the parents certainly are. Our Birthday Parties are based on the same teaching methods and materials used in our classroom programs, but with even more entertainment thrown in. Aside from the specific material covered, the kids will become very familiar with the concepts of observation, hypotheses, and experimentation.
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