A: During the first 40-45 minutes, the Mad Scientist will engage the children with amazing science demonstrations that are conducted with the help of your birthday child and guests. Some examples of experiments that may be included are: fitting a hardboiled egg into an impossibly small space, melting styrofoam, seeing flash paper disappear and creating bubbling potions with dry ice. During the final 10-15 minutes of the party, the kids will make slime, silly putty or a superball to take home. Adding on a rocket launch or cotton candy will add 10-15 minutes to the length of your party.
Q: How far in advance do I need to book my party?
A: Our party schedule fills up quickly. We suggest that you book well in advance to get the date and time you want. Generally, at least 3 weeks in advance is recommended.
Q: What do I need to do to make a reservation?
A: You can submit your Party Request Form online at any time. You will get a call back within one business day to complete your reservation.You can also call the Birthday Party line at (858) 300-2480 and we’ll be happy to schedule your party over the phone (Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m.). We require a $25 deposit to book your party. We accept either Visa or Mastercard. Your deposit is fully refundable up to 3 business days before your party.
Q: What time can I have my party?
A: On Saturdays and Sundays we have set party times of 11:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. or later. Parties can also be scheduled Monday-Friday at any time. All dates and times are subject to availability.
Q: Do I need to know the number of kids attending my party to book it?
A: No. All we need is an estimate of the number of children you expect to attend. We ask that you plan for the largest number of children expected. There’s no risk. On the day of the party, you will be charged only for the number of kids that actually attend.
Q: Do you have any themed parties?
A: No, we do not offer themed parties. If you have a theme, we can notify the Mad Scientist, and he/she will do his/her best to incorporate your theme into the experiments and language used.
Q: When will the Mad Scientist arrive?
A: The Mad Scientist will arrive at least 15 minutes early to set up. He/she will be ready to start the show at the time you booked. It is best to start your party at least 30 minutes before your Mad Science show is scheduled to start to ensure the Mad Scientist is able to start on time.
Q: What kind of space is needed?
A: The Mad Scientist will bring a 4ft. sq. table. We ask that you have enough space for the Mad Scientist and for your guests to be comfortable as well. The kids can be seated on the floor or on chairs, several feet back from the table.
Q: How much space is needed for the rocket launch?
A: The Mad Scientist will need a medium to large size back yard or open space to launch the rocket.If you are not sure if you have a sufficient space, you can always add the rocket launch and then the Mad Scientist will assess whether or not it is safe to launch the rocket on the day of the party. You will not be charged for the upgrade if the rocket cannot be launched safely.
Q: What do you need from us?
A: We will need access to water for set-up and clean-up and access to electricity for the cotton candy upgrade. Please let us know if your party location will not have either of these.
Q: Once I have scheduled my party, can I make changes to it later?
A: Any changes to your party must be scheduled at least three business days before your party.
Q: Is it okay to have other activities going on while the
Mad Scientist is performing?
A: The Mad Scientist will begin at the scheduled start time and continue until our portion of the entertainment is finished. We will not be able to stop for any other activities (ex. food or cake). Please plan accordingly.
Q: What if it rains the day of my party?
A: If it rains on the day of your party, the Mad Scientist will call to see if there is an alternate indoor location to conduct the party.
Q: Can I have the phone number of my Mad Scientist?
A: We do not provide the Mad Scientist’s personal contact information. If you would like the Mad Scientist to call you on the day of your party, we can make a note for him/her to do so.
Q: Who is included in my party?
A: Our parties are appropriate for 5-12 year olds. Younger siblings generally watch but do not actively participate in the party and should not make a take home project. We determine the number of attendees based on 5-12 year olds.
Q: When do I pay?
A: We require a $25 deposit to book your party. At the end of your party, you will pay the Mad Scientist the remaining balance, plus the amount of goody bags you purchase. You can pay with cash, check, or provide authorization to charge the credit card we have on file.
Q: What is your policy on tipping?
A. If you think your Mad Scientist did a great job, a tip is very muchappreciated.
If you have any other questions, please call us at (858) 300-2480.