NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Mega Science Advent Calendar: Instruction Manual for Model NGSCIADVENT2

Introduction

The NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Mega Science Advent Calendar, Model NGSCIADVENT2, offers an engaging educational experience for children aged 8 years and up. This kit provides 24 days of discovery, combining exciting science experiments with genuine rock and fossil specimens. It is designed to foster curiosity and a love for science through hands-on activities.

Key features include:

• 24 Days of Discovery: Each day reveals a new science experiment or a unique gemstone specimen.
• 13 Fun Experiments: Conduct various experiments such as creating instant snow, growing crystal trees, making glowing test tubes, and revealing secret messages.
• 11 Stunning Specimens: Collect genuine rock and fossil specimens, including carnelian, chevron amethyst, snowflake obsidian, geode, and tiger's eye. A storage pouch is included for the collection.
• Complete Dig Kit: The final day features a mini dig brick to unearth a pyrite (fool's gold) specimen.
• Educational Value: Designed to support STEM learning, promoting education, imagination, and creativity.

What's in the Box

The NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Mega Science Advent Calendar includes the following components:

• 1 Advent Calendar box with 24 individual compartments
• 1 Experiment Guide booklet
• 1 Pair of Safety Goggles
• 1 Dig Tool
• 1 Storage Pouch for specimens
• Various materials for 13 science experiments (e.g., cups, bottles, pipettes, scoops, sodium bicarbonate, citric acid, colorants, instant snow powder, crystal growing solution, glow powder)
• 11 Rock and Fossil Specimens (e.g., carnelian, chevron amethyst, snowflake obsidian, geode, tiger's eye, pyrite)
• Additional learning guide and instructions

Setup

1. Unpack the Calendar: Carefully open the outer packaging of the advent calendar. The calendar itself is designed to unfold, revealing 24 numbered windows.
2. Locate the Experiment Guide: The Experiment Guide booklet is typically found in a designated pocket within the calendar, often marked "Open this window right away!" This guide contains detailed instructions for each experiment and information about the specimens.
3. Identify Initial Tools: The first window to open usually contains essential tools such as safety goggles and a storage pouch for your rock collection. Ensure these items are retrieved before starting any experiments.
4. Prepare Your Workspace: Before beginning any experiment, ensure you have a clean, flat surface. It is recommended to work over a plate or baking sheet to contain any potential mess, especially for experiments involving liquids or powders.
5. Adult Supervision: Always ensure adult supervision when conducting experiments, especially those involving chemicals or small parts.

Operating Instructions

Follow these steps daily to enjoy the full experience of your Mega Science Advent Calendar:

1. Daily Unveiling: Each day, locate the corresponding numbered window on the calendar. Carefully open the perforated flap to reveal the item for that day.
2. Consult the Experiment Guide: Refer to the Experiment Guide for instructions related to the revealed item. The guide will specify whether the item is a science experiment component or a rock/fossil specimen.
3. Conduct Experiments: If an experiment is revealed, follow the step-by-step instructions in the guide. The guide provides clear directions, often with illustrations, and explanations of the scientific principles involved. Ensure all safety precautions, including wearing safety goggles, are followed.
4. Collect Specimens: If a rock or fossil specimen is revealed, identify it using the guide and add it to the provided storage pouch.
5. Bonus Experiments: The calendar also includes a separate guide for 10 bonus science experiments that can be performed using common household items, extending the learning and fun beyond the 24 days.

Official Product Video

Maintenance

• Clean Components: After each experiment, thoroughly clean any reusable components (e.g., cups, beakers, pipettes) with water and mild soap. Allow them to air dry completely before storing.
• Store Chemicals Safely: Keep any remaining chemical powders or solutions in their original sealed packaging, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of young children.
• Organize Specimens: Store collected rock and fossil specimens in the provided pouch or a designated display area to prevent loss or damage.
• Dispose of Waste Properly: Follow local guidelines for disposing of any waste materials from experiments. Do not dispose of chemicals down drains unless explicitly stated as safe in the experiment guide.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues during experiments, consider the following:

• Experiment Not Working: Double-check the instructions in the Experiment Guide. Ensure all measurements are accurate and steps are followed precisely. Sometimes, environmental factors like temperature can affect results.
• Missing Components: Verify all components against the "What's in the Box" list. If a critical component is missing, contact customer support.
• Safety Concerns: If any experiment causes unexpected reactions or discomfort, immediately stop the activity, ensure proper ventilation, and consult the safety information provided.

Specifications

Safety Information

This set contains chemicals that may be harmful if misused. Read cautions on individual containers carefully. Not to be used by children except under adult supervision. Always wear the provided safety goggles when conducting experiments. Keep all chemicals and small parts out of reach of children under 3 years of age due to choking hazards.

Warranty and Support

Specific warranty information for the NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Mega Science Advent Calendar is not provided in the product details. For any product inquiries, missing parts, or support needs, please contact the manufacturer, JMW Sales, Inc., or the retailer from whom the product was purchased. Blue Marble, the brand, states they have a U.S. support team to ensure a stellar experience.