Magnets are always fun when used in science experiments and demonstrations. They are fairly inexpensive to buy and can be used in lots of creative ways. We still play with our magnet cars years after making them!
This simple dancing magnet activity uses a basic frame to hold a magnet in place while other magnets make it dance.
You'll need
6 strong paper straws
Elastic bands
String
Instructions
Create a pyramid frame with the straws and magnets.
Tie a piece of string to one magnet and hang it from the centre of the frame.
Place another magnet under the hanging magnet and watch it move.
Place magnets in different places around the frame and watch your swinging magnet dance.
Take a look at my other magnet experiments to learn more about magnetism.
Quick magnet summary
Magnetism is an invisible field. We can't see it, but we can feel it when magnets are placed close to each other.
Magnets have two ends called poles. A north pole and a south pole.
If you put two poles that are the same together, you can feel them pushing each other apart ( they repel each other ). Two different poles attract each other.
Types of magnets
Permanent magnets
These are made from a magnetised material and have a permanent magnetic field.
Electromagnet
Magnets can also be created using electricity. This type of magnet is called an electromagnet. The magnetic field only exists when an electric current is flowing. Electromagnets are helpful as the magnetic effect can be turned on and off.
Rare Earth Magnets
These are very strong magnets made from rare earth elements such as neodymium and samarium.
Last Updated on September 17, 2025 by Emma Vanstone
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