Let’s Be Honest — Science Fairs Favor Wealthy Families

Science Fair Image

I can’t stand science fairs. And I know I’m not alone in this sentiment. It seems every parent I’ve spoken to shares a similar disdain for these events—and for the person who first thought they were a good idea.

My frustration mainly stems from the fact that I often find myself handling these projects myself. Before the purists jump in, let me clarify: Most of us end up doing our kids’ tedious science fair projects. It’s as much a rite of passage for parents as diaper changes or threatening to wash our kids’ mouths out with soap.

And honestly, we brought this on ourselves. Back when we were the ones participating in science fairs, we whined enough that our parents would give in and grudgingly help us build our projects. We thought we’d won the battle, but karma was just waiting until we became the weary parents coaxing a silly bean sprout through a maze while our disengaged kids sit idly by, smearing Cheeto dust in their hair.

One year, a science teacher sent home a letter with a bulleted list justifying the need for science fairs. According to this overly optimistic individual, one of the benefits was the opportunity for bonding with our children while exploring the wonders of the physical world. Most of us would probably prefer to strengthen our family ties by having a movie night or taking a trip to Yosemite than forcing a connection through a high-stress school project with dubious educational value. Just a thought.

Every time science fair season rolls around, I feel sorry for myself. I dread the stress, the arguments, and the need to figure out how to “create my own thermos bottle to test for insulation.” And the financial burden of participating in this exhausting middle school tradition? No thanks.

I shouldn’t complain too much. We are fortunate enough to spend a significant amount on this questionable educational exercise. But what about families who lack those resources?

Some argue that there are plenty of project ideas that won’t require a second mortgage. However, this perspective misses a couple of key points: 1.) Students need a project that sparks their interest, competes well against others, and impresses the judges. What if the budget-friendly options fall short? 2.) No matter how you slice it, that presentation board alone will be pricey.

If a child wants their display board to stand out, they first need to have one. A typical 36”x48” board costs anywhere from $6 to $14, with the lower price likely being a myth. You can buy a pack of 25 for about $80 (which can be stored for future science fairs), but a single board can easily cost closer to $20. Let’s agree that $6 is a steep price, and $20 feels like daylight robbery.

No student can simply slap their A4 results and a few bold headings onto the foam board; that would signal to judges a lack of effort. Remember, the science fair culminates in the actual event, and that tri-fold board is displayed under bright lights for an audience that often comes from affluent backgrounds. Even if a child invents a time machine based on quantum physics, no one will notice if they skimp on the presentation. No kid wants to come in last in the academic equivalent of a beauty pageant.

The seasoned science fair parents suggest using double-sided tape (around $3), photo paper (approximately $8), and colorful cardstock (about $4) to make those pie charts pop. But tradition dictates that students go well beyond the basics, crafting impressive multi-level boards with expertly cut headings. Scissors alone won’t cut it, so we’re looking at investing in paper cutters ($34) or T-bars ($6) and Exacto knives ($7). Add in some die-cut shapes (or create your own with a $229 Cricut!) and unnecessary decorative items, and you’ve got boards ready for competition.

Of course, none of this is strictly necessary, but we experienced parents know exactly what’s expected. By the time that overly elaborate board reaches the gym floor, its cost is certainly unreasonable—if not completely absurd. And remember, we’re only talking about the presentation board.

Let’s face it: science fairs cater to wealthier kids, and research backs this claim. A study from the University of Toronto found that science fairs “favor students from resource-rich backgrounds,” and another study questioned whether all students had an “equal and fair chance” in these competitions (spoiler: they don’t). Honestly, we didn’t need a study to tell us that.

So where do we go from here? In my opinion, we have two choices: 1.) Ensure that all students have equal access to resources (but what middle schooler wants to rummage through a communal cardboard box for a broken glue stick and a couple of inadequate paper punches?); or 2.) Eliminate science fairs altogether.

I propose we do every family a favor—regardless of income—and put an end to the much-maligned science fair once and for all. Future generations of kids who aren’t headed for careers in science (and their parents) will surely thank us.

For more insights on related topics, check out this piece on home insemination kits, or explore Make A Mom for expert advice on home insemination. Another helpful resource is the CDC’s pregnancy page.

Search Queries:

Summary:

Science fairs often favor families with financial resources, putting pressure on parents to provide elaborate projects. Many parents end up doing the work themselves, and the costs can be prohibitive. The author argues for either equal resource access for all students or for abolishing science fairs altogether, suggesting that future generations would benefit from this change.

Keyphrase: science fairs and socioeconomic factors

Tags: [“home insemination kit” “home insemination syringe” “self insemination”]