Insta Inspo: Sergei at @TheDadLab
This issue we’re seeking science inspiration from inquisitive dad of two, Sergei Urban
Having started two years ago, Sergei’s videos of him doing science experiments at home with his two sons, Max and Alex, have become fascinating for fellow parents and kids alike. He has since amassed 549,000 followers.
Why did you start your profile, The Dad Lab?
It was actually my other half who persuaded me to start my own account. I wanted to inspire other parents and, as it turns out, I’m quite good at it!
Where does your interest in science stem from?
It was my desire to spend more quality time with my sons that led me to explore science. As a child, I loved smashing things to see what was inside – that’s kind of science, right?
What have been your favourite projects so far?
Recently we did the classic ‘egg in a bottle’ experiment upside down. We put birthday candles on top of a boiled egg, lit them and covered them with a wide-neck bottle, but the boys also love any activity that involves mixing colours.
You must have built up quite a collection of toys…
I am always on the hunt for unique educational toys, and toyella.com is great for these. For crafty projects we use just basic materials like glue, paint, tape and anything else we can find around the home.
What advice would you give to parents who would like to get their children interested in science?
Experiments are definitely the most fun way to introduce kids to science. It’s amazing to look into your children’s excitable eyes and see their little minds searching for an explanation as to what just happened!
Want more? We meet Dara Ó Briain to talk about his new space book for kids
