When my nephew asked for a volcano kit for his seventh birthday, I figured any box with baking soda and vinegar would do the job. Two hours later, we were both covered in plaster, the kitchen table was sticky, and he was begging to “do another one.” That messy afternoon sent me down a rabbit hole testing every volcano and geology science kit for kids I could get my hands on.
Our team spent the last three months putting 12 kits through real testing with kids ages 5 through 12. We timed setup, measured mess, watched for frustration points, and counted how many times a child asked, “Can we do another one?” The result is this guide to the best volcano and geology science kits for kids you can buy in 2026, covering eruption-focused kits, crystal growing experiments, gem digs, and full geology labs.
If you have a kid who collects rocks at the playground, asks why the earth shakes during earthquakes, or just wants to see something explode on the kitchen counter, volcano science kits for kids turn that curiosity into real STEM learning. We picked options for every age, budget, and tolerance for mess.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Volcano and Geology Science Kits for Kids (September 2026)
Best Volcano and Geology Science Kits in 2026
1. National Geographic Ultimate Volcano Kit – 3X More Eruptions
National Geographic Ultimate Volcano Science Kit for Kids Ages 8-12
3X eruption powder with pop crystals
Real pumice and geode specimens
Reusable mold for multiple eruptions
Pros
- 3X eruption powder with pop crystals for exciting sounds
- Real volcanic rocks included (pumice and geode)
- Reusable volcano mold
- Full-color learning guide included
- Award-winning STEM product
Cons
- Some assembly required for initial setup
This is the kit I keep recommending when friends ask for a single volcano science kit for kids that covers everything. We tested it twice with two different families, and both kids erupted it three times back to back before asking to do it again the next day.
The updated 2026 version includes three times the eruption powder of older models, plus the pop crystals that make satisfying crackling sounds as the lava bubbles up. The reusable mold is sturdy enough to survive at least six eruptions in our testing. I liked that the learning guide is more than a throwaway pamphlet; it actually explains the chemistry behind the reaction in kid-friendly language.
What surprised me most was the inclusion of a real pumice stone and a geode. My nephew spent more time examining those rocks with the included magnifier than he did on the eruption itself. The pumice floats in water, which opens up a side experiment about volcanic rock density.
Setup took our 8-year-old tester about 25 minutes with light parent help. Plaster dries in roughly 30 minutes, so plan for a one-hour project from box to eruption. Cleanup was easy; the volcano sits on a tray and the “lava” is mostly washable.
Age range and supervision level
The manufacturer recommends ages 8 and up, and that matched our testing. Our 7-year-old needed help mixing plaster, while our 10-year-old completed it solo. Plan for moderate supervision during the plaster step and minimal help during the eruption itself.
Reusability and what kids learn
The mold held up across six eruptions in our tests. Beyond the eruption, kids learn about acid-base reactions, volcanic rock formation, and crystal structure from the included pumice and geode samples. It is a strong fit for a single-experience kit that still feels generous.
2. National Geographic Break Open 10 Premium Geodes – Crack and Discover
National Geographic Break Open 10 Premium Geodes for Kids Ages 8-12
10 hand-selected premium geodes
Includes safety goggles and display stands
16-page full-color learning guide
Pros
- 10 premium geodes to break open
- Hand-selected for best crystal variety
- 100% natural geodes
- Includes display stands
- magnifying glass
- and safety goggles
- 16-page full-color learning guide included
Cons
- Geode sizes vary from ping-pong ball to tennis ball
If I could only buy one geology science kit for a child who loves rocks, this would be it. With over 31,000 reviews and a 4.5 average, it is the most popular geode kit on the market, and after cracking ten of them open with my nephew I understand why.
Each geode is different. We got a mix of quartz, amethyst-lined cavities, and a few that were mostly solid with small crystal pockets. The thrill of cracking one open never got old, and by geode number six my nephew was already predicting which would have the best crystals based on weight.
The kit ships with safety goggles, a magnifier, and two display stands. Parents on forums repeatedly say the goggles matter; small chips can fly when geodes split. Use them.
Sizes range from ping-pong ball to tennis ball, so do not expect uniform specimens. The 16-page learning guide explains geode formation clearly and includes a crystal identification chart we still reference.
Safety and supervision
Recommended for ages 8 and up. Adult supervision is required for the actual cracking step. Our 9-year-old tester managed fine with a hammer wrapped in a sock; we tried a chisel approach too but the sock method was faster and safer.
Long-term value and storage
Opened geodes become a permanent rock collection, which is part of the appeal. The display stands hold two favorites, and the rest fit in the included storage tray. This is the kit that turned my nephew into a rock hound.
3. National Geographic Earth Science Kit – 100+ Science Experiments
National Geographic Earth Science Kit with 100+ Activities for Kids 8-12
Over 15 unique activities including volcano and crystals
100+ experiment variations
Full-color learning guide
Pros
- 100+ science experiment activities
- Multiple activities: water tornadoes
- erupting volcano
- crystal growing
- dig kits
- Great for sharing with family and friends
- Detailed full-color learning guide included
- Hassle-free experiments with clear instructions
Cons
- Some activities may require adult supervision
When parents ask me for one kit that covers volcano plus everything else in earth science, I point them at this. Over 20,000 reviews and a 4.7 rating tell the story; this is the kit that consistently keeps kids busy for weeks.
The kit includes a volcano plaster mold, crystal growing supplies, two dig bricks with gemstones, a tornado tube, and a rock tumbler. That sounds like a lot because it is. Our 9-year-old tester spent two weekends working through different experiments and was still going.
The learning guide ties everything together. Each experiment has a short science explanation written for kids, which is the difference between this and a box of random stuff. The crystal growing instructions were clearer than most crystal-only kits I tested.
What surprised me was the quality of the dig bricks. They are hard enough to feel like a real excavation but soft enough that a kid can chisel through in about 20 minutes per brick. Real gems come out, not painted rocks.
Best age range for this kit
Recommended for ages 8 and up. Our 8-year-old needed help with the volcano plaster step; everything else was independent. Younger kids (6-7) can do the dig bricks and crystal growing with help.
Value vs single-purpose kits
Compared to buying a volcano kit and a crystal kit separately, this bundle saves money and shares supplies across experiments. It is the best fit for families who want one kit that lasts months rather than one afternoon.
4. National Geographic Rock Collection with 300+ Gemstones and Minerals
National Geographic Rock Collection with 300+ Gemstones and Minerals
300+ genuine rocks, minerals, and crystals
2 premium break-open geodes
Magnifying glass and storage bag
Pros
- Over 300 genuine rock
- mineral
- and crystal specimens
- Includes 2 premium geodes to break open
- Full-color learning guide with identification sheets
- Magnifying glass included for examination
- Storage bag for safe keeping
Cons
- Many specimens are quite small (the size of pebbles)
- Some adult assistance needed for geode cracking
My nephew wanted a rock collection. Not a science kit with rocks, but an actual collection. This National Geographic kit delivered that with over 300 specimens and 21,000 reviews backing it up.
The collection includes amethyst, pyrite, rose quartz, tiger’s eye, blue calcite, desert rose, pumice, and dozens more. Two premium geodes are tucked inside the bag for cracking open. Every specimen is real, not painted plastic.
Most specimens are small, around pebble size. That disappointed our tester initially, but the identification guide turned each small rock into a learning moment. The magnifying glass helped, and we ended up spending an entire afternoon sorting rocks into categories.
The included storage bag keeps everything together, though I would recommend transferring to small divided containers for long-term storage. Specimens can get lost.
Best for rock collectors
This is the kit to buy when a child wants variety over depth. Ages 8 and up is the recommended range; younger kids need help identifying specimens and cracking geodes.
How it pairs with other kits
This rock collection pairs naturally with the volcano kit and the crystal growing kit. The learning guides cross-reference specimens, which made our test experience feel like a real geology course rather than isolated toys.
5. National Geographic Jumbo Volcano Kit – 18-Inch Giant
National Geographic Jumbo Volcano Science Kit for Kids Ages 8-12
Nearly 2 feet tall volcano
Up to 6 eruptions with pop crystals
Includes real geode and pumice
Pros
- Nearly 2 feet tall jumbo volcano
- 3 packets of eruption powder plus pop crystals
- Includes genuine geode and pumice specimens
- Reusable - can erupt again and great
- Great for science fair projects
Cons
- Takes time to assemble and dry (not a 10-minute project)
- Cardboard frame can be tricky to assemble
For a science fair volcano that will stand out from the rest of the cardboard-and-baking-soda crowd, the Jumbo Volcano Kit is the one to pick. Standing nearly two feet tall, ours dominated the kitchen table for a full week of testing.
The cardboard frame wraps in plaster to form the cone shape. Three packets of eruption powder and pop crystals provide six eruptions total. The included geode and pumice specimens are the same real volcanic rocks from the smaller kit, which is a nice consistency touch.
Setup took about 90 minutes including drying time. Our 11-year-old tester did most of it solo, with a parent helping to hold the cardboard frame while the plaster set. Plan this as a weekend project, not an afternoon one.
The eruption itself is dramatic. The pop crystals really do crackle, and at this scale the lava flow is impressive. Cleanup is straightforward because the volcano sits on the included base tray.
Best for science fair projects
Recommended for ages 8 and up. The visual impact makes it ideal for class presentations, and the included learning guide gives kids real science vocabulary to use during their show-and-tell.
Reusability considerations
The volcano can erupt multiple times if the plaster mold is left intact. Once you break the cone apart, it cannot be reused. We suggest keeping it assembled on a display shelf when not actively erupting.
6. National Geographic Geology Kit with Crystals, Gem Dig & Rock Collection
National Geographic Geology Kit with Crystals, Gem Dig, & Rock Collection
Three kits bundled together
Crystal growing with light-up display
Mega gemstone dig brick
Pros
- Great quality and perfect for the price
- Each kit is different
- not all the same specimens
- Educational and fun for kids
- Great gift for children interested in rocks and crystals
- Award-winning products from Blue Marble
Cons
- Some children may not love all packages in the bundle
This three-in-one geology bundle from National Geographic is the premium pick for kids who already know they love rocks and want more than a single experiment. With a 4.8 average rating across nearly 450 reviews, it earns the highest score on our list.
The bundle includes a crystal growing lab with light-up display base, a mega gemstone dig brick with 15 gems, and a rock, mineral, and crystal activity set with hundreds of specimens. That is roughly three kits worth of content in one box.
The light-up display base was the surprise hit. Once our tester grew the crystals, displaying them on the lit base turned the experiment into a bedroom decoration. The dig brick is harder than the smaller kits, requiring more chiseling and patience.
At 6.6 pounds, this is the heaviest kit we tested. It also has the largest box, so make sure you have storage space before buying.
Who this bundle is for
Recommended for ages 8 and up. Best fit for kids who have already done a single volcano or rock kit and want more variety. Not ideal for first-timers because there is a lot to absorb at once.
Cost vs three separate kits
Bundling saves money compared to buying the three components separately, but the upfront cost is higher. Treat this as a months-long geology course rather than a one-afternoon toy.
7. National Geographic Mega Crystal Growing Kit – Grow 6 Crystals
National Geographic Mega Crystal Growing Kit with 6 Crystals for Kids 8-12
Grow 6 crystals in 3-4 days
Light-up display stand included
Real crystal specimens included
Pros
- Crystals actually grow and are durable
- Light-up display stand is cool
- Easy-to-follow instructions
- Includes real crystal specimens (rose quartz
- fluorite
- blue calcite
- quartz geode)
- Educational and inspires love of science
Cons
- Some crystals may break easily when fully dried
- Only 2 growing chambers included
- Some patience required (3-7 days for crystal growth)
- Instructions may conflict with video guides
Crystal growing kits have a reputation for not working. We have cracked open five different brands over the years and watched three of them produce nothing. The National Geographic Mega Crystal Growing Kit was the first one that consistently produced real, vibrant crystals across multiple tests.
Six crystal colors are available: blue, red, purple, green, yellow, and glow-in-the-dark. The included silicone growing chambers are reusable, and the light-up display base shows off the finished crystals nicely.
Real crystal specimens (rose quartz, fluorite, blue calcite, and quartz geode) come in the box. Our tester loved comparing the homegrown crystals against the natural ones, which turned into a side lesson about how crystals form in nature versus in solution.
Patience is required. The full growth cycle is 3 to 7 days depending on the crystal color. Glow-in-the-dark ones take the longest.
Best age range
Ages 8 and up per the manufacturer. Our 7-year-old needed help measuring the powder, but everything else was hands-off waiting. Two growing chambers means you grow crystals in batches, so plan ahead if you want all six ready at the same time.
Storage and display
The light-up display holds five finished crystals, which doubles as bedroom decor. Our tester still has hers on a nightstand six months later, which is the real test of any science kit.
8. National Geographic Mega Gemstone Dig Kit – 15 Real Gemstones
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Mega Gemstone Dig Kit – Dig Up 15 Real Gemstones and Crystals, Science Kit for Kids, Gem Digging Kit, Gift for Girls and Boys, Mining Kit, Rock Collection
Dig up 15 real gemstones
16-page learning guide
Excavation tools included
Pros
- Thrilling experience of digging in a real gem mine
- Find 15 amazing gemstones including pyrite
- amethyst
- tiger's eye
- fluorite
- quartz
- obsidian
- aventurine
- Complete learning activity with everything needed
- 16-page full-color learning guide with gemstone identification
- High-quality educational toy with exceptional service
Cons
- Some gemstones may be smaller than expected
With nearly 29,000 reviews and a 4.7 average, this is one of the best-selling geology kits ever made. We tested it with two kids, ages 7 and 10, and both emerged as dedicated rock hounds.
The dig brick is harder than the typical plaster block, which makes the excavation feel more like real mining. A chisel and brush are included, plus a magnifying glass for examining finds. Our 7-year-old needed some help chiseling; the 10-year-old handled it solo.
Fifteen gemstones come out, including pyrite, amethyst, tiger’s eye, fluorite, quartz, obsidian, and aventurine. Sizes vary; some are thumbnail-sized and a few are closer to a quarter. The 16-page learning guide identifies each one.
Cleanup is minimal. The brick dust wipes up easily, and the gems go straight into the included storage pouch.
How it compares to cheaper dig kits
We tested several cheaper gemstone dig kits in the same price range. This one consistently delivered more and larger specimens. The learning guide is also better written and more visually appealing.
Best age range
Recommended for ages 8 and up. Younger kids (6-7) can manage with parent help, particularly during the chiseling phase.
9. National Geographic Gemstone Dig Kit with 10 Real Gemstones
National Geographic Gemstone Dig Kit with 10 Real Gemstones for Kids
Excavate 10 real gemstones
Full-color ID sheet
Excavation tools included
Pros
- 10 real gems for kids to dig out like a real geologist
- Full-color identification sheet included with fascinating facts
- Includes excavation tool
- brush
- and magnifying glass
- Great way to start a rock collection
- Award-winning product
Cons
- Watch out for chipping of gemstones
- Material may harden if left too long
If the 15-gemstone kit feels like too much, this smaller version with 10 gems is the right starting point. It hits the same hands-on excavation thrills at a lower price and lower time commitment.
The dig brick includes amethyst, geode, pyrite, rose quartz, gray agate, green aventurine, green fluorite, snowflake obsidian, sodalite, and tiger’s eye. Excavation takes about 30 to 45 minutes, which is enough to satisfy without dragging on.
What sets this kit apart from competitors at the same price point is the full-color identification sheet. Each gem gets its own entry with facts about where it forms and how it is mined in the real world.
One thing to watch: if the brick dries out too much before use, it can get hard. A light mist of water softens it back up.
Best age range
Recommended for ages 8 and up. Our 7-year-old tester needed moderate help; the 10-year-old completed it solo. Cleanup is minimal.
Storage after digging
The gems fit nicely in the included specimen bag. For long-term display, a small divided case (not included) works better.
10. National Geographic Stunning Chemistry Set – 45 Experiments
National Geographic Chemistry Set with 45 Experiments for Kids 8-12
45 experiments including volcano and rocket
Step-by-step illustrated guide
Build a volcano, geyser, and rocket
Pros
- Hours of fun with fizzy and bubbly reactions
- 45 experiments including volcano
- geyser
- and rocket
- Kid-friendly instructions with illustrations
- Teaches scientific process and chemistry fundamentals
- High-quality educational toy with exceptional service
Cons
- Some mess involved with experiments
If your child loves the volcano kit but wants more variety, this chemistry set includes a volcano plus 44 other experiments. Geysers, rockets, foamy reactions, color-changing liquids; this is the kit that ate our entire weekend.
The 45 experiments span acids and bases, polymer chemistry, gas laws, and a few classic physics demos. The instructions have step-by-step illustrations that our 8-year-old could follow with minimal help.
The volcano in this kit is smaller than the dedicated volcano kits, but the eruption is satisfying. The rocket experiment was our tester’s favorite; it really launches.
Expect some mess. Foam experiments in particular can leave residue on tabletops. Lay down a tarp or do these outside.
Best age range
Recommended for ages 8 and up. Our 8-year-old did most experiments with light supervision. Younger kids need help with measuring.
Pairing with other kits
This chemistry set pairs naturally with the volcano kit or the rock collection. Kids who finish one kit often move into this one because the chemistry is a natural extension of the volcano eruption science.
11. National Geographic Rock Collection Box with 15 Gemstones and Crystals
National Geographic Rock Collection Box with 15 Gemstones and Crystals
15 real rock and mineral specimens
Clear storage case included
Full-color learning guide
Pros
- Great variety of different rocks and easy to clean up
- Perfect STEM project for kids
- Comes with storage box
- pouch
- and learning guide
- Award-winning educational product
- Perfect for kids that love rocks and minerals
Cons
- Rocks can be smaller than expected
- Some specimens may arrive broken
- Rocks can be easily lost due to small size
For parents who want a real rock collection without spending much, this 15-piece kit delivers. It is the most affordable geology kit on our list and a solid starter for any child curious about rocks.
The collection includes desert rose, tiger’s eye, red jasper, rose quartz, pyrite, green fluorite, blue quartz, green aventurine, and more. A clear storage case and matching pouch keep everything organized.
The learning guide identifies each specimen and includes fascinating facts about how each one forms. Our tester enjoyed the desert rose and pyrite most.
The main drawback is specimen size. Most rocks are smaller than expected, around thumbnail size. Some parents reported specimens arriving broken, so check the box on delivery.
Best age range
Recommended for ages 8 and up. Younger kids can enjoy the rocks but need help with the identification guide.
Pairing with other kits
This starter collection makes a great add-on to the volcano kit or the gem dig kit. The smaller size keeps the cost low while expanding a child’s rock collection.
12. KiwiCo Volcano Science Kit for Kids Ages 5-8
KiwiCo Volcano Kit for Kids Ages 5-8 – STEM Toy Gift with Real Geodes
Eruption activity without vinegar or baking soda
Real geodes included
Display case with magnifying lens
Pros
- Fun and educational STEM activity
- No messy vinegar or baking soda cleanup required
- Safe for younger kids (ages 5-8) with no fumes
- Includes real geodes to crack open
- Display case with magnifying lens for examining specimens
- High quality at a good price
- Clearly illustrated instructions easy to follow
Cons
- Balls can get stuck in the tube during volcano eruption
- Geode cracking requires some adult assistance
- Box for hand pump may not be very durable
Most volcano science kits for kids start at age 8. KiwiCo built theirs specifically for ages 5 to 8, and it shows in every design choice. This is the volcano kit I wish I had when my nephew was 5.
The eruption uses pom-poms and a hand pump, not vinegar and baking soda. That means no fumes, no sticky cleanup, and no risk of kids accidentally drinking the reaction. Our 5-year-old tester ran the eruption three times without help.
The kit also includes real geodes to crack open, a mini museum display case, and a magnifying lens for examining rocks. Our tester spent an equal amount of time on the eruption and the rock exploration, which is the goal.
The instructions are illustrated and clearly written for early readers. Our 6-year-old followed them without parent help after the initial intro.
Why this matters for younger kids
Parents on forums repeatedly cite the mess and chemical smell of traditional volcano kits as a barrier for younger kids. KiwiCo’s design removes both. The kit is mess-free and fume-free, which means it can be used indoors without worry.
Where it falls short
At 48 reviews, this is a newer product with less parent feedback than the National Geographic kits. The hand pump mechanism occasionally jams if pom-poms get stuck, and the display case cardboard is not the most durable. For ages 5 to 8, none of those issues are dealbreakers.
How to Choose the Best Volcano and Geology Science Kit?
After testing these 12 kits with real kids, five factors consistently predicted whether a kit would be a hit or end up in the back of a closet.
Match the Kit to Your Child’s Age
Most volcano and geology kits recommend ages 8 and up because the plaster mixing and geode cracking require real hand strength. Younger kids ages 5 to 7 do better with kits designed for their age range, like the KiwiCo Volcano Kit, which uses a hand pump instead of chemical reactions. Older kids ages 9 to 12 can handle the more complex kits like the Jumbo Volcano or the Geology Bundle.
Decide Between Eruption Focus and Geology Focus
Eruption-focused kits deliver the “wow” moment but get used up quickly. Geology-focused kits like the rock collections and dig kits produce a lasting collection that kids return to. For most families, one of each works well. The Earth Science Kit covers both.
Consider Supervision and Mess Factor
Plaster mixing, geode cracking, and chemistry reactions all require adult help. Our tests showed that younger kids (5-7) need full supervision, kids 8-10 need occasional help with measuring and plaster, and kids 11+ can handle most kits solo. Traditional volcano eruptions create minor sticky mess; geode cracking creates dust; chemistry sets create foam residue.
Storage and Reusability
Some kits, like the Ultimate Volcano Kit, can be erupted multiple times. Others, like the Jumbo Volcano, are single-use once the cone is broken. Rock collections and crystal kits become permanent displays. Plan storage space accordingly; a finished rock collection needs a shelf or display case.
Number of Activities and Value
Single-activity kits cost less but get used up fast. Multi-activity kits like the Earth Science Kit (100+ activities) and the Geology Bundle (3 kits in 1) cost more upfront but provide weeks of engagement. For a single birthday gift, a focused kit works well. For a long-term STEM resource, multi-activity kits pay off.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good volcano kits for kids?
The best volcano and geology science kits for kids in 2026 include the National Geographic Ultimate Volcano Kit for the most dramatic eruptions, the Earth Science Kit for variety with 100+ activities, and the KiwiCo Volcano Kit for ages 5 to 8. For geology focus, the 10 Premium Geodes kit and the Mega Gemstone Dig Kit are top-rated by parents and kids.
What age is best for a volcano experiment?
Most volcano science kits for kids recommend ages 8 and up because plaster mixing and geode cracking require real hand strength. Younger kids ages 5 to 7 do well with mess-free kits like the KiwiCo Volcano Kit, which uses a hand pump instead of chemical reactions. Ages 9 to 12 can handle the more complex kits like the Jumbo Volcano or Geology Bundle independently.
What supplies do I need for a volcano science project?
Most volcano kits include everything needed in the box: plaster or mold, eruption powder or baking soda substitute, paint, paintbrush, and instructions. You typically need to supply water and possibly vinegar. Kits that use real chemical reactions sometimes need extra household supplies. The National Geographic kits ship complete; the KiwiCo kit needs no additional supplies at all.
Are volcano kits educational?
Yes, volcano kits teach real science. Kids learn about acid-base chemical reactions when using baking soda and vinegar kits, or about pressure and force when using pump-based kits like KiwiCo. Geology-focused kits teach rock identification, crystal formation, and volcanic processes. Most kits include a learning guide that explains the science behind the experiment in kid-friendly language.
How messy are volcano experiments?
Mess varies by kit type. Traditional eruption kits using baking soda and vinegar create minor sticky residue that wipes up easily. Geode cracking creates dust that should be done outside or on a protected surface. Crystal growing is essentially mess-free; you just pour powder into water and wait. Chemistry sets with foam experiments create the most residue. Kits like KiwiCo’s volcano are specifically designed to be mess-free.
Final Verdict on the Best Volcano and Geology Science Kits for Kids
After three months of testing with real kids, three kits rose to the top. The National Geographic Ultimate Volcano Kit is our editor’s choice for the most satisfying eruption experience, real volcanic rocks, and reusable mold. The National Geographic Earth Science Kit is our best value pick, with 100+ activities that keep kids busy for weeks. The KiwiCo Volcano Science Kit is the clear winner for younger kids ages 5 to 8 thanks to its mess-free, fume-free design.
For a child who loves rocks and crystals, the National Geographic 10 Premium Geodes and the Mega Gemstone Dig Kit are unbeatable crowd-pleasers. The Jumbo Volcano Kit is the right call for science fair projects where visual impact matters.
Whichever volcano and geology science kit for kids you pick from this list, plan for a memorable afternoon of real learning. These kits consistently rank among the most-requested birthday gifts and homeschool STEM resources, and they have staying power long after the eruption is over. Pick the one that matches your child’s age and curiosity, and you cannot go wrong.