There is no mold growing in the fridge and no lab rats running in cages at my house. However, there is an 11-year-old boy contemplating what to choose as his science project. One would think he was preparing for the Golden Globe of science projects.

It is that time again, time to go into “super mom” mode. You begin to do more planning for the science fair than your child. What project will be a good fit for him? What supplies will I have to purchase? I have to make sure he gets everything done when it is due. Does this sound familiar?

I had to remind myself that I don’t have to do it all. I gave my son some guidelines and told him how to get started. His response was, “Can’t I just do the same project as last year? I have a different teacher.” I had to remind him that the purpose of a science project is to be creative, make explorations and learn new things.

In an effort to hold onto my sanity a little longer and make science fun, I searched for tips to get my son and myself through yet another project. PBS Parents lists a few pointers on their website on how to enjoy science alongside your child.

• You don’t have to have all of the answers to your child’s questions. Encourage your child to develop his own thinking skills.
• Listen carefully to your child. Discuss what he thinks and why he thinks that way. Ask open ended questions such as, “Why do you think the tennis ball will bounce higher than the kickball?
• Don’t immediately correct your child. If your child says something scientifically incorrect, help him discover the correct answer. For example, if he says, “heavy things sink” you can ask what things he has seen sink. You could also ask, “Are there any heavy things that you can think of that may float?”
• Model curiosity. Wonder aloud, “I wonder what will happen if we added a teaspoon of vinegar to a small cup of milk?” SIDE NOTE: this is a good way to make milk sour if a recipe calls for a spoon of sour milk (as is the case with my favorite banana bread recipe).

I have found that a science project goes more smoothly if it is one that really interests my child and not just me. An article on ehow.com indicates that a child should choose a project that is testable and within the ability of the child and not the parent. This is yet another indication that I do not have to take on the world. I can relinquish the reins and let my child put forth his best effort.

What are your suggestions for getting your child through a science fair project?

Angela Verges is a writer and mother of two. She can be reached at awritersdream41@yahoo.com.