In-Touch Science uses three types of supplies: reusable, consumable, and perishable. Reusable items include measuring spoons, paper clips, magnifying lenses, and eyedroppers. Consumable items are cooking oil, cotton balls, salt, glue, tape, etc. Perishable items include milk, vegetables, and fruits. The program encourages reuse of "disposable" items such as plastic cups and spoons. Participants are asked to collect recycled items such as newspapers, coffee cans, fabric scraps, and egg cartons.

The time and hassle of managing supplies are the two reasons most often mentioned by adults who choose lecturing instead of hands-on activities for teaching science. Although In-Touch Science requires a variety of supplies, their management is not difficult IF you plan ahead. For low-stress supply management:

• Determine supply needs well in advance
• Know where to find supplies
• Be realistic about cost
• Have a storage plan
• Recruit a helper

Determine Supply Needs

Check the Supplies and Preparation list at the beginning of each activity. The Focus Supplies are shared by the group. The Activity Supplies are listed for individuals so multiply by the number of children.

Know Where to Find Supplies

Most materials are available at your local grocery, hardware, drug, discount, garden, or office supply stores. Even so, don't wait until the night before the event because stores may have only a few of each item. It can be frustrating to run to three discount stores just to buy ten sets of measuring spoons.

If you live in a rural area or simply like the convenience of doorstep delivery, items can be ordered by mail. Check the Guide to Ordering Supplies in the back of the publication. Each publication has a unique list of companies. Additional suppliers are listed in the Helpful Hints section of the website.

The items most often ordered are the water-absorbing gel (Chemistry & Environment 3B), activated carbon pellets (Chemistry & Environment 4B), wool fleece (Fibers & Animals 1A), feathers (Fibers & Animals 1B), and reflective tape (Fibers & Animals 2A).

You can also choose to purchase a teaching kit from West Hill Biological as listed on the website.

Be Realistic About Cost

Remember - the more you do In-Touch Science, the less the cost per child. That's because you gradually assemble reusable items and usually have leftovers. See the handout Supply Costs to compare the real price of 1) assembling a new kit, 2) replenishing a used kit, and 3) supplementing home supplies.

Facilitators have shared these ideas for saving money on supplies:

• Ask each child to bring one item such as a roll of paper towels or a box of toothpicks.
• Substitute recycled containers from butter, yogurt, meat, etc. for cups and bowls. Use straws instead of eyedroppers.
• Borrow items such as scissors, magnifying lenses, and goggles from a club or school.
• Have children work in pairs so you need only half the suggested supplies.
• Seek donations from local stores.
• Request assistance from local community groups.

Have a Storage Plan

It is convenient to store In-Touch Science supplies in an 18-gallon plastic tote. These are study, waterproof, and stackable. They fit under a desk, onto a shelf, or into the trunk of a car. Tape a checklist to the lid for easy reference. A checklist for assembling a supply kit for your personal use and a checklist of putting together a supply kit to loan are in each publication.

Recruit a Helper

This is a great opportunity for a parent volunteer but teens and interested elementary students can do a good job.