
MEL Science
MEL Science has earned a strong reputation among families for its high-quality science kits that combine hands-on experiments with digital technology. With an overall satisfaction rating around 4.4 out of 5 stars across hundreds of Trustpilot reviews, parents and educators have shared detailed insights about how these kits perform in real homes and classrooms.
What Parents Love
The highly engaging experiments consistently stand out as MEL Science's greatest strength. Unlike typical science kits, these experiments create genuine excitement:
"As a lifelong chemist... I'm really impressed with these kits." Science Educator - Honest Brand Reviews
"The BEST subscription box we have ever had!" Homeschool of 1
Parents appreciate that every kit includes all necessary materials in well-organized packaging:
"We loved... how prepared all of the supplies were." Honest Brand Reviews
The app-based instructions receive high praise for making complex science accessible:
"The instructions were simple to follow and [we loved] how prepared everything was." Honest Brand Reviews
Many homeschooling families value the educational depth of the experiments:
"Nice hands-on supplement for homeschooling." Two Mama Bears
The AR and VR technology features are frequently highlighted as exceptional additions:
"This [VR headset] alone is worth the entire subscription!" Homeschool of 1
Common Challenges
The subscription cost is the most frequently mentioned concern:
"You get more value from KiwiCo crates vs. MEL STEM box." Two Mama Bears
However, the same reviewer noted for the Chemistry and Physics kits:
"I do think the Chemistry and Physics boxes are worth the cost [as they're] impossible to put together on your own." Two Mama Bears
The level of parent involvement required can be challenging for busy families:
"I would not recommend MEL Science if you get easily frustrated or don't like reading through instructions." Two Mama Bears
Some experiments don't always work perfectly on the first attempt:
"One of the three experiments didn't work for us... we kept trying to no avail, which was a bummer." Two Mama Bears
The physical construction of some kits can be difficult:
"The wooden pieces were very difficult to assemble and started to splinter in certain spots." Two Mama Bears
Best For
Based on parent feedback, MEL Science works particularly well for:
- Families willing to invest time in hands-on science activities
- Children who learn better through visual and tactile experiences
- Homeschoolers seeking lab-quality science experiences
- Tech-savvy kids who enjoy the AR/VR integration
- Parents looking to spark genuine interest in STEM subjects
MEL Science might be less ideal for:
- Families on tight budgets who need a more economical option
- Very busy parents who prefer independent learning activities
- Younger children who need simplified activities (though the STEM kits are suitable for ages 5+)
- Those who prefer purely book-based or digital-only learning
Parent Tips
Experienced MEL Science users suggest:
- Set aside dedicated time for experiments rather than trying to squeeze them in
- Take advantage of prepaid annual subscriptions to reduce the monthly cost
- Have a dedicated space for experiments to minimize cleanup concerns
- Fully explore the app content before and after experiments to maximize learning
- Try the 50% off first month promotion to test if it's right for your family
- Consider switching between different MEL Science subjects as your child's interests evolve
Despite a few drawbacks, parents overwhelmingly see MEL Science as a valuable educational investment. Even those who encountered minor issues typically rated the kits positively overall, with one reviewer aptly summarizing: "MEL Science kits are smart, age-appropriate, fun, and informative. Kids look forward to receiving their experiments each month, and so do parents."
Subjects covered
Core subjects: MEL STEM (ages 5–10), MEL Physics (ages 8–14), MEL Chemistry (ages 10–16), MEL Math (ages 8+), MEL Coding (ages 4–7), MEL Medicine (ages 14+)
Unique offerings: Hands-on projects, AR/VR technology integration, real lab equipment in Chemistry kits, coding without screens for young children, medical tools for the Medicine course
Special emphasis: Experiential learning, inquiry-based science, interdisciplinary STEM integration, alignment with school standards (NGSS and UK curriculum)
Teaching Format
Hands-On Kits: Monthly boxes with science experiments, including all necessary materials and tools
Interactive App: Mobile app provides step-by-step 3D instructions and video guides for each experiment
Augmented Reality (AR) & Virtual Reality (VR): Integrated technology enhances learning through immersive experiences
Live and Recorded Lessons: Optional online classes or recorded lessons for deeper exploration of subjects
Print Materials: Includes printed instruction booklets or cards, often paired with app content
Implementation Flexibility: Parents can choose one or multiple subjects; kits can be used in any order
Assessment: Learning reinforced through app quizzes and troubleshooting tips; no formal tests included
Pricing
Standard Monthly Subscription: Starts around $29.90 – $34.90 per month for one subject
Annual Subscription: Often marketed as “12 months for the price of 8,” averaging about $25.90 per month
Specialty Course Pricing: MEL Medicine course priced higher at approximately $64.90–$69.90 per month
Trial Offers: 50% off the first month promotion for new subscribers
Multi-Box Subscriptions: Discounts available for multiple subjects, e.g., three boxes for $89.70/month or $74.70/month if paid annually
Shipping: Typically free or included for most regions
Cancellation Policy: No long-term commitment required; can cancel or pause anytime with one click
Parent Involvement
Moderate to High involvement required
Daily commitment: Parent involvement is necessary for setup, supervision, and cleanup of experiments, especially for younger children
Preparation: Parents need to dedicate time for reading instructions and guiding children through experiments
Teaching requirements: Parents assist with interpreting instructions, troubleshooting issues, and discussing scientific concepts with children
Assessment duties: Parents may need to evaluate the outcomes of experiments and help children understand the results
Engagement level: The program encourages parent-child collaboration, making it a shared educational experience