By Stephen Benham
Updated Mar 24, 2022

Introducing children to the fundamentals of electricity can be both engaging and safe. Using a 1.5‑volt battery, a few wires, and a small bulb, you can demonstrate how a circuit works without buying any specialized equipment. This hands‑on activity is perfect for a rainy day or a quick STEM break.

Step 1 – Sketch the Circuit

Help your child draw a simple diagram: place a battery on the left and a light bulb on the right. Connect them with two lines—one from the battery’s positive terminal to the bulb’s top, and another from the negative terminal to the bulb’s bottom. This visual aid reinforces the concept of a closed loop.

Step 2 – Prepare the Wires

Cut two 12‑inch pieces of thin, single‑core AWG 18‑gauge wire (the same gauge used in many audio cables). If your child is old enough to handle a knife safely, let them do the cutting under supervision; otherwise, perform the cuts yourself.

Step 3 – Strip the Wire Ends

Use wire strippers to remove about ¼ inch of insulation from each end of the wires. If you don’t have strippers, carefully trim the insulation with a knife and then pull it away by hand. Exposed copper is essential for making a good electrical connection.

Step 4 – Gather Insulating Tape

Cut four short strips of electrical insulating tape. Keep them beside the paper for easy access when securing the wires.

Step 5 – Connect the First Wire to the Bulb

Place the stripped end of one wire onto the bulb’s lower metal contact. Wrap a strip of tape over the wire and bulb to hold it firmly in place.

Step 6 – Attach the Wire to the Battery’s Positive Terminal

Secure the opposite end of that wire to the battery’s top terminal, again using tape to keep the connection steady.

Step 7 – Complete the Circuit with the Second Wire

Connect the second wire to the battery’s bottom terminal. Let your child hold the wire’s plastic insulation about an inch from the end—this keeps them safe from accidental contact with the exposed copper.

Step 8 – Light Up the Bulb

Have your child touch the bulb’s bottom contact with the free end of the second wire. When the circuit is closed, the bulb will glow, demonstrating that electricity flows from the battery, through the wires, and back to the battery. If you wish to keep the light on, secure the wire to the bulb with an extra tape strip.

Materials Checklist

• Paper and pen for the diagram
• Two 12‑inch lengths of AWG 18‑gauge wire
• Knife (for cutting wire and tape)
• Wire strippers (or a knife for insulation removal)
• Electrical insulating tape
• 1.5‑volt AA battery (or equivalent)
• 1.5‑volt flashlight bulb

Safety Note: Adult supervision is recommended when using knives or handling the battery. Ensure that all connections are insulated to prevent accidental shocks.