Monday, December 03, 2007

Every parent or grandparent likes the idea of giving a child the gift of a microscope and, when done correctly, a microscope is a great way to encourage an interest in nature and science. The first step, though, is to decide whether to buy a toy microscope or whether to buy a student microscope. Each grade of microscope has its place, but expectations need to be tailored, accordingly. Paying for a toy microscope and expecting the quality and features of a student microscope is not realistic. Worse, yet, choosing incorrectly may only frustrate, rather than help, the youngster. A parent needs to use some judgment and carefully assess the interest and abilities of their child. A toy microscope is designed to introduce a youngster to a microscope basics and spark an interest in in science and nature. If a toy microscope achieves this in a youngster, it may be money well spent. Keep in mind, though, that if the interest continues and grows, you will quickly need to move on to a student level microscope - a toy microscope is not designed with the quality or features needed for extended or serious use. On today's market, any microscope under $100 is a toy microscope, regardless of the advertising or labeling. No amount of advertising as to magnification and other features will turn a toy microscope into a student class microscope. A student microscope will have the features needed for serious lessons and will also have enough quality to hold up for longer use. If possible, get a microscope with the quality and features similar to a model used in a middle school or high school science class (this is especially true for home schoolers). A microscope with these features will typically run about $200. A good example of a student microscope is the Celestron 44104 or Konus Academy. For parents on a budget, you can forgo a model with a built-in light source, though that is a feature that is well worth the added expense. A student class microscope that uses a mirror for illumination will run $100-150. A good choice, here, is the Celestron 44102 or Konus College. )By the way, toy microscopes that advertise a tiny LED as a light source do NOT count. The only way to use these, effectively, is with a mirror. )