Earthworm farming!

So mom won't let you have a pet? Start a worm farm and convince her that this is a hands-on ecology lesson. Use a 2-liter plastic bottle with the top cut off, or maybe you have an old aquarium or clear plastic box. A few drain holes in the bottom, sand, dirt, shredded newspaper that you've soaked in water and squeezed out the excess, and PRESTO! You're a worm farmer.

I used worms that I picked up after a recent rain but some websites suggest red wigglers. Whatever worms you use, keep them fed, moist but not wet, and most important - they love to be in the dark. Simply wrap a piece of construction paper around the outside and tape. Mine slides off for easy viewing. After a few days you'll be able to see the worm tracks and castings as they work the soil and recycle their lunch.

For more info check out a book at the library.