An Introduction To Light Microscopy For Younger People and Beginners
by Mol Smith

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  The Microscope
Page 6

A range of accessories for a microscope can be purchased separately. None of these are strictly necessary at a starter lever. A pair of tweezers might assist very young people in putting slides on and off the stage and reduces any risk of breaking the thing glass slide and cutting oneself. A polariser can be of value to an experienced microscopist as a method of revealing processes not seen so readily, if at all, with non-polarised light.
To reduce initial outlay for extremely young people, starting them off with a good quality magnifying glass. These should not just be some plastic magnifier you might see in a toy shop, but a professional loupe or doublet. These magnifiers are easy to use and x10 in a young child's hand will soon indicate if the idea of studying the small scale world might excite him or her.
In most cases a doublet will prove more useful than a starter microscope for children 6 years or thereabouts, and can be taken out on family country walks or seaside holidays. A loupe like the one shown on the right will cost between 10.00 to 18.00 pounds. Ensure the lenses are glass and make sure to read other buyer reviews before purchasing on-line. A stainless steel metal body is best for these magnifiers. And many come with a smart little pocket case to prevent scratching the glass lenses.