With some soil, seeds, and a little bit of water, a dozen junior scientists spent Friday afternoon at Plumb Library in Rochester breaking down the circle of life.

After a few experiments, the kids, ages four to 12, concluded that all life is connected.

The lesson on ecology was part of a presentation led by "Magnetic" Meredith LaBove of the "Mad Science" traveling education programs.

The young scientists learned that the Sun, which is a gas - cue the giggles from the kids - warms the Earth and provides nourishment for plants. Take away the Sun, you lose the plants, and the animals that eat the plants.

"This is so important to ecology. When you destroy a habitat, other creatures get affected," LaBove said.

After a quick lesson, it was time for the junior scientists to create their own eco-systems to take home using a container, some soil, seeds, and water.

As she charged the kids to monitor the growth of the seeds, LaBove said, "We need scientists like you. It's all connected. We're all in this together."