The more the parent takes over the project the less the child will reap from the experience. In some ways it's an overprotection. Either way, it's a bad idea. There are some things we shouldn't protect them from. But what we've found is that the team efforts are much more equitable and a better match for what exists in the real world.
Kids also give science fairs mixed grades.
For those passionate about science, the fair can be a marvelous, life-shaping experience. These are often the children who go on to regional and then major competitions like the prestigious Intel Science Talent Search. It developed their confidence. But she believes that by high school, science fairs most benefit those with a strong interest. There are those who would choose to skip it.