In this BLOG post I will teach you what materials you need for fizzy fun, the benefits of STEM play and clean-up tips.
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XO Gina
Fizzy experiments are a classic, engaging and hands-on activity for kids of all ages! You only need a few supplies to create Fizzy Fun experiences at home, in the classroom or in your therapy space. Kids have the opportunity to observe chemical reactions, watch as bursts of color bubble together and listen to the sounds of the ingredients mixing and fizzing together!
This type of play opens up opportunities to create, explore, problem solve and learn about the world around you. It is captivating, it is simple, and it is magical every single time!
We love adding a festive twist for Halloween; this time we did purple, orange and green in little cauldrons. You can skip this part and keep it white in any bowl you have at home!
Here are all of the links to everything we used: https://liketk.it/4SUJc
A Play Filled Life participates in an affiliate program and may receive a tiny commission on eligible purchases through her link, at no extra cost to you.
Materials:
Baking soda
Citric Acid
Food coloring (optional)
Glitter (optional)
Mini cauldrons or bowl
Sensory tray or baking dish
Spoon or Scop
Water
Step 1: If you are adding glitter, sprinkle it in the bottom of your cauldron or bowl.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, mix together equal parts baking soda and citric acid. If you are making one cup: add one cup of baking soda and one cup or citric acid.
Step 3: If you are adding food coloring, split the mixture into the number of colors you are using: for example, to make orange, purple and green, split your mixture into three. Add 8-10 drops of food coloring in and mix well. This takes a little bit of mixing to get the color fully incorporated.
Step 4: Fill your cauldrons or bowls with water. Put them on a sensory tray or bowl to catch the spills.
Step 5: Scoop the potion mixture into the water and watch as the magic happens!!
Sensory Play Supports:
Language and vocabulary
Cognitive growth
Fine motor skills (small muscle movements)
Gross motor skills (big movements)
Problem-solving skills
Communication
Exploration of textures
One's ability to make connections
The concept of cause & effect
Benefits of STEM Play:
Fizzy play is a fun & engaging way to teach children about chemical reactions.
Through fizzy play, children have the opportunity to strengthen fine motor skills, learn & review color names & practice color mixing.
Encourages critical thinking.
Improves concentration and focus.
Clean-Up:
Fizzy Fun is an easy one to clean up and a great way to get your kids involved in the process. Dump the leftover mixture down the sink and give it a quick wipe with soap and water!
If you are using glitter, do not dispose down the drain. Throw mixture away in the trash.
What is citric acid?
Citric acid is a weak organic acid that occurs naturally in produce, such as citrus fruits. It is commonly used as a food additive for natural flavoring and as a preservative. It is used in processed food products like beverages, soft drinks, and candies. It is also used in cosmetics, for medical purposes, as an antioxidant, and in cleaning products.
Some specific uses of citric acid include:
As a flavoring agent and preservative in food
To make certain candies sour
As an emulsifier in ice cream
Source-Medical News Today
Notes:
The combination of baking soda and citric acid creates a powdery potion mixture. After it sits for a while, it will harden. Simply break it up with a spoon into pieces and add to water to create your potions!
The baking soda/citric acid mixture is safe to put down the drain after use in small portions. Use your own discretion.
If you use glitter, do not put down the drain. Empty the mixture into a bag and throw away or put directly into the trash.
You get to decide what is safe and manageable in your home. Always monitor young children. Wear safety goggles to protect eyes during science experiments.
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