There are many fun ways to explore science right in your own kitchen. Here are some favorite kitchen science experiments for children.
"Oobleck":
You will need cornstarch, water, and a spoon for mixing. An old pie tin makes a good container. Place ½ cup of cornstarch in the pie tin. Add ¼ cup of water gradually. Check the consistency. The mixture should flow like a liquid, but if you suddenly squeeze it, it will feel like a solid. Take Oobleck in your hand and squeeze it. You can make a ball, but when you open your hand, it will become runny and flow off the sides of your hand and between your fingers. Encourage children to explore Oobleck. Ask them to predict what will happen if they squeeze it, stir it, or splash it.
Fun putty:
Combine equal amounts of white glue and liquid starch (found with the laundry products at your local store). First, let the children feel the glue with a finger. Ask them what it feels like. Then ask them to guess what will happen to the glue when you add the liquid starch. Encourage a child to gradually pour starch into the glue and stir it with a spoon. If the mixture is too sticky, add more starch. Encourage the children to touch the finished product, and have them describe how it feels. Ask them how the finished product is different from their predictions.
Remember, it is important to ask and respond to questions when teaching children science. The best way to respond to their questions is to ask, “What do you think?” If you’re not sure of the answer, suggest finding it out together. It’s an excellent learning opportunity.
Keep in mind that kitchen science experiments offer good hands-on learning for preschool children but should be supervised by an adult.
For more activities in science and other areas, check out our database of hands-on activities for child care.
