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science experiment

Magic Creamer Color Experiment

February 17, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

Try this magic creamer color experiment using half-and-half coffee cream. An easy-to-do science experiment with stunning results.
Try this magic creamer color experiment using half-and-half coffee cream. An easy-to-do science experiment with stunning results.

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It’s been a while back, but I promised to try the always-fun magic milk experiment with homo milk or cream. So here’s a post about a magic creamer color experiment.

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Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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Watch the colors swirl and change in this stunning magic creamer color experiment. This is a crowd-pleasing science experiment.

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Supplies Collected

Collected in this winter-themed version is:

  • snowman cake pan
  • half-and-half (10% milk fat) creamer
  • red, yellow, and blue food coloring
  • liquid dish soap

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The Magic Creamer Color Experiment

Watch the colors swirl and change in this stunning magic creamer color experiment. This easy-to-do science experiment is sure to be a topic for conversation.

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To perform this easy science experiment, pour a layer of half and half (10% milk fat) creamer into a cake pan or small bin. My pick for this experiment is a snowman cake pan. It is medium-sized and fits the amount of liquid I have on hand.

Note: Half and half cream is equal parts whole milk and light cream. It isn’t near as creamy as whipping cream but is creamier than the milk I’ve featured in past experiments. It is commonly used as a coffee creamer.

Next, add drops of red, yellow, and blue food coloring around the pan.

Then add drops of liquid dish soap onto some of the food coloring patches. The colors will immediately swirl around and make new color designs.

Close up, the color changes look super stunning.

A close-up view of the immerging designs created in a magic creamer color experiment. This easy science experiment is a crowd-pleaser.

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After the color movement slows down, check back occasionally and you will see new color patterns immerge. The color designs will keep changing for at least half an hour.

Watch the colors swirl and change in this stunning magic creamer color experiment. This easy-to-do science experiment is sure to be a topic for conversation.

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At this time, try adding a few more drops of food coloring. I try to make a snowman face and buttons.

Add more dish detergent drops and watch the colors move and change again.

Try this magic creamer color experiment using half-and-half coffee cream. An easy-to-do science experiment with stunning results.

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Interpreting This Color-Changing Science Experiment

Although half-and-half (10% milk fat) creamer is made of a significant amount of water, it also contains fat and protein. These are both sensitive to changes in the liquid. When dish soap is added to the pan, it breaks up the surface tension of the half-and-half liquid and is attracted to the fat molecules. The fat molecules try to scurry away but end up bonding with the soap molecules. The movement of the food coloring makes this process visible. As more and more soap and fat molecules bond, the color movement slows down and eventually stops.

Watch the colors swirl and change in this stunning magic creamer color experiment. This is a crowd-pleasing science experiment.

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Fat content in the half-and-half creamy liquid is super important in this science experiment.

The colors in the half-and-half coffee creamer experiment move at a slightly slower rate than 2% or 1 % milk, both of which I’ve tried successfully before. All three liquids show stunning color-swirling results.

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Related:

Color Explosion Science Experiment

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[Read more…] about Magic Creamer Color Experiment

Filed Under: preschool, science, sensory, winter Tagged With: color, color experiment, science experiment, snowmen

Candy Cane Tree Experiment

December 20, 2022 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

This mini candy cane tree experiment is a must-try. Just three supplies are needed for the simple science activity everyone will love.

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This candy cane tree experiment is easy to set up and is sure to be a conversation piece. It works well as a Christmas science activity, and also fits a forest theme.

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Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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Supplies To Collect

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For this simple science experiment, gather the following four supplies:

  • package of mini candy canes
  • one round striped candy
  • large flat white or cream-colored plate
  • flask of warm water

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    The Candy Cane Tree Experiment

    Design a tree on a plate with mini candy canes. Pour water into the plate and watch what happens. Your audience will be wowed!

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    To perform this showy science experiment, start by arranging mini candy canes on a plate in a Christmas/coniferous tree design. The colorful and fruity candy canes above were a great find at a Dollar Store.

    Next, set a round candy on top of the tree to be the tree topper.

    Then fill a flask with warm water.

    Carefully set the plate with the tree design on a table.

    Now the experiment is ready to be performed. Invite participants to gather around the candy tree. Slowly pour water from the flask into the plate and invite everyone to watch what happens. It’s that simple!

    Participants will be wowed at how the colors in the candy canes quickly spread through the water, making beautiful designs.

    Watch the colors explode from the candy cane tree in this super simple science experiment everyone will love.

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    Color changes will be instant. Over time the colors and their intensity will change.

    Watch the colors move and change in this super simple science experiment everyone will love. The activity is a must-try.

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    Note: This tree-shaped experiment can be done with standard-sized candy canes in a large ridged serving tray.

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    The Science Behind The Candy Cane Tree Experiment

    The candy canes are made of sugar. The water breaks the sugar molecules apart. Then the food colors move through the water from areas of higher sugar concentration (near the candy) to areas with less sugar (the center and rim of the tray.) When the sugar concentration is the same in all areas, the colors stop moving.

    Water temperature is a variant in this experiment. Sugar dissolves more quickly in warm water, and food coloring moves at a faster pace.

    Candy Cane Color Experiment Variations

    Watch the stunning color changes in this super simple mini candy cane science experiment. Try it today!

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    You can forgo making a tree shape with the candy canes, and spread a few around a plate instead. The color movement is just as interesting in this more basic version.

    Watch beautiful colors emerge in this super simple science experiment with a serious WOW factor. Just thee supplies are needed to perform the experiment.

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    Watch beautiful colors emerge in this super simple science experiment with a serious WOW factor. Just thee supplies are needed to perform the experiment.

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    And if you have been following my blog for a while, you may have discovered that I have done a few other candy/candy cane color experiments. Here are more variations:

    Candy Cane Science Experiment

    Blue Candy Cane Science Experiment

    Shamrock Dissolving Candy Experiment

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    This mini candy cane color experiment is a must-try. Just three supplies are needed for the simple science activity everyone will love.

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    [Read more…] about Candy Cane Tree Experiment

    Filed Under: Christmas, preschool, science, sensory, trees Tagged With: candy canes, Christmas tree, science experiment, trees

    Color Magic Milk Experiment

    October 8, 2022 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

    Try this mesmerizing color magic milk experiment today! A maple leaf frame adds an artistic twist to the kitchen science experiment.
    Try this mesmerizing color magic milk experiment today! A maple leaf frame adds an artistic twist to the kitchen science experiment.

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    Have you ever done the color magic milk experiment? It is quick and easy to do, and participants are always in awe of the results. In this version, I add artistic flair by giving the experiment a leafy twist.

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    Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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    Supplies To Collect

    Just a few supplies are needed for this simple but stunning kitchen science experiment. Gather the following:

    • 2 liters milk  
    • red, yellow, and blue food coloring
    • dish detergent
    • large round serving tray
    • maple leaf frame (optional)

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    The Color Magic Milk Experiment

    Effortlessly perform this color magic milk experiment in four easy steps. A maple leaf frame enhances the kitchen science experiment.

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    To do this experiment, start by pouring a layer of milk into a food tray. Using homo milk is recommended, but 1% and 2% will also work.

    Note: Outdated milk is a great choice for this experiment.

    Next, float a maple leaf frame on the milk. (My frame is a cardboard cutout purchased at a dollar store.)

    Note: The leaf-themed frame adds interest to the experiment, but is not necessary for it to work.

    Then drip yellow, red, and blue food coloring inside the frame.

    This next step is where the magic happens… Squirt a drop of dish detergent onto each pool of colors. Watch the colors instantly race to the edge of the frame, swirling around as they go.

    After the initial color burst, check back after ten minutes and you will see a variety of hues slowly starting to fill in the maple leaf shape.

    Watch the color magically spread around the maple leaf frame in this kitchen science experiment.

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    At this point, you can add a little more food coloring and a tiny bit of dish detergent for more color play.

    The colors slowly fill out the maple leaf frame in this color magic milk experiment with an artistic twist.

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    View this maple leaf color magic science experiment as a video.

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    The Science Behind This Color Experiment

    Although milk is made of mostly water, it also contains fat and protein. These are both sensitive to changes in the milk. When dish soap is added to the tray, it breaks up the surface tension of the milk and is attracted to the fat molecules. The fat molecules try to scurry away but end up bonded with the soap molecules. The movement of the food coloring makes this process visible. As more and more soap and fat molecules bond, the color movement slows down and eventually stops.

    Since the fat content in milk is super important in this experiment, homo milk works the best. But 2% and 1% milk (which I often have handy) also show stunning results.

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    Try this mesmerizing color magic milk experiment today! A maple leaf frame adds an artistic twist to the kitchen science experiment.

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    Related: Color Explosion Science Experiment

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    [Read more…] about Color Magic Milk Experiment

    Filed Under: autumn, fall, preschool, science, sensory, trees Tagged With: color, leaves, science experiment

    Glow Art Words Of Affirmation

    September 20, 2022 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

    This black light "words of affirmation" glow art activity is a must-try. It is a science, art, and language self-esteem-building project.
    This black light "Words Of Affirmation" Glow Art activity is a must-try. It is a science, art, and language self-esteem-building project.

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    Words are powerful, and they can be super uplifting to early learners. At the beginning of the school year, supportive, self-esteem-building words help students get off to a good start. A creative and oh-so-easy way to introduce them is by inviting little learners to use highlighters to color around positive ones printed in heart shapes. Afterward, the fancied-up words can be viewed and discussed in a “Glow Art Words Of Affirmation” language and science activity.

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    Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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    Supplies To Collect

    For this confidence-boosting glow art activity, gather the following supplies:

    • chisel-tipped highlighters in a variety of colors
    • white cardstock paper
    • black felt marker
    • scissors
    • tape
    • portable black light fluorescent tube and holder
    • small coffee table

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    Glow Word Art

    First, draw heart shapes on white cardstock paper with a black felt marker, and add a word of affirmation to each one. Or design the project digitally. The words chosen for my art project are:

    • creative
    • friendly
    • kind
    • brave
    • helpful
    • teachable
    • awesome
    • unique
    • cherished
    Steps to perform a black light "words of affirmation" glow art activity. The art project is perfect for the beginning of the year, the end of the year, or anytime in between.

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    Next, invite little learners to decorate a word heart with highlighter markers, and then cut their hearts out. Leaving some parts of the designs uncolored is fine, as white will glow too.

    Note: Highlighter ink is a tiny bit toxic, but using it is not considered a health risk. If your little charges are prone to sticking things in their mouths and/or coloring on themselves, it is advisable to choose another art medium for this activity.

    When decorated, tape the embellished hearts to a wall in a room that can be made totally dark.

    Afterward, place a fluorescent tube black light on a small table next to the art wall, and turn it on.

    Then invite everyone to the room to view the art with all lights on. Discuss how the words apply to your little learners.

    This "positive words" glow art activity incorporates language and science. It is a confidence-boosting art project perfect for any time of the year.

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    Lastly, make the room dark and leave just the black light on. Students will be wowed by the glowing, worded hearts.

    This "positive words" glow art activity incorporates language and science. It is a confidence-boosting art project perfect for any time of the year.

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    Safety Tip: Tell children that they should only be near a black light for a short period of time. Prolonged exposure may lead to eye and skin damage.

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    Discussing The Glow Art Words Of Affirmation

    Here are some ideas for discussing decorated word hearts with the children:

    • Assure early learners that they are brave in coming to school and meeting new friends.
    • Affirm the specialness of each child by saying they are “unique, awesome, and cherished.”
    • Compliment students for being creative and teachable.
    • Highlight that being “friendly, helpful, and kind” are ways to work as a team and get along with each other.
    This black light "Words Of Affirmation" Glow Art activity is a must-try. It is a science, art, and language self-esteem-building project.

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    The Science Behind Black Light

    Black lights are designed to block out visible light and emit invisible, ultraviolet (UV-A) light. They illuminate natural and man-made materials that contain phosphors. Phosphors convert the energy in UV radiation to visible light by re-emitting it at a different wavelength, one that our eyes can see.

    The dyes from highlighter pens contain phosphors. When highlighter art is positioned in a dark room near a black light, it glows.

    This black light character trait art activity incorporates language and science. It is a confidence-boosting art project perfect for any time of the year.

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    Glowing Names

    Instead of focussing on words of affirmation, invite your little learners to color around their names with highlighters. This is also a terrific beginning of the year activity. And it works well at the end of the school term to remind children that they have been valued members of the class.

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    Related: Scented Moon Playdough

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    [Read more…] about Glow Art Words Of Affirmation

    Filed Under: art, display, fall, friends, literacy, preschool, science Tagged With: art, black light, light, science experiment, self-esteem

    Felt Marker Color Exploration

    May 1, 2022 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

    Create beautiful hues with this felt marker color exploration invitation. The activty is easy and economical to set up!
    Create beautiful hues with this felt marker color exploration invitation. The activty is easy and economical to set up!

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    So – many – beautiful – hues! That‘s what your little learners will create while engaging in this felt marker color exploration invitation. The activity is easy and economical to set up and the science experiment is as interesting to children as any other project out there.

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    Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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    Supplies to Collect

    Gather the following supplies. Most can be found in the kitchen, so you probably already have them!

    • plastic tablecloth
    • water-based felt markers
    • office paper
    • craft foam
    • paper towels
    • clear plastic or white styrofoam egg cartons
    • compartment trays
    • scissors
    • jug of water

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    Create beautiful hues with this felt marker color exploration invitation. The activity is easy and economical to set up!

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    The Felt Marker Color Exploration Set Up

    First, cover a table with a plastic tablecloth.

    Next cut paper, paper towels, and craft foam into 2-inch x 3-inch strips.

    For each participant, fill sections of an egg carton with water. Or add water to empty tempera block trays.

    Then set up stations with strips of paper and foam, and a water-filled egg carton or compartment tray.

    Add a set of water-based felt markers to each spot.

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    Exploring Color With Felt Pens And Markers

    An easy and economical felt marker color exploration activity your children will love to do!

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    Invite participants to decorate foam and paper strips with felt markers, and then dip the strips into egg carton sections. The water will turn a variety of colors, resulting in exquisite transient art. Such a fun science experiment with an artistic flair!

    The colored water in the clear egg cartons below is the work of several students. I was so impressed with the many colors they created. The plastic egg cartons are set on a light table so the hues display clearly. Aren’t they gorgeous?

    So many beautiful hues can be created with this felt marker color exploration activity.

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    Related:

    • Color Explosion Science Experiment
    • Candy Cane Science Experiment
    • Shamrock Dissolving Candy Experiment

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    [Read more…] about Felt Marker Color Exploration

    Filed Under: art, light table, preschool, science, sensory Tagged With: colors, felt markers, science experiment, sensory play

    Floating Egg Science Experiment

    March 25, 2022 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

    How to perform a simple floating egg science experiment with easy-to-gather supplies. Decorated eggs add artistic flare to this activity.
    How to perform a simple floating egg science experiment with easy-to-gather supplies. Decorated eggs add artistic flare to this activity.

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    In a whole range of egg colors with expressive faces drawn on, this floating egg science experiment includes a dose of art and drama. The experiment is simple to do and promises to be a huge hit with your little learners.

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    Supplies To Collect

    The supplies for this dramatic science experiment are easy to procure, as you probably already have them in your home. Gather the following:

    • eggs
    • salt
    • pitcher of water
    • egg carton
    • two 500 ml glass jars
    • tablespoons
    • egg dipper
    • store-bought egg dying kit
    • black permanent felt pen

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    Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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    Performing The Floating Egg Science Experiment

    Steps to perform a simple floating egg science experiment with easy-to-gather supplies. Drawing and egg coloring are included in this activity.

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    With a permanent felt pen, carefully draw chick feet and a worried face on one side of the eggs selected for the experiment. Draw feet and a happy face on the other side of each egg.

    Note: Crayons can be used instead to decorate the eggs.

    Then dye the eggs in different colors. I use color tablets from a store-bought kit for the eggs, but you could use a home recipe.

    Carefully drop the color-dyed eggs back in the egg carton, using an egg dipper if available. Let the eggs dry.

    Pour 1½ cups water into two jars.

    Add 3 tablespoons salt to one jar, and stir it into the liquid. Add no salt to the other.

    Pick a decorated egg to gently drop into the unsalted jar of water. Observe if it floats or sinks. Then scoop the egg out of the liquid and have participants pick the feeling the “chick egg” might be experiencing: (worried, scared.)

    Simple and fun floating egg science experiment with easy-to-gather supplies. Egg decorating adds an artistic element to this activity.

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    Carefully drop the same egg into the saltwater jar. Observe if the egg now floats or sinks again. Have participants pick the feeling the “chick egg” is probably experiencing: (relief, happiness.)

    Simple and fun floating egg science experiment with easy-to-gather supplies. Egg decorating adds an artistic element to this activity.

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    Try this science experiment with other colored eggs. Participants may enjoy picking an egg in their favorite color to drop in the jars.

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    Related: Reptile Egg Science Experiment

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    The Science Behind This Experiment

    An egg is denser than water, so it sinks. But when salt is added to water, it increases the density of the liquid. When enough salt is added, a raw egg will float.

    How to perform a simple floating egg science experiment with easy-to-gather supplies. Decorated eggs add artistic flare to this activity.

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    Floating Egg Experiment Extensions

    This floating egg experiment could be extended by:

    • using large and small-sized eggs, and recording how much salt needs to be added to a jar for each one to float.
    • dying the eggs in different methods.
    • reading a picture book about feelings before or after performing the experiment.

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    [Read more…] about Floating Egg Science Experiment

    Filed Under: art, Easter, literacy, preschool, science, sensory Tagged With: eggs, feelings, science experiment, sensory play

    Shamrock Dissolving Candy Experiment

    March 5, 2022 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

    Try this stunning, easy-to-perform shamrock dissolving candy science experiment today! It brings a WOW factor.
    Try this stunning, easy-to-perform shamrock dissolving candy science experiment today! It brings a WOW factor.

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    Lately, I cannot get enough of candy color science. So, in addition to previous endeavors, I tried a shamrock dissolving candy experiment. It’s got all the WOW factor similar experiments offer.

    Since it is difficult to find a clear or white shamrock-shaped plate or pan, a shamrock outline taken from a St. Patrick’s Day wall decoration helps create the aesthetic appeal. And it does the job beautifully!

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    Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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    Supplies To Collect

    Supplies for a science experiment couldn’t be any easier to gather. Just four items are needed:

    • shamrock outline
    • striped green and white candies
    • round, square, or rectangular leak-proof tray
    • measuring cup
    Steps to perform a shamrock dissolving candy science experiment that delivers a WOW factor.

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    Performing The Shamrock Dissolving Candy Experiment

    First, set the shamrock outline in the center of a tray that is a little larger than the clover shape.

    Next, position the striped candies next to each other around the inside of the shamrock.

    Then, fill a 500 ml measuring cup with warm water.

    Slowly pour the warm water into the tray, aiming for the area near the rim. Cover just the bottom of the tray with liquid.

    Watch what happens!

    This stunning, easy-to-perform shamrock dissolving candy science experiment delivers a WOW factor.

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    After the color has spread from the candies into different patterns, a leprechaun could be floated in the center of the shamrock outline for added visual appeal.

    The leprechaun is the finishing touch to this stunning, easy-to-perform shamrock dissolving candy science experiment.

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    Participants may wish to taste the colored water. It will likely have a noticeable mint flavor. The candies will slowly dissolve, but a few could be scooped up for tasting as well.

    Note: The shamrock outline can be washed and dried afterward, and used as a  tracer.

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    The Science Behind This Candy Science Experiment

    The candies are made of sugar. The water breaks the sugar molecules apart. Then the food colors move through the water from areas of higher sugar concentration (near the candy) to areas with less sugar (the center and rim of the tray.) When the sugar concentration is the same in all areas, the colors stop moving.

    Water temperature is a variant in this experiment. Sugar dissolves quicker in warm water, and food coloring moves at a faster pace.

    This science experiment is so easy to set up and has immediate results, perfect for little learners. And participants get to use their senses of sight, smell, taste, and touch. Try it today!

    Try this stunning, easy-to-perform shamrock dissolving candy Science experiment today! It brings a WOW factor.

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    Related: Blue Candy Cane Science Experiment

                  Heart-Shaped Dissolving Candy Science

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    [Read more…] about Shamrock Dissolving Candy Experiment

    Filed Under: preschool, science, St. Patrick's Day Tagged With: candy science, leprechauns, science experiment, shamrocks, St. Patrick's Day

    Heart-Shaped Dissolving Candy Science

    February 20, 2022 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

    How to perform a heart-shaped dissolving candy science experiment. A simple experiment with amazing results.
    How to perform a heart-shaped dissolving candy science experiment. A simple experiment with amazing results.

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    Valentine’s Day has passed, but it is Heart Month in Canada and the United States. So I am squeezing in this heart-shaped dissolving candy science experiment before I put all the valentine items away for the season. It’s an easy and fun experiment for all ages, so be sure to give it a try.

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    Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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    Supplies To Collect

    There are just four items to gather for this fascinating color experiment that I cannot get enough of:

    • round, square, or rectangular tray (white or clear)
    • striped red and white candies
    • plastic or wooden heart outline
    • measuring cup with a spout

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    The Heart-Shaped Dissolving Candy Science Experiment

    Easy steps to perform a heart-shaped dissolving candy science experiment.

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    First, pick a large heart outline. A wooden or plastic heart would work, or you could cut one from a generous piece of red craft foam. I used one that was previously part of a heart-themed wall hanging.

    Place the outline in a white or clear tray that is slightly bigger than the heart.

    Next, lay candies around the inside of the heart outline. Featured here are Starlight Mints purchased at a Dollar Store. They have flat sides, so seem destined for this experiment!

    Then fill a 500 ml cup with a spout with warm water. Or use a large cup or water bottle.

    Slowly pour the water into the bin. Add just enough liquid so the bottom is covered.

    Watch what happens! And have your camera ready to snap some stunning pictures.

    An easy to perform heart-shaped dissolving candy science experiment. A simple experiment with amazing results.

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    Try this heart-shaped dissolving candy science experiment today! It is simple and brings the WOW factor.

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    For the science behind this experiment, visit my blogpost Candy Cane Science Experiment.

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    Side Note: I wasn’t sure what to call the heart shape I feature in this science experiment. One of the search words for suggestions I used was heart rims. Who knew that you could get heart-patterned rims for car tires!

    If you give this heart-shaped dissolving candy science experiment a try, tag me on Instagram and I will share your post in my stories.

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    Related: Blue Candy Cane Science Experiment

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    Filed Under: preschool, science, Valentine's Day Tagged With: candies, hearts, science experiment

    Strawberry Hot Chocolate Bin

    February 19, 2022 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

    A dreamy, taste-safe strawberry hot chocolate sensory bin to let your little learners explore. This activity is perfect for a party day or any day!
    A dreamy, taste-safe strawberry hot chocolate sensory bin to let your little learners explore. This activity is perfect for a party day or any day!

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    This taste safe strawberry hot chocolate bin is sure to excite your little learner. It incorporates marshmallows, lollipops, and pouring with a miniature tea set, all mega-hits with young children.

    For this activity I originally planned to try a classic hot chocolate sensory bin, using chocolate-flavored candies or lollipops. But I didn’t have any luck finding hard chocolate candy. So, a dreamy strawberry hot chocolate-themed bin it is.

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    Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning activities.

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    Supplies To Collect

    Gather the following supplies for this taste safe sensory bin:

    • red and pink heart-shaped lollipops
    • mini marshmallows
    • miniature toy tea set
    • small white tub
    • cool water

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    Introducing The Strawberry Hot Chocolate Bin

    First, thoroughly sanitize the tub and toy tea set.

    Note: If more than one child is participating in this activity, give them their own bin.

    Then set the tea set in the bin, and add an inch of cool water. Invite your little learner to play with the cups and saucers and pot in the bin.

    A dreamy, taste-safe strawberry hot chocolate sensory tub to let your little learners explore.

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    Next, drop in two lollipops. Suggest that a little tasting is allowed, but that the lollipops should go back in the bin afterward. Draw attention to the gradual color change in the water: the liquid slowly changes to light pink. And observe that the lollipops shrink over time.

    A lollipop and tea set sensory bin your little learner will love to explore. This sensory bin is toatally taste-safe.

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    Then sprinkle a few mini marshmallows into the bin. Encourage your little learner to include the marshmallows in pouring activities.

    Tip: Staggering the addition of marshmallows and lollipops extends the time the children will spend in the sensory activity.

    This sensory bin is totally taste safe, and part of the experience is to be able to taste the lollipops, marshmallows, and flavored water. The colored water will likely have a light, fruity taste.

    Make sure hands are washed very carefully after playing in the bin, as they will be a little sticky.

    A dreamy, taste-safe strawberry hot chocolate sensory bin to let your little learners explore. This activity is perfect for a party day or any day!

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    Benefits Of This Sensory Bin

    There are many benefits of this tasty sensory bin:

    • exercising eye-hand coordination in pouring “hot chocolate” and sipping from tiny cups.
    • experiencing a color change science experiment when lollipops are added to the bin.
    • encouraging language development by describing the look and feel of the bin and the taste of the lollipops, marshmallows and water.
    • discussing that sweet treats should be eaten in moderation.
    • experiencing joy by participating in an unexpected, new, super fun sensory activity.

    This strawberry hot chocolate bin is perfect for a party day such as Valentine’s Day. It would also work wonderfully for a Mother’s Day celebration.

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    Strawberry Hot Chocolate Recipes

    If you would like to try or serve authentic strawberry hot chocolate, here’s a couple of blogs with delicious recipe posts:

    Sprinkle Bakes features an instant strawberry hot cocoa mix.

    My Heavenly Recipes showcases a strawberry hot chocolate recipe.

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    Related: Candy Cane Science Experiment

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    [Read more…] about Strawberry Hot Chocolate Bin

    Filed Under: party, preschool, pretend play, science, sensory, Valentine's Day Tagged With: hot chocolate, science experiment, sensory bin, sensory play, sensory tray, taste safe, tea set

    Blue Candy Cane Science Experiment

    January 23, 2022 by Annette Kaminsky 1 Comment

    This easy-to-do blue candy cane science experiment is perfect for winter and transitions nicely into Valentine's Day.
    This easy-to-do blue candy cane science experiment is perfect for winter and transitions nicely into Valentine's Day.

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    This blue candy cane science experiment is an offshoot of an earlier candy cane science post. I purposely saved blue striped candy canes to use in a few winter-themed variations of the easy-to-perform experiment. And yes…I am permanently hooked on candy cane science!

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    Supplies To Collect

    This blue candy cane snowflake experiment will wow little learners. It is easy to set up and shows immediate results.

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    First up is a blue candy cane snowflake version of the experiment. To perform it gather the following three supplies:

    • six blue and white striped candy canes
    • large clear, white, or cream-colored plate with a rim
    • measuring cup (or cup) of warm water

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    The Candy Cane Snowflake Experiment

    Set the candy canes on a large plate in a six-sided snowflake design.

    Let the science experiment begin with this blue candy cane snowflake!

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    Slowly pour in warm water to partially cover the candy canes.

    Invite participants to watch what happens.

    An easy-to-do candy cane snowflake science experiment. All you need is water, candy canes, and a plate.

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    While little learners watch the colors in the water spread during the experiment, slip in a few snowflake facts from the list below.

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    Ten Fast Facts About Snowflakes

    • Snowflakes are made of many snow crystals that are stuck together.
    • The six-sided flakes come in symmetrical, hexagonal shapes.
    • About 200 ice crystals make up one snowflake.
    • There are six basic types of snowflakes.
    • Combinations of these types make 35 recognizable snowflake designs.
    • A snowflake’s shape is determined by the temperature and amount of moisture in the air when it was formed.
    • Snowflakes range in size, from teeny tiny to penny-sized.
    • Because they reflect light, snowflakes appear white. But they are actually translucent.
    • Every second, billions of snowflakes float down to earth.
    • Snowflakes fall at 3- 4 miles per hour or about 5 – 6.5 km per hour.

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    Try this easy-to-do candy cane snowflake experiment today. It uses simple supplies and has immediate results. Snowflake facts are included.

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    Early learners may wish to have a little taste of the resulting blue liquid. Unlike the strong mint taste of the Christmas candies, the blue water has a pleasant berry flavor.

    Tip: If you have other candy cane colors available rather than blue striped ones, use them in the experiment instead. Snowflakes look beautiful in all colors!

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    Blue Candy Cane Heart Experiment

    For a simpler but equally striking version, form two candy canes into a heart shape on the plate. When water is slowly added, little learners will notice a different color pattern developing.

    This blue candy cane heart science experiment fits into winter and transitions nicely into Valentine's Day.

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    A pretty blue candy cane science experiment that will wow little learners.

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    The Science Behind The Color Movement

    The candy canes are made of sugar. The water breaks the sugar molecules apart. Then the food colors move through the water away from areas of higher sugar concentration (near the candy) to areas with less sugar. When the sugar concentration is the same in all areas, the colors stop moving.

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    Blue Candy Cane Sensory Tube

    If you have broken candy canes saved that weren’t suitable to display or hand out over the holidays, use them in a sensory tube.

    Candy cane winter sensory tube with ice cubes and snowflakes.

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    To make the winter-themed tube above, freeze ice cubes and add them to a clear tube with a wide mouth.

    Next, sprinkle in blue and white foam and gem snowflakes.

    Gently drop in blue-striped candy cane pieces.

    Then fill the sensory tube with cool water and tightly screw on the lid.

    Invite little learners to play with the tube.

    An icy blue candy cane winter sensory tube doubling as a float and sink experiment.

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    Because the water in the tube is cool, it changes color at a slower pace than in the snowflake and heart versions of the experiment.

    Float and sink experimentation happens naturally with this candy cane tube. The snowflake gems and candy cane pieces sink to the bottom and hang out there, while the foam shapes congregate at the top.

    This eye-appealing blue candy cane sensory tube doubles as a float and sink experiment.

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    Related: Color Explosion Science Experiment

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    [Read more…] about Blue Candy Cane Science Experiment

    Filed Under: preschool, science, sensory, winter Tagged With: candy canes, colors, science experiment, sensory tubes

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    Hi, I'm Annette Kaminsky. I am a preschool teacher who loves to share easy and fun early learning activities. Thanks for visiting my blog. Feel free to stay awhile!

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