As the end of summer approaches, caregivers of children often feel at a loss in finding new and exciting things to do to entertain them. Here’s something I’ve learned after many years working with children: sometimes simple really is best.
For instance, during our summer reading kick-off this past June, the children’s team created a sidewalk chalk obstacle course that was wildly popular with the kids. It was so popular, in fact, that many of them went through the course multiple times.
What happens when you combine basic household ingredients like corn starch, vinegar, a little food coloring and small satchel of baking powder in a sealed Ziplock?
You got it. The results are explosive. OK, that might be too strong a word, but the bags do make a pleasing popping sound.
Small zip lock bag
½ cup Corn starch
½ cup Vinegar
1 tablespoon baking soda
A square of toilet paper
If you have it, add a couple of drops of food coloring just for fun.
Children will add the cornstarch, vinegar and food coloring to a bag. Zip the bag closed and squish and squash it until all the ingredients are mixed really well.