Experiment With Really Big Bubbles
Introduce some science fun while playing with bubbles. Help your child make a large wand and simple bubble solution to create really big bubbles.
Materials
Directions
Explain to your child that bubbles are formed when air gets trapped inside of a soapy film. Tell her that today she’s going to help make bubbles that are really big! Ask her, “How big of a bubble do you think we can make?”
Start with two straws. Cut them to about 6 inches.
Thread a length of string through the straws, end to end, as though you were stringing beads. The length of your string determines the size of your bubbles. About 30" is recommended. (If you're having problems threading the string through the straw, insert the string into one end and suck on the other end. You might end up with a mouthful of string, but it pulls it right through!)
Tie the ends of the string to form a large loop. Then, move the knot so it's inside one of the straws.
Take two more straws and insert them inside the other straws to form handles. If you end up with two different sized straws, pinch the ends, and you'll still be able to push in the straws for handles.
Have your child pour the bubble solution into the shallow container. Then, have him submerge the string and straws and slowly lift up by the handles. Help him gently pull apart the handles until the strings are taut. The wind or his movement should help a big bubble take shape.
It may take a few tries to get the hang of it, but this is an opportunity for your child to test his technique. For example, encourage him him to try moving the handles side-to-side and up and down. If there’s a slight wind, ask your child to experiment with making the bubble when the wind blows and when the air is still. Which works better? Ask him how the size of her bubbles compared to the size he expected? Were the bubbles bigger or smaller?
Bubble Recipes
Recipe 1:
Materials
- 1 gallon hot water
- 1/4 cup glycerin (available in many drug stores and craft stores)
- 1 cup dishwashing liquid
Directions
- Gently mix all ingredients together.
- Allow it to sit overnight in an open container before using for the first time.
Recipe 2:
Materials
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup dishwashing liquid
Directions
- Put water and corn syrup in a bowl and microwave for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir, then gently mix in dishwashing liquid.
Laura Novobilsky lives in Maryland and is the proud but exhausted mother of three. She loves to find ways to come together with her kids through crafts, projects, activities, and outings. Laura’s favorite activities are easy and inexpensive, yet fun and enjoyable for everyone. She shares the many things she has done with and for her children on her blog, Come Together Kids.
Science