How to Make Oobleck
Making oobleck is a great science and sensory project combined into one. After combining cornstarch and water, dip your hands into this non-Newtonian fluid, fluid that acts like a solid and a liquid at the same time.
Materials
Directions
Help your child measure 3/4 cup of water in a plastic measuring cup.
If you have food coloring, have your child add a couple of drops to the water.
Help your child measure 1 cup of cornstarch. Pour into a plastic bowl or bin. Ask your child, "What do you think will happen when the liquids are added to the corn starch?"
Slowly add the water and food coloring.
Let your child mix the mixture. It will take about 10 minutes to be evenly mixed, so you may need to help out. Ask your child to describe the mixture. Ask, "What color is it now?" You may need to add more water and/or cornstarch to get the consistency just right.
Once the mixture is ready, have your child gently feel the top of the mixture. As your child how the oobleck feels. Then let your child sink his hands into the oobleck. Ask, "What does the oobleck feel like now?" "Is it bumpy or smooth? Hard or soft?" You can also ask if the oobleck feels warm or cold. Try shaping the oobleck into a ball. Can you do that with other liquids? This liquid got its name from Bartholomew and the Oobleck by Dr. Seuss. In the book, a sticky green gobs called oobleck fall from the sky.
Note: Be sure to throw the oobleck in the thrash.. Do not pour it down the drain. It may separate and become a hard clump of cornstarch!
Caroline Gravino has four children and is also a crafter, video producer, and content designer. For several years, Caroline wrote about project ideas for the whole family and encouraging creativity in kids in her former blog, SalsaPie. Learn more about Caroline.
Science