Fabulous Formulas for Creative Fun

Brought to you by the teachers at Forty Carrots

Hands-on.  It's a term we use to describe activities that keep young people engaged, exploring, examining and expressing.  All of the formulas listed here are "hands-on".  For the most part, the ingredients can be found in your home.  They cost very little but are sure to hold your child's interest.  Perhaps most importantly, they will enhance your child's sense of wonder, a quality we are trying to preserve.  So whether you are looking for an activity to keep your little one busy while you cook dinner, or are looking for a sensory experience to let him/her "let off steam", these FORMULAS fit the bill.  Give one a try.  The mess will be worth it!

 

Bubble Machine

You'll need:

  • 1 small Styrofoam cup
  • 4ozs of bubble solution
  • 1 straw
  • small washcloth
  • 1 rubber band

1.  Dip washcloth in bubble solution, squeeze excess and cover the top of the cup and secure with a rubber band.

2.  Make a small hole on the side of the cup, between the middle and the top of the cup.

3.  Insert straw in hole and blow.  Bubbles will form on the top of the washcloth.

Note: If you make a small pin hold in the straw, your child can still blow bubbles but will not be able to suck in any of the bubble solution.

 

GOOP

You'll need:

  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 1 cup water
  • food coloring (optional)

1.  Add food coloring to water and combine cornstarch in a bowl.

2.  Squeeze, pull and let the goop run through your fingers.  You can't actually make things with this mixture (except a mess!) but it's one of those magical compounds that keeps children interested minute after minute, day after day.

3.  Store in a covered container.  If it dries out, you can revive it by adding a small amount of water.

 

Squeeze Bag

You'll need:

  • Ziploc bag
  • Clear packing tape
  • Filling*

1.  Fill a Ziploc bag with your choice of filling*.

2.  Zip the bag and tape it shut for extra protection

3.  Watch your child delight in the discovery of mixing colors, squishy feelings and more!

*Suggested fillings: Shaving cream & food coloring, water & oil, red/yellow/blue tempera paint, plastic fish & water, or GOOP.