Kitchen Science & Chemistry

Visual activity guides are perfect for early learners. What happens when you mix water and cornstarch? You get oobleck! Put a fun sensory spin on this classic science experiment by incorporating ice cubes to make oobleck.

This fun, colorful experiment creates a moldable dough that fizzes and pops when the secret ingredient is added - vinegar! You'll also need flour, baking soda and oil to create this cool chemical reaction. Food coloring optional (but recommended for maximum fun!).

We’re not talking about real lava, of course, but something similar to that groovy lava lamp you might have had in your bedroom growing up. Salt, oil and water come together to make "lava" in this Explainer TV video.

Sensory activities are open-ended and encourage exploration of materials and processes, rather than the end product. For this activity, see how colors are everywhere in our environment! Use materials in your kitchen such as fruits, vegetables and spices to make easy watercolor paints that are free of chemicals.

The incredible, edible, microorganism, yeast is what makes bread rise. Explore the capabilities of yeast by making delicious bread dough.

With a pinch of science, a dab of creativity, and a whole lot of fun, you can use science to design works of edible pancake art!

Con una pizca de ciencia, un toque de creatividad y mucha diversión, diseñar obras de arte con panqueques comestibles!

Transform your kitchen into a learning lab. Making butter in a jar is a perfect family activity that is fun and easy, and might even save you money! All you need is one ingredient: heavy cream.

La ciencia empieza en la cocina. ¡Hacer mantequilla en un frasco es una actividad familiar perfecta que es divertida, fácile incluso podría ahorrarle algo de dinero! Solo necesita un ingrediente: crema para batir.

In this video from NYSCI Neighbors, learn how to make your own bouncy balls at home! A chemical reaction between a few simple ingredients brings these fun toys to bouncy life.

These shower pods release calming essential oils when placed under running water - learn how to make your own in just a few easy steps.

If you're looking for a fun and easy sensory activity to do with your child, try making this simple dish soap putty. The texture provides a fun way to develop and strengthen motor skills.

Blowing bubbles is a playful and joyful activity for children — and adults, of all ages!
It’s also a rich opportunity to explore hands-on science. Use simple ingredients and
household tools to make a strong bubble solution that will make bubbles that bounce!