Preview draft. Activities have not been tested with caregivers.
Science · The activity desk
Spoon marks in cornstarch mixture
Explore how a cornstarch-and-water mixture moves when pressed or stirred.
Let's play →
A little plan for play
Open interactive activity →Add to play journal →What you need
A shallow unbreakable bowl, cornstarch, water, a measuring spoon, and a larger spoon.
Age: 3–5 years; choose for the individual child.
Let's make it happen
- Adult puts four spoonfuls of cornstarch in the bowl and slowly stirs in two spoonfuls of water. Add small amounts of either ingredient if needed to make a thick mixture.
- Press the surface gently with the back of the spoon, then lift the spoon and watch how the mixture moves back into place.
- Try stirring slowly and pressing faster. Describe the difference, then adult collects the mixture in the bin and cleans the bowl.
For ages 3 and up with an adult. Check for sensitivities; adult handles the dry powder and stays beside the child. This mixture is not for eating. Keep it away from eyes and mouths, wash hands afterward, and put the mixture in the bin rather than down a drain.