Hands on Chemistry Fun

I teach a Chemistry Class at our local Co-op for our 1-3rd graders using the Chemistry book from this Publisher. It has been SO fun and easy that I thought we would continue the fun at home. I let the kids use the leftover supplies from this mornings lesson on Acids, Bases, and Neutrals to make their own chemical reactions. They LOVED it!!! Want to have some Chemistry fun in your own home? Here is what we used:

• Lemon Juice
• Mineral Water
• Baking Soda
• Distilled Water (THIS is important for making the other mixtures)
• Cabbage Juice (Red Cabbage boiled in Distilled Water and Cooled)
• Vinegar
• Antacid Tablets in Distilled Water
• Old Shirts (Cabbage Juice STAINS!)
• Clear Disposable Cups (Disposable Optional, Clear is NOT)

 Allow the kids to start by mixing 2 liquids of their choice (About a 1/4 a cup) and then note the reactions. Both the kids and the chemicals:) They will soon figure out that most of the liquids mixed with the base baking soda will fizz when mixed with an acid such as lemon juice or vinegar. They love watching the colors change when adding the cabbage juice to things, which acts as an indicator. SO fun and so educational. Here are a some pics for proof!

My two little Chemist had a solid hour of fun with this! They really got a kick out of the combinations that erupted:) Well worth the mess on the deck and the $10 in supplies!