Play recipe
Combines science with problem-solving in an engaging sensory experience.
Supervise water play. Ice can be slippery.
Freeze small toys in a tub of water overnight, tip the block into a bin, and hand over warm water, a pinch of salt, and spoons. The job is to get the toys out. Melting is slow enough to keep a preschooler at the bin, and fast enough with salt and warm water that they see cause and effect.
This is science they can feel: ice is hard, salt and warmth make it give up the toy. You do not need a lecture. Narrate what they are doing, the salt is making a hole, and they will copy the language.
Watching ice change with salt and warm water is hands-on cause and effect, plus a lot of scooping and pouring practice.
You'll need: Paper cube or dice, Markers
You'll need: Music (phone or speaker), Clear floor space
You'll need: Aluminum foil, Scissors (adult use)
You'll need: Clear floor space
You'll need: Magnifying glass (optional), Container for temporary observation, Nature area
You'll need: Blanket to lie on, Sunglasses (optional)
Read
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