I love science--especially messy, hands-on science. This past year, I wanted to find some more messy, hands-on activities that would allow my students to practice the rules on our Science Safety Contract and get really, really excited about science at the same time.
So I tried this activity on Pinterest: GLITTER SLIME
(I used white glue. Because I'm cheap and didn't want to buy clear glue. The kids loved it just the same. We also used neon food coloring.)
My kids got to practice listening and following directions...
Measuring...
Stirring...
More measuring...
More stirring....
Mushing...
Squishing...
I guess we could just go over the rules again and make another anchor chart. But seriously...look at that face!
We constantly reviewed the rules on our science safety contract...listening carefully, following all directions, not touching anything without permission, and definitely not tasting anything!
The kids recorded their experiences in their science notebooks. You can download the recording sheet here:
Download Science Notebook_Slime
I even included the recipe if they wanted to try it at home.
Definitely the best time I've had practicing the rules in a while!
Safety Note: The above recipe uses Borax, which you can find in the laundry aisle. It is not the same thing as Boric Acid, which I would never let kindergartners use. But it is still a chemical. I did a lot of research (as in googling) to see if it was safe for kids. I feel comfortable doing this activity with my students. The American Chemical Society even has a similar recipe on their website here (and I guess they would know, right?)
Make sure the kids do not eat any of the ingredients. Make sure they wash their hands after playing with the slime. And always check and follow your school and district policies about using potentially hazardous materials in the classroom!
So happy you are back! I love all your posts and am so glad you are happy at your new school. Blog away and we will enjoy! :)
Posted by: Christina | 07/15/2013 at 08:01 PM
I loved the downloads! Thank you. I can't wait to use them.
Posted by: Ruby | 07/15/2013 at 10:43 PM
So excited to see a post from you. I get lots of emails from blogs that I don't always have time to open but I ran right to this one. I LOVE <3 your posts and creations! You must be a kindred spirit ;) Thank you for sharing.
Posted by: Heidi B | 07/16/2013 at 07:16 AM
So glad you are back! :)
Posted by: Christy | 07/17/2013 at 02:38 PM
We tried this recipe for the first time this year... and my kids also LOVED it! We made it for oobleck during Dr. Seuss week--SO FUN!
Karen :o)
Mrs. Stamp's Kindergarten
Posted by: Mrs. Stamp's Kindergarten | 07/19/2013 at 01:44 PM
This will be so much fun for our kinders. Thank you for giving the wonderful post, recipe and reflection page.
Posted by: Karen Cassels | 07/19/2013 at 02:56 PM
LOVE your blog..so glad you're back at it! Did you have the kids doing this all at the same time, small groups or individually??
Posted by: PhylisW | 07/21/2013 at 07:26 PM
I wondered the same thing, How many of those small 2 oz containers will each recipe make? Did they make in it small groups and just take turns. Love your blog and I can't wait to use this activity this week with my firsties!!
Heather
Kickin' It With Class
Posted by: Heather | 09/02/2013 at 12:22 PM