This is a fun STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) activity that introduces your little one to science concepts.
Ages: 18M+
Development Focus:
STEM, cognitive development, fine motor skills
Children are naturally curious and inquisitive so STEM play based activities are a great way to nurture this curiosity.
STEM activities give your little ones opportunities to explore and to learn through play.
All you need for this hidden colours activity is a muffin tray, baking (bicarbonate) soda, food color, vinegar and squirt bottle/eye dropper.
Involve your child in the activity from the very beginning.
First have your child pour the food colour into each slot of the muffin tray. Then help them measure and pour the baking soda on top of the food colour.
For older children, Explain the science concept as you observe the reaction between the vinegar and baking soda.
TIPS:
1. Prepare your activity space in advance. Spread out a drop sheet because this activity involves food colour.
2. Watch this video tutorial before the activity.
The Science Behind this Experiment:
The reaction is known as an 'Acid-Base' reaction. Baking soda is a base, and vinegar is an acid.
The water in the vinegar acts as a host where the base and acid react. During the reaction, when the baking soda is mixed with the vinegar, the baking soda (base) takes a proton from the vinegar (acid).
The reaction causes the baking soda to transform into water and carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide is a gas which is released during the reaction, which gives it the bubbling effect (as seen in this experiment).