I have a huge heart for children of all ages, but my passion lies with educating the really little guys. I am thoroughly enjoying being a mom, but what makes it even more fun is that I get to do all sorts of educational activities with my son, who's currently three-years-old and absorbs information like a little sponge. I do believe however that preschoolers should learn through play and that formal education should be kept for the primary school years and up. 

This is why I keep our learning activities fun! I stick to things that will tickle their senses, develop life skills and teach sciences, logic and problem solving in a relaxed manner where the child is control of the speed and rate at which he or she would like to learn. 

So, on this note I bring to you one of our recent learning activities that was a huge hit that will definitely be repeated:

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FIZZING ICE CUBES

Children of all ages will enjoy this one really and it is not only limited to the littlies. This nifty bit of science is so conveniently affordable as well, which is always a bonus! In fact, you are very likely to have all the materials and ingredients in your cupboards already.

The secret ingredients:

• Water
• Vinegar
• Baking Soda
• Ice Tray
• Food colouring (optional)
• A sensory play bin, tray or bucket

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Preparation and Instructions:

1. This activity needs to be prepped a few hours beforehand, preferably overnight.
2. Mix about a liter of water with 5 table spoons of baking soda.
3. Pour the mixture into your ice tray.
4. If you like you can add a few drops of different food colouring to each cube in the tray.
5. Freeze until solid.
6. Just before play time, allow them to defrost slightly.
7. Add some vinegar to a bowl and let your little one/s spoon it over the ice cubes.
8. Let the fizzing action begin!
9. Let two different ice cubes fizz together to make a brand-new colour!

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THE SCIENCE BIT

Vinegar (an acid) and bicarbonate of soda (an alkali) react together to neutralise each other. This reaction releases carbon dioxide, a gas which is the bubbles you see. - http://www.science-sparks.com/2013/07/22/baking-soda-ice-cubes/

Source Link: http://www.bandbsnestinteriors.com/mg/399768/zk5z4a-ideal-vinegar-growing/399659/

This is just another example of how science can be so simple and that kids are never too young to be introduced to the subject! There are so many things that you can do with two basic ingredients: vinegar and baking soda. These two items open up an array of experiments that can safely be done at home or at school with young children so that they can begin to grasp the theory behind chemical reactions, and more!

Have FUN with the little guys!

Much love - @sweetpea

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