momstown Mississauga Moms and Kids get Silly with Science Experiments

At our Little Scientists program this month, momstown Mississauga moms and kids got silly and experimented making a childhood classic toy - Silly Putty. 

This magical stuff is surprisingly easy to make. 

Single Serving Recipe: 

2 oz glue

1/4 tsp Borax 

1/2 cup water

food colouring. 

Stir together 1/2 tsp of Borax detergent with 1/2 cup of water to dissolve. 

In a mixing bowl or small cup, measure in 2 oz of glue (a small bottle) and add a splash of water to make it  fluid. Add a couple of drops of food colouring to make the desired colour. To include more science principals, explore colour mixing and talk about how to make the kids favourite shades. 

silly putty 

Next stirring constantly,  add in the water and borax solution. While stirring, the glue's molecules will stick together turning into a slimy gooey fluid solid. As the kids mix and stir if there is a little extra water, pour it off into a separate mixing bowl.

Now the fun! Dump out the blob and start to work it. For the true experience get squishing right in  your palm. For the mess averse dump the blob into a ziploc bag, zip it up and squeeze. As the stuff firms up it becomes elastic and  can be taken out of the bag. It will dry off as the kids stretch and pull it. 

We had a great time getting messy and learned about how silly putty is a viscous liquid over a long time period but an elastic solid over a short time period. 

When we made snowmen, or created other food 'art' the pieces slowly melted back into a blob.  When scrunched up into a tight ball and dropped from a height, the silly putty breaks apart. When stretched it can reach a great length. 

We meet monthly for our Little Scientists program geared to ages 2.5 and up. If you would like to join in the fun you can buy your momstown Mississauga membership here (Gift Certificates are available here ) or visit our website to sign up for a free 4 week Trial Membership.