In school-age 2, the children had a science experiment and made fake snow using baking soda and conditioner. Gavin tried making the fake snow first. He said, "It looks like snow, but it doesn't feel like snow. Because it's fake. But that means I can make whatever I want!" Gavin then proceeded to make a snow castle out of the fake snow! He invited some friends to look at the snow castle he made, then they expressed interest in playing with fake snow.
The educator told them the exact measurements on how to make fake snow, and each child made their own fake snow but they ended up adjusting the measurements to get the texture they each wanted. Korah said, "Mine is too watery. I need more baking soda." Willa wanted her fake snow to be easier to mold, so she added more conditioner.
The children had different opinions about the texture of the fake snow. Elliot said, "It feels soft! And weird." Korah said, "It's so squishy!" Andrea said, "It's yucky." Then, Korah said, "Andrea, Willa, can we combine our fake snow and make one big snowman? Please!" Willa and Andrea agreed, and the children had fun making a big snowman and decorating it with beads.
Through this activity, the children were able to explore the sensory properties of fake snow. The children also developed their observation and reasoning skills as well as their mathematical skills by measuring the materials on their own and adjusting it to their liking. They also showed teamwork and coordination by playing with each other and working together to create their snowman!
