purposeful play
Snowstorm in a Jar Science Experiment
winter stem activity for kids
(Originally published January 2021. Updated January 2026
The Snowstorm in a Jar Science Experiment is a simple, hands-on winter activity that instantly captures students’ attention.
Watching the “snow” swirl and settle inside the jar feels a little magical, making this winter science activity especially engaging for preschool, Pre-K, and kindergarten learners. It’s a calm but exciting way to explore weather concepts while building early STEM skills.
This experiment fits perfectly into any winter unit and pairs well with other winter activities for preschool.
NGSS Connection:
This experiment supports early NGSS practices by helping students observe changes, make predictions, and explore cause and effect through hands-on science.
This experiment also works beautifully as a book extension activity to pair with The Snowy Day, helping students connect science learning to a familiar winter story.
purpose
A fascinating, hands-on way for children to explore science
Encourages observation and cause-and-effect thinking
Introduces early concepts of density and polarity in a visual, kid-friendly way
Allows students to safely observe carbon dioxide in action
directions
How to Make a
Snowstorm in a Jar
Fill a mason jar 3/4 full with baby oil
Add several drops of paint to 1/4 cup of water
Mix well
The water should be white
Pour into jar
Add iridescent glitter to the jar
Break an Alka-Seltzer tablet into 4 pieces
Drop one piece into the jar
Observe the reaction!
Add in another piece of tablet
Continue to observe and discuss
Keep adding in more tablets one at a time
What is the Science Behind the
Snowstorm in a Jar Science Experiment?
After the white water and oil are added to the jar, the oil floats above the water because it is lighter than water (it has a lower density).
The water and oil do not ever mix because of polarity. Water is polar and oil is non-polar.
When the tablet is added and dissolves-a gas is created (carbon dioxide).
Carbon dioxide is lighter than water so it floats up to the surface bringing a bit of the white water with it. The white water travels through the baby oil in beads because the water and oil can not mix.
Once the gas bubble reaches the surface it breaks and the colored water floats back to the bottom of the jar!
Quick FAQ: Snowstorm in a Jar Science Experiment
Is Snowstorm in a Jar safe for preschool and kindergarten?
Yes. When prepared by an adult and used with supervision, this experiment is a safe and engaging way for young children to explore science concepts.
How long does the experiment take?
The setup takes just a few minutes, and the experiment bubbles for several minutes as the tablet dissolves. The reaction can continue as long as additional Alka-Seltzer tablets are added, making it perfect for whole-group or small-group science time.
Do you have to use baby oil?
No, you don’t have to use baby oil. Vegetable oil works just as well as a simple substitute.
Teacher Tips
Encourage students to make predictions before starting the experiment and describe what they notice as it happens.
Model simple scientific language such as observe, predict, change, and storm.
For younger learners, treat this as a guided observation rather than an independent activity.
Pair the experiment with a winter read-aloud or a short drawing/writing reflection for extension.
Winter Science Made Simple
Winter science doesn’t have to be complicated to be meaningful.
Simple experiments like Snowstorm in a Jar give students the chance to observe, wonder, and think like scientists while keeping learning engaging and manageable during long winter days.
With just a few materials and a little curiosity, you can create moments that feel both exciting and purposeful.
If you’re looking for more ideas like this, be sure to explore these winter-themed hot cocoa activities for preschool and kindergarten, where you’ll find additional hands-on experiments and classroom-friendly ideas to keep winter learning going strong.
