purposeful play

Snowstorm in a Jar Science Experiment

winter stem activity for kids

The Snowstorm in a Jar Science Experiment is an incredibly fun, hands-on winter activity for kids.

This STEM activity is absolutely mesmerizing to watch and will keep your kiddos engaged and excited about learning this winter!

This experiment is a perfect book extension activity to pair with the beloved book The Snowy Day.

purpose

  • Fascinating and hands-on way to explore science
  • Explores cause and effect
  • Hands-on way to explore density and polarity
  • Safe way to experiment with carbon dioxide
  • Screen-free fun

Shop this project!

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 the white water into the mason jar filled with baby oil

  • Observe what happens

  • Discuss with your child

  • Add iridescent glitter to the jar 

  • Break an Alka-Seltzer tablet into 4 pieces

  • Drop one piece into the jar

  • Observe the reaction!

  • Ask your child to talk about what they see

  • Add in another piece of tablet

  • Continue to observe and discuss

  • Keep adding in more tablets one at a time

  • Continue as long your child is interested and engaged

Are you looking for more ways to keep your kids learning and engaged at home this Winter? Check out the Winter Printables Collection!

purposeful play

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!

 

purposeful play

More Winter Activities!

Hello there! I'm Sarah Britton and I am so excited you stopped by! Join me as we explore simple yet effective ways to create purposeful play opportunities for your child.

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