How to make a lava lamp with salt or baking sofa

[barefootcook]

I have finally decided on a suitable science experiment to do on Zoom with a group of 8-10 year olds. Making a lava lamp looks ideal. I have trawled through the internet trying to find a good YouTube video that has clear instructions. No luck so far. Ideally the instructions would be spoken with written ones as well. Some of the children will not have adult supervision

I'd really recommend that you make one yourself first, before trying it with a class. We've attempted two now - one from a sparkle science kit and one from internet instructions and both were beyond crap and disappointing, and frankly a waste of oil and ingredients.

I wouldn't reccomend baking your sofa!

We did an ice fishing experiment and that was surprisingly loads of fun - all you need is ice, salt and string.

Oh dear- this doesn't look good. Hopefully someone will come along with a recommendation soon. Will definitely try it out first. Thanks for the advice.

I've seen similar to this done with lemonade where raisins, grapes, popcorn etc can be dropped in to see if they float/sink.

I've seen it done with water, oil and and effervescent tablet (like berocca). Can add food colouring and glitter and try with cold or warm water to see the difference. Look up Glasgow Science Centre on youtube for a demo

We did this while back, and it was fun.

www.sciencefun.org/kidszone/experiments/lava-lamp/

Thank you!

What is the context - a school lesson, or a private arrangement with engaged parents who are able and willing to shop for special ingredients? Or are you providing materials yourself?

My children have only been set very, very simple experiments from home, involving hot water, ice and containers of different materials. I think this is spot on for school. Even if parents are expecting to shop for materials, I think the oil's a bit fiddly for this age group unsupervised. Clean up of a big spill would be a pain.

I am a teacher but it is actually for 5 local kids ( friends of my son's) I am going to try it myself and if all goes well will send their parents the information. I will let you all know too!

I used Crimsonnightlocus's suggestion and it worked 😁

Great result- the trick is to add everything slowly.Thanks for the advice everyone