Making homemade laundry soap

History

• The child learned about the history of soap making and how it was traditionally done by hand.
• They discovered that homemade laundry soap was commonly used in the past when commercial options were not available.
• They explored the historical significance of soap in terms of personal hygiene and cleanliness.
• The child gained an understanding of how soap making has evolved over time.

Math

• The child practiced measuring and following precise measurements while making the homemade laundry soap.
• They learned about the ratios and proportions needed to create a balanced and effective soap mixture.
• They applied basic arithmetic skills to calculate the costs of ingredients and compare them to store-bought options.
• The child honed their understanding of fractions and percentages when adjusting the recipe for different batch sizes.

Science

• The child learned about the chemical reactions involved in soap making, specifically the saponification process.
• They gained knowledge about the properties and functions of different ingredients used in laundry soap, such as oils and lye.
• The child explored concepts of pH levels and how they affect the effectiveness of the soap.
• They developed an understanding of how surfactants work to remove dirt and stains from clothes.

Continued development related to this activity can include experimenting with different recipes and variations of homemade laundry soap. The child can explore the effects of adding scents or dyes to the soap, or even try making soap bars instead of liquid detergent. They can also research and learn about sustainable and eco-friendly soap-making practices to further their understanding of the subject.

Book Recommendations

• The Soap Book: Simple Herbal Recipes by Sandy Maine: This book provides detailed instructions and recipes for making a variety of homemade soaps, including laundry soap. It also includes information on the history and benefits of natural soap making.
• The Science of Soap: Investigate Materials and Chemical Reactions by Carla Mooney: This book explores the science behind soap making, including the chemical reactions and properties of different ingredients. It includes hands-on experiments and activities for further learning.
• From Scratch: How to Make Your Own Everything by Temi Oyelola: While not specifically focused on soap making, this book offers a range of DIY projects including making household products from scratch. It includes step-by-step instructions and tips for homemade laundry soap.