Learn how to create beautiful crystals at home with this simple step-by-step guide. Perfect for kids ages 8-12, this experiment teaches science and creativity!
Creating crystals can be a fun and educational experiment. In this guide, we will cover how to grow your own crystals using common materials found around the house. This activity is suitable for kids ages 8 to 12, but adult supervision may be required.
Pour 1 cup of water into the heat-resistant container and heat it on the stove until it starts to boil. Carefully add 3-4 cups of sugar (or salt) to the water, stirring continuously until it dissolves completely. You can also add a few drops of food coloring at this stage if you wish.
Keep adding sugar (or salt) until no more will dissolve. This means you have made a saturated solution. An easy test is to add sugar until it settles at the bottom and doesn’t dissolve anymore.
Remove the container from heat and let the solution cool slightly for about 10 minutes. It should still be warm but not boiling.
While the solution cools, tie one end of the string to the middle of the pencil or stick. Place the pencil across the top of the glass or jar so that the string hangs down into the solution without touching the bottom.
Carefully pour the sugar solution into the glass or jar, ensuring that the string hangs into the liquid.
Put the jar in a quiet place and let it sit undisturbed for several days. Over time, you will notice crystals forming on the string and at the bottom of the jar.
Check the crystals daily. Observe the size and formation. You can create a journal to note any changes and what you see!
After about 1 week, the crystals should be well-formed. Carefully remove the string from the jar and let your crystals dry on a paper towel. Enjoy your beautiful creations!
This crystal-growing experiment is a great way to learn about science through observation and creativity. Not only do you get to make something beautiful, but you also get to understand the crystallization process!