Rain in a jar is one of the easiest science activities you can do with your kids. It’s suitable for at home or even a whole classroom full of children. With a few common materials, you can put this play idea together in under 5 minutes.
Weather science is a fun topic to teach kids. Even toddlers and preschoolers can understand it because they see it everyday. It affects how they dress, how they play and introduces them to some wonderful play-based learning.
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Weather Science for Kids
One of my favorite science activities for kids is the Indoor Water Cycle Science Activity. With a few kitchen items you can turn saltwater into freshwater, making the water go through the whole water cycle in a way the kids can both see, and later taste.
If you’re heading into the rainy season be sure to learn How to make a Rain Gauge. This is one of the most simple weather activities for kids that is often overlooked. Not only do you get to head outside and spend time in nature, but your toddlers and preschoolers will also start to recognize numbers and learn a bit of simple maths along the way.
For more ideas, read Simple Weather Science Experiments for Kids
Materials Needed
- A clear jug
- Water
- Shaving cream
- Blue food coloring
How to Make a Rain in a Jar Science Activity
Step 1: Fill a clear plastic jug 2/3rd with water.
2. Place a layer of shaving foam on the top of the water. This will represent the cloud.
3. Drip several drops of food coloring onto the top of the shaving foam.
As the drops of food coloring slowly hit the water, they will create swirling patterns as they fall. Looking like rain. You can also try this activity using lots of different colors and make a rainbow instead.
Are you going to try this Rain in a Jar activity with your kids?
Don’t forget to Pin the idea for later.