Bubbles aren’t just thin spheres of liquid enclosing air or another gas. Bubbles are fun.
Incredibly, playing with bubbles develops…
- Math Skills, by counting and comparing sizes and shapes
- Movement and Muscle Development, by poking them, clapping to pop them, jumping on them and running to catch them
- Science skills, by experimenting with store-bought bubbles and making your own (recipe below)
- Language, by describing and having back-and-forth bubble conversations
- Fine Motor Skills, by creating your own bubble wands (below)
- Calming Down Strategy, by blowing air out through your mouth
Time to grab a few things and get your bubbles on!
Bubble Wands.
You need: chenille stems (aka pipe cleaners), pony beads
To Do: Twist a knot on one end of your chenille stem. Make it large enough so the beads won’t fall off. Thread on beads. Leave enough space to shape a circle at the top. Once you’ve created the circle at the top, twist the tip of the top to secure it.
Bonus: Since the chenille stem is bendable, you can vary the shape of your bubble wand. Ask: Does changing the shape of your bubble wand change the shape of your bubbles?
Homemade Bubble Solution.
You need: Dawn dishwashing liquid, sugar, water, bowl
To Do: In a bowl, mix 1/2 cup water, 1/4 cup Dawn, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Gently mix, trying not to make bubbles (Oh, the irony!)
And, here’s a book suggestion for you, Bubble Trouble
(Margaret Mahy/Patty Dunbar). It’s a wacky adventure of a little baby stuck in a large bubble. What will everyone do to help?
The best things about blowing bubbles? Deep breathing and deepening connections.