Prepare to embark on a colorful journey of both science and hands-on sensory exploration as we delve into the world of color mixing for kids! 

Oobleck Color Mixing Station Sensory Play

Sensory play has long been recognized as a powerful tool for early childhood development, stimulating young minds while igniting their creativity.

In our sensory table adventure, we’re combining the enchantment of colors with the tactile wonder of Oobleck—a fascinating non-Newtonian fluid. This hands-on activity not only introduces budding scientists to the magic of color blending but also engages their senses in a thrilling, messy adventure. Keep reading to discover the incredible benefits of sensory play and the captivating world of primary and secondary colors!

All activities should be supervised by an adult. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links.

Prep Time: 

Watch This Color Mixing for Kids Activity in Action!

No doubt this activity can get pretty messy, but there is a wealth of learning opportunities. While some grown ups may instinctively shy away from mess, it’s important to recognize that this very messiness is an integral part of the learning process.

As children dive their hands into the colorful world of Oobleck, they engage their senses fully, sparking curiosity and igniting their creativity. This tactile experience isn’t just about fun; it’s about immersion.

The squishy, gooey sensation of Oobleck becomes a canvas for understanding colors on a deeper level. The unpredictability of mixing primary colors to form secondary hues provides a firsthand lesson in color theory, reinforcing concepts while making them memorable.

So, fear not the mess—embrace it as the vibrant pathway to a richer understanding of colors and a world of sensory delight.

How to Make Oobleck

Crafting your very own batch of Oobleck is a simple and magical process that can be as much fun as the sensory play itself. To get started, all you need are two basic ingredients: cornstarch and water. Step-by-step instructions below!

Oobleck, the mesmerizing non-Newtonian fluid, is a captivating lesson in science. When pressure is applied to Oobleck, the starch particles in the mixture resist movement, causing it to temporarily solidify. However, as soon as that pressure is released, the starch particles relax, and the substance reverts to a liquid state. This unique property makes Oobleck an exceptional material for demonstrating the principles of viscosity and fluid dynamics.

Its gooey, yet fluid nature makes it an ideal canvas for color exploration. Children can experiment with different combinations, observing how red and blue transform into vibrant purple, or how yellow and blue blend into soothing green.

• Liquid Watercolor
• Cups for Mixing

• Sensory table
• Cornstarch
• Water
• Liquid Watercolor
• Cups for Mixing

Step 2

In addition to letting the kids feel how this changes from a solid to a liquid and back to a solid, create primary colors (red, blue, and yellow), and task your kids with mixing them to discover secondary colors (orange, green, and purple) and other tints and shades! 

Step 1

Combine 2 cups cornstarch and 1 cup water, plus food coloring. Begin by taking a mixing bowl and adding cornstarch. Slowly pour water into the cornstarch while stirring until you achieve the desired consistency. Feel free to experiment with the proportions of cornstarch and water to find the perfect texture that captivates your young learners.

Step 2

In addition to letting the kids feel how this changes from a solid to a liquid and back to a solid, create primary colors (red, blue, and yellow), and task your kids with mixing them to discover secondary colors (orange, green, and purple) and other tints and shades!

This STEM-based activity not only promotes critical thinking but also nurtures a lifelong curiosity for the STEM disciplines, setting the stage for future exploration and discovery.

Cultivating STEM Enthusiasm Through Color Mixing for Kids

The color mixing Oobleck activity is a prime example of a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) activity that seamlessly blends science with hands-on exploration. By delving into the unique properties of non-Newtonian fluids, children engage with scientific principles such as viscosity, fluid dynamics, and material science.

They experiment, hypothesize, and observe as they learn how Oobleck transforms from a liquid to a solid with the application of pressure and returns to its liquid state when that pressure is released. Moreover, as they mix primary colors to create secondary hues, they gain a foundational understanding of color theory—an essential concept in both art and science.

This STEM-based activity not only promotes critical thinking but also nurtures a lifelong curiosity for the STEM disciplines, setting the stage for future exploration and discovery.