How to Make Oobleck for Kids

If your kids love to make slime, they will have a blast learning how to make oobleck. You only need 2 ingredients and this fun activity also doubles as a really neat science experiment.

We have a blast creating new things and learning how to make Oobleck did not disappoint. This fun activity only requires 2 ingredients and both kids and adults will enjoy this craft.

The kids were bored one day and since we already had what we needed in the cabinet, we decided to make it. The kids had so much making this and even more fun playing with it.

Making Oobleck is also a great way to have fun with the kids while also learning . If you need a fun science activity, this is such a great one to try.

It is inexpensive to make and does not require much work or supplies.

What is oobleck?

Oobleck is a non-Newtonian liquid. So what does that mean? It means that oobleck has properties of both liquids and solids. It is also great for sensory play.

Now you know the definition and that oobleck is a non newtonian fluid. The name originates from the dr seuss book bartholomew and the oobleck.

In the book, oobleck falls from the sky. One idea is to read the book and make this a fun activity with your children.

Is Oobleck a liquid or a solid?

It is actually both. Ok, you might be wondering how does that work? That is what makes this substance so much fun!

You can squeeze it together and form a ball and it will seem like it is a solid. However, if you stick your finger in the mixture, it feels like a liquid.

Let the kids form the substance into a ball. Once they stop playing with it, it will lose its shape and turn into a liquid. 

Can u eat Oobleck?

It is not poisonous as it is just cornstarch and water. However, it sure won’t taste good. We do not recommend digesting this.

Can you make oobleck with flour?

No, you can’t use flour. You need a starchy flour like arrowroot flour or cornstarch to make this. Flour will not provide the right consistency or desired texture

Oobleck Ingredients

• 2 cups of cornstarch
• 1 cup of water
• Food Coloring (Optional)

How to Make Oobleck:

• Step 1. First, go ahead and add the drops of food coloring to the water. Skip this step if you don’t plan to add food coloring.
  
  You can choose any color you prefer or leave it out if you opt not to make colored oobleck. We like to make different colors and even rainbow oobleck with food colouring. This is a fun option instead of the regular gooey green substance.

• Step 2. Next, stir the water into the corn starch until the oobleck mixture is formed. Continue to add more cornstarch until all of it is combined. It is 2 parts cornstarch to 1 part water.

• Step 3. Finally, mix it all together with a spoon and that is all you do to make a batch of oobleck. This oobleck recipe is very simple.

How to make oobleck with baking soda:

If you choose to substitute baking soda for the cornstarch, just use 1 part room temperature water to 2 parts baking soda.

Oobleck with borax:

Using borax is possible but you need a few more ingredients if going this route. You will need 1 teaspoon of borax, 8 oz of glue and 4 oz of water. Note: Make sure the water is warm for best results.

How do you create Oobleck in a Ziplock bag?

Instead of mixing everything in the measuring cup, use a ziplock bag instead. When ready to mix, seal the bag and shake until mixed. Apply pressure to combine well.

This is a great method if you don’t want to dirty up any bowls. It is also great for keeping little hands clean so they can help make this fun DIY.

How Long Does Oobleck Last?

It will last about 24 hours if you store oobleck inside an airtight container. I don’t recommend keeping it much longer as it can begin to mold.

Dispose of oobleck if signs of mold or decay appear sooner. Make sure children have clean hands when playing with this substance. It will help this non-Newtonian fluid last the full 24 hours.

Try these other fun diy ideas:

• Koolaid playdough
• How to make Fluffy Slime
• Silly Putty – This is one of the best crafts and diy.
• Learn how to make floam
• how to make slime for kids that is calming