oshc activities
Winter Wonderland / Ice Block Castle

Ice Block Castle

Children build a castle from frozen ice blocks, using salt and water to help blocks stick together.

How to run it

  1. The day before, freeze water in containers of different shapes, adding food colouring if desired.
  2. Turn the ice blocks out onto a tray outdoors.
  3. Have children stack blocks into a castle, sprinkling salt to help them fuse.
  4. Watch the castle melt and talk about why.

You will need

  • ice blocks in various containers
  • freezer
  • trays
  • salt
  • food colouring (optional)
  • gloves
Make it easier or harderUse larger blocks for younger children; older children can time melting with and without salt.
SafetyProvide gloves for handling ice and keep salt away from eyes and cuts.
My Time Our Place · Outcome 4Children experiment with materials and observe changes.

Fits these theme days

Winter WonderlandPolar DayWater Play DayScience DayChristmas in July

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