oshc activities
Science Day / Salt Crystal Pipe Cleaners

Salt Crystal Pipe Cleaners

Older children make pipe cleaner shapes and hang them in a strong salt solution to grow crystals overnight.

How to run it

  1. Bend pipe cleaners into shapes and tie each to a pencil with string.
  2. An educator dissolves salt or Epsom salt in hot water until no more dissolves.
  3. Pour the cooled warm solution into jars and hang shapes inside without touching the sides.
  4. Leave overnight and check the crystals the next day.

You will need

  • pipe cleaners
  • string
  • pencils
  • table salt or Epsom salt
  • warm water
  • clear jars
Make it easier or harderYounger children help and watch, while older children compare salt types and crystal growth.
SafetyBorax is not used; educators handle hot water and children wash hands after.
My Time Our Place · Outcome 4Children observe change over time and practise scientific recording.

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