What's better than low-maintenance, mess-free play? Bubble foam is a seriously fun activity that's engaging for both toddlers and preschoolers. Taking this activity outside helps keep things even lower maintenance, and adding a car lets kids engage in some serious pretend play! Plus, it’s a genius way to wash those outdoor toys that tend to collect layers of dirt and grime.
Materials:
- Tear free soap
- Water
- Food coloring
- Hand mixer
- Containers and bowls
Instructions:
- Mix two parts water to one part tear free soap. Have older kids work on math skills by having them measure out each ingredient! They can also work on their motor control by pouring each element into a bowl.
- Add 1-2 drops of food coloring. This is a great chance to have kids work on language skills by labeling the colors they observe or want to use!
- Beat on high with a hand mixer until peaks form. This part should be done under constant adult supervision!
- Repeat with multiple colors.
- Take all of the foam and add it in rows to a large container. Provide kids with a sponge and some water and let them entertain themselves all afternoon by washing their cars or outdoor toys. Washing items with sponges helps to strengthen the same muscles in a child’s wrists and hands that they’ll eventually use in the future for writing and skills like shoe tying. This activity also helps kids work on cause and effect and sequencing- once they add the bubbles to their cars, help them notice that they’ll need to use water to remove them!
Extensions & Adjustments:
- You can easily wash smaller scale vehicles or animal figures if you don't have a larger car on hand!
Skills areas addressed:
- Pre-math skills
- Motor control
- Imaginative play
- Fine motor strengthening
- Language development
- Sequencing