Thanksgiving…the holiday where we all sit around the table, slowly eating for hours, and talk about all the things we are thankful for. And then you have kids! Kids don’t eat slowly…kids don’t sit still for hours while the adults digest and contemplate seconds (or thirds!). So here is a great STEM craft for you to set up at the kids table to occupy their time.
This activity is based off the STEM Like a Girl February Challenge of the Month where we used chromatography to separate the color molecules in watercolor markers. But this time we can make it into art by making fun colors, patterns, and creatures. This is a great activity for kids of all ages and even adults. (Don’t they say coloring helps reduce stress? Not that the holidays are at all stressful, right?!?!)
Materials you’ll need:
- Coffee filters
- Watercolor markers
- Water
- Decorations like pipe cleaners, google eyes, and pom-poms (optional)
Method:
- Use the watercolor markers to color your coffee filter in whatever pattern you want. We did some with fall colors to make flowers and turkeys, green to make Christmas trees, and then just some fun other designs. (note: you might want to lay down a place mat or a cut open brown paper bag to avoid getting marker on your table)
- Once colored, use a dropper or your fingers to sprinkle the coffee filter with water. Don’t pour it on or use too much because then all the color will dissolve off the filter and into the water. Start slow and you can always sprinkle more on.
- Place the filters on a towel to dry.
- Once dry, decorate, fold, or display your creations!
