Launchpad - Introducing the topic (10–20 mins)
Step 1Either run a bath for the child or create a wet zone they can use for water play. If using a wet zone, give the child a bowl with water in it. Also provide them with a whisk and dishwashing liquid or bubble bath.
Step 2Ask the child if they know what bubbles are and where they have seen them before (e.g. bath time, washing dishes). Add a small amount of dishwashing liquid/bubble bath to the water and gently mix it with your finger. Ask the child to observe what happens to the water.
Discover - Exploring the topic (20–30 mins)
Step 1Hand the whisk to the child and ask them to stir the water very slowly. Encourage them to describe what they see. Ask, ‘Are there any bubbles forming?’ Explain that the liquid is mixing with the water but the slow motion doesn’t create many bubbles.
Step 2Ask the child to gradually increase the speed of stirring. Observe together how the number and size of the bubbles change as they stir faster. Explain how the motion of the whisk traps air in the soap mixture, creating bubbles.
If doing the activity in a bath, allow the child to use their hands to create bubbles by splashing or moving the water quickly. Compare the bubbles formed by hand with those created by a whisk.
Step 3Conduct variations of the experiment by adding more or less dishwashing liquid/bubble bath and by moving the whisk in different ways (shallow, deep, big circles and tight circles).
Showcase
Make
Record a video documenting the activity, including interviews with those involved sharing their insights and reflections. This may include filming each step of the flower-pressing process or the child explaining the parts of the flower that they have labelled on their flower-press diagram.
Compile photos, drawings and notes from the activity into a scrapbook, highlighting what has been learned and enjoyed.
Use materials from the activity to build a model or prototype of something related to the topic, fostering hands-on learning and creativity.
Create a game related to the activity, such as a trivia game or charades, to reinforce learning in a fun way.
Play
Set up simple hands-on experiments or demonstrations that promote repeated practice, discussion and ongoing investigation.
Encourage imaginative play using clothes, toys or props related to the concept and let them role-play scenarios that reinforce their understanding.
Create a sensory box filled with materials related to the topic and let them explore, touch, feel and manipulate the items freely.
Sing songs (known or made up) and encourage dancing or movement in ways that explore or mimic the concepts being explored.
Write
If the activity involved a visit to a museum or community centre, write thank-you notes to any instructors or organisers, reflecting on what has been learned.
Collaborate on writing a fictional story or play inspired by the themes or concepts explored during the activity.
Reflect on what has been learned during the activity and write letters to be opened at a later date, sharing thoughts, goals and aspirations.
If the activity involved outdoor exploration, begin a nature journal to document future outdoor adventures and observations.
Plan
Brainstorm ideas for a follow-up activity or experiment inspired by what has been learned during the initial activity.
Take time to reflect on how the activity could inspire new goals, discussing ways to incorporate similar experiences into your routine in the future.
If the activity involved a specific topic or field of study, reach out to experts or professionals for interviews or Q&A sessions to deepen understanding.
If you enjoyed the activity, why not share it with other families within your community? Plan a workshop or invite a friend over to re-create the experience and share your new knowledge.