How do you inject some science into Halloween? By creating an exploding pumpkin, that’s how! Follow the instructions below to create this fun STEM activity at home. Mom, Dad, we hope you’re prepared. You’ll need to take the lead here since not all the required ingredients are kid-friendly. Now, let’s get started!
Materials Needed:
- 1 Cup of Hydrogen Peroxide
- Two Packets of Dry Yeast (one packet is approximately 1/4 oz)
- 6 Tablespoons Warm Water
- Food Coloring
- Cylinder (at least 500 ml). Or you can use a flask that fits your liquid.
- 2 Tablespoons of Dish Soap (any will do)
- A Pumpkin to carve into a Jack O’ Lantern. Simple paw or design so the foam can go through easily.
- Funnel
- Safety Goggles
Note: Adjust the recipe based on the size of your Jack-o’-Lantern. You can double your potions if it’s 10 inches or larger.
Create an Exploding Pumpkin This Halloween
Step 1: Carve your pumpkin Jack O’ Lantern. Remember, adults do the carving!
Step 2: Add the cylinder inside the pumpkin. Have an adult pour the hydrogen peroxide into the cylinder.
Step 3: Ask the kids to add 2 tablespoons of dish soap into the cylinder.
Step 4: Add several drops of food coloring. We used green but you can use any color.
Step 5: Empty your yeast into a bowl and add warm water. Mix well with a fork for 30 seconds.
Step 6: Pour the yeast into the cylinder, step back and watch the foamy magic happen! Be careful not to touch the foam. It’s a product of an exothermic reaction which means it will be extremely hot! After several minutes, it will cool down.
Step 7: When you are done, simply rinse out all ingredients in the sink since they are safe to drain.
Find the printable instructions here
More From Great Wolf Lodge
We hope you had fun with this exploding pumpkin activity! Be sure to explore our blog for other ways to celebrate Halloween this year. We have tons of activities to help the whole family get into the spirit. You can also check out our Howl-O-Ween event here at the lodge. From storytime to costume parades, get ready for a fa-BOO0-lous time!
