Materials
large pages from a book about shells or a placemat featuring shells
assorted shells
baskets
sentence strips
marker
laminate
box with lid
Instructions
1. Place a large bowl and mixing spoons in the middle of a low table.
2. Surround the bowl with small portions of the listed materials in Styrofoam
bowls or cups. Place a plastic spoon in each of the bowls.
3. Invite small groups of children to visit the center to create a "wizard's
potion." Encourage them to add ingredients, one at a time, to the large bowl.
4. Ask questions such as, "How does this ingredient look? How does it smell?
What do you think will happen when you mix it with _____?" "What shall we
call the potion?" What happens when the vinegar is added to the potion?" (A
chemical reaction with bubbling may occur).
5. Record the children's responses on chart paper and title it "Wizard's Wacky
Potion."
More to do Art: Make a whipped soap potion by gradually adding 1/2 cup soap flakes to 1/4
cup water. Use an eggbeater to whip it to a fluffy consistency and use as thick
paint on heavy paper.