How to Make Oobleck

Oobleck is a super cool sensory activity that’s also an exciting science experiment, perfect for kids and adults of all ages. As I was planning for a Dr. Seuss theme, I knew we needed to include Bartholomew and the Oobleck. This simple Oobleck recipe will have your children enjoying slimy, gooey sensory play full of science lessons.

Dr. Seuss Science Activities

Every March, Read Across America inspires us to read more and enjoy Dr. Seuss activities and crafts. It’s always so much fun to pair a great book with a fun preschool science experiment and fun activities.

Oobleck Slime

When I was younger, I was obsessed with the thought of quicksand. I’m not exactly sure what movie or book put the fear in my head, but every time I would run through the woods with my friends I would think about what I would do if I got stuck.

Oobleck is very similar to quicksand and has been so much fun to make and enjoy with my children.

Is Oobleck a liquid or a solid?

Over the years we’ve played with many cool sensory activities, but Oobleck is one of a kind. Not a liquid, not a solid, It is called Non-Newtonian fluids.

Wikipedia states “A non-Newtonian fluid is a fluid that does not follow Newton’s law of viscosity” Click here to read more about what a non-Newtonian fluid is.

When you apply pressure to the oobleck by squeezing it or balling it up in your hands, it increases its thickness. But, a light touch or place your hand slowly into the oobleck mixture and your fingers will slip and slide right through.

Moving slowly with your hands will give the cornstarch particles time to move out of the way.

What materials do you need to make Oobleck?

What you will need to make your oobleck is in this picture below. However, I have it displayed in a recipe list form to print out towards the bottom of the page. Have Fun!

It only takes 2 ingredients
Corn Starch
Water
Food Coloring is optional