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Sink or Float?

In this fun and interactive science experiment, we’ll transform into mini scientists! Using a bowl of water and some small objects found around the house, we’ll predict whether these items sink or float when dropped into the water. We’ll test our predictions and learn about buoyancy. Get ready for some splashing good fun!
Sink or Float? - Kids activities

Summary

Appropriate kid’s energy level

Calm

Skill(s) developed

Memory & Attention, Problem-solving, Sensory

Prep time

3 minutes

Type of activity

Science

Appropriate setting(s)

Both indoors and outdoors

Material(s) needed

Bowl, Water, Small objects like stone, leaf, plastic lid, sponge, Paper and pencil for chart, Materials for boat building

Easy mode

In the easy mode, we’ll simply drop various items into the bowl of water and observe if they sink to the bottom or float on the top. This is a great way to start understanding the concept of sinking and floating.

Hard mode

In the hard mode, we’ll make our experiment a bit more challenging. Before dropping the items into the water, we’ll make a guess chart, predicting which items will sink and which will float. After testing, we’ll sort the objects into ‘sink’ and ‘float’ groups.

Challenge mode

Ready for a real challenge? Let’s create a mini boat out of materials we can find around the house! After building it, we’ll test if it floats and see how much weight it can carry before sinking.

Some prompts to encourage the kid

  • Ready to dive into some scientific fun?
  • Let’s predict – will it sink or will it float? Only one way to find out!
  • Ahoy, Captain! How much can your boat carry without sinking?
  • You’re a real scientist in the making!
  • Amazing job! You’re making waves with your discoveries!

Important things to keep in mind

  • This activity not only introduces children to the basic concept of buoyancy, but also encourages prediction and observation skills
  • It’s a fun way to incorporate STEM learning in a hands-on, playful manner.

More ideas to support your Screen-Free journey

Loved this activity? Explore our thoughtful guides for raising curious, independent kids:

Check out our comprehensive guides on screen-free parenting.

Why we created Screen Free Kids?

We’re parents, just like you – trying to raise curious, creative kids in a world full of screens. Screen Free Kids started as a personal project to rediscover simple, joyful ways to play, learn, and connect. Now, we share those ideas with thousands of families  – through thoughtful activities, parenting guides, and a book full of inspiration. More about us.

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We’ve gathered our screen free parenting guide + all our screen-free favorites into one easy-to-use collection. Perfect for busy days, travel, or when you just need a quick idea. Full of low-prep, mess-free activities, all organized by kid's energy level. Available for Kindle, as a PDF, or as a beautifully printed book (in select countries).
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