How to Make Lava Lamps for Kids

With more and more kids today becoming very obsessed with their video games, parents are looking for ways by which they can channel these restless energies into worthwhile and creative pursuits. One way to do it is by teaching them how to make lava lamps for kids.

Why Make Lava Lamps For Kids?

You are probably wondering why even make a lamp when there are kids lava lamps for sale. Of course, there are indeed lava lamps for kids that are being sold by light and lamp distributors on the Internet today. Most of these lamps are not real lava lamps that use heated wax. Because of the delicate nature of these fixtures, plus the potential hazards posed by the hot wax and heat-producing mechanisms, these commercial lamps are not really suitable for kids. Instead, the better lighting fixture is the glitter lamp, which is actually a cousin of the lava lamp. However, because these lamps can be very expensive, it would definitely be more cost-effective and fun if you can make these pretty lighting fixtures together with your children.

One good thing about making a lava lamp with your kid is that these lights are sure to capture their interest. These lamps became popular during the 60s and early 70s, long before they were even born. Even doing research on the Internet will not give them an idea on how the lamp actually works. The activity below is sure to get both your – and your kids’ – creative juices flowing.

How To Make Lava Lamps For Kids

There are a few things that you will need to make kids lava lamps, namely baby or vegetable oil, glitter, tiny beads of sequins, food coloring, and a clear glass jar.

Pour the baby or vegetable inside the jar until it is 1/3 full. Carefully sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of glitter, sequins or beads and stir so that these sparkles are distributed in the oil. Next, pour water into the jar, but make sure that you leave 1/2 inch of air space at the top. Add a drop or two of your preferred food coloring until you get the right shade. For a bubbly effect, you can add Alka Seltzer. Cover the jar tightly. Have your kid shake the jar to get the liquid and the glitters inside moving and let it stand on the table.

To create a genuine lava lamp effect, get an old table lamp and fashion a wire stand on top of the light bulb which will hold the jar. After kids have given the jar a good shaking, place it on the wire stand and switch on the light bulb. In the absence of an old table lamp, you can simply use a flashlight or floodlight and put the jar on top of it.

As a safety precaution, never use plastic bottles as the heat from your light source may cause the plastic to melt. Although you are using non-toxic materials, keep the glitters and beads away from smaller children to prevent dangerous choking accidents.

Create wonderful bonding moments with your family by learning how to make lava lamps for kids today!