You will need: A flat surface such as a table, plastic containers, plastic cloth or oilcloth, funnel, jugs, pipette or tweezers (optional), spoons for measuring and stirring, water, food colouring, bicarbonate of soda, vinegar, labels and pen.
If you’re a fan of Harry Potter, or simply want to channel your inner mad scientist, why not set up your very own potions lab outside?
First, set up your work surface: an outdoor table covered in waterproof cloth works brilliantly. Next, you’ll need to find lots of different containers. As mad scientists tend to verge on the side of clumsy, it’s probably safest to choose plastic vessels. It’s also helpful to have a funnel, jugs and even the old pipette or tweezers on hand – after all, dragon’s blood and giant’s snot call for some very careful handling!
Food colouring mixed with water will give your creations an interesting look, and for added fizz try adding a spoonful or two of bicarbonate of soda before splashing in a little vinegar. Other possible ingredients include stardust (glitter), rainbow essence (old poster paint), powdered unicorn bones (flour), statue’s tears (rice) or monster slime (vegetable oil) – but always ask the grand high-keeper of the kitchen for permission first (AKA your mom or dad).
When you’ve made your potions, decant them into small containers and add a helpful label – e.g. ‘Shrinking Potion: not suitable for elves or goblins.’
Just remember – DO NOT DRINK THE POTIONS!! It won’t end well.
TIP: For added authenticity, try adding a white coat, safety glasses and evil laugh (MWA HA HA). That should unnerve a few people!
Source: 101 Things for Kids to do Outside by Dawn Isaac.