Oobleck

This strange and fascinating mixture behaves like both a liquid and a solid, making it a favorite science activity for kids and adults alike. Squeeze it and it feels firm, but let it rest and it flows like a liquid. Oobleck is inexpensive, easy to make, and perfect for sensory bins, STEM lessons, and rainy-day fun.

Contributor: Uncle Darin

Prep

5 min

Cook

0 min

Temp

No cooking required

Yield

4 servings

Ingredients

2 cups cornstarch
1 cup water
Food coloring, optional

Instructions

1
Add the cornstarch. Place the cornstarch in a large bowl.
2
Color the water. If using food coloring, stir a few drops into the water until evenly colored.
3
Mix the oobleck. Slowly pour the water into the cornstarch while stirring with a spoon or your hands.
4
Adjust the texture. Continue mixing until the oobleck forms. It should feel solid when squeezed but flow like a liquid when released. Add a little more cornstarch if it is too runny or a little more water if it is too stiff.
5
Clean up properly. When finished, discard leftover oobleck in the trash. Do not pour it down the sink, as it can clog drains.

Tips & Variations

Rainbow Oobleck – Divide the mixture into several bowls and color each one differently.
Toy Excavation – Hide plastic animals, dinosaurs, or small toys inside for a sensory treasure hunt.
Glitter Oobleck – Add a pinch of fine glitter for extra sparkle and fun.
Glow Oobleck – Replace some or all of the water with tonic water and shine a blacklight on it to create a glowing effect.
STEM Experiment – Tap, squeeze, and slowly pour the mixture while discussing how it behaves like both a solid and a liquid.

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