Dissolving Peeps

Dissolving Peeps Preschool Science

Peeps are more than just a delicious treat. They are great for science experiments. Spring is the perfect time to grab two packs of these squishy chicks, one to enjoy and one for a fun experiment that preschoolers will love!

In this experiment, peeps are placed in various liquids to get them to dissolve. This experiment is great for introducing predictions, observations, and recording experiment results. This experiment is just one of the many ideas featured on our Easter Theme Planning Page!

Supplies:

• 12 Peeps: Place 2 Peeps in each cup
• 6 clear cups 
• Liquids: We used water, vinegar, dish soap, milk, soda, and pineapple juice. Fill each cup with about 1/4 liquid

Teacher tip: This is a great opportunity to include preschoolers in the planning process. Picking out the liquids for the experiment supports self-esteem and engagement in the activity. Providing a list of approved and on-hand liquids would be a great start.

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Let's Get Started

Begin by pouring 1/4 of each liquid into the six individual cups. You can either have these set up prior to beginning the experiment or include your preschoolers in this process for a great opportunity to practice pouring. Small pitchers or measuring cups work great for children to practice pouring.

Once the liquid is poured into the cups, you will place two peeps in each cup. We used different color flavors of peeps but feel free to use the same.

Teacher tip: Using different colored peeps helps preschoolers identify the different liquids, and it makes it a little easier for you to have conversations about what is going on. Once the peeps are soaking, take some time to make predictions. "What do you think will happen?" "Which peep will dissolve the fastest?" 

After making predictions observe the changes happening at agreed upon time intervals.

Teacher tip: Try leaving the peeps in the liquid for 24 hours to note the changes, when preschoolers check the next day they will be fascinated.

When checking on the peeps ask your preschoolers what they see happening to the Peeps. Is there one liquid that is dissolving the peeps faster than another? Are there changes happening to the liquids?

Consider recording the changes on a whiteboard or chart and write down observations from the preschoolers to review later.  Preschoolers could also journal what is happening with words or images. 

Teacher tip: Take pictures of the changes and close-ups of each Peep in the liquids. You can laminate the pictures, and turn into a book to keep in your classroom library. 

Dissolving Peeps is a fun and simple experiment that little learners will enjoy.  Be sure to take note of which liquid dissolved the Peeps the fastest.
If you enjoy Peeps don't forget to take a bite before the liquid experiment! 

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