Oobleck Goopy Goop

Oobleck: The Magical Goop That’s a Science Experiment & Sensory Play in One!

Have you read my post on Kinetic Sand? In that post, I promised to share all about Oobleck—another amazing sensory play activity that will have your kids giggling, experimenting, and getting delightfully messy. Well, here it is—get ready for some goopy fun!

What is Oobleck?

Oobleck (also known as Goopy Goop) is a fascinating non-Newtonian fluid, meaning it behaves like both a solid and a liquid depending on how much pressure you apply.

It gets its fun name from Dr. Seuss’s 1949 book Bartholomew and the Oobleck, where a sticky green goo rains down from the sky, causing chaos. Luckily, our version is way more fun and way less kingdom-wrecking!

Why is Oobleck So Amazing?

It is more than just a gooey good time—it’s a science experiment, sensory play, and creativity booster all in one!

• Science in Action – Teaches kids about suspensions and how pressure affects viscosity.
• Sensory Play – Encourages tactile exploration and strengthens fine motor skills.
• Easy & Affordable – Made with just two ingredients found in almost every kitchen.
• Completely Non-Toxic – Safe for little hands (but not for eating!).

How to Make Oobleck (Goopy Goop Recipe)

You only need a few simple ingredients:

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
• 1 cup water
• Food coloring or tempera paint (optional, but fun!)

Instructions:

1. Pour the cornstarch into a baking pan or container.
2. Slowly add water, stirring as you go.
3. Keep mixing until it forms a mixture that acts like a solid when pressed but flows like a liquid when relaxed.
4. Add food coloring (if using). Be warned—food coloring may stain hands and surfaces, so mix with care!

Oobleck Science: Why Does It Do That?!

Unlike a regular solution (where substances dissolve), it is a suspension—tiny starch particles are suspended in water. When you apply force (like squeezing), the particles push together, making it feel solid. When left alone, the particles spread apart, and it flows like a liquid.

It’s weird, wonderful, and totally mesmerizing!

⚠️ Important Cleanup Tip: NEVER pour Oobleck down the drain! It can clog pipes when it settles. Instead, toss it in the trash.

Fun & Creative Ways to Play with Goopy Goop

Once you’ve made your Oobleck, here are some exciting ways to explore:

• Squeeze it in your hands and watch it turn from a solid to a liquid.
• Try rolling it into a ball—it stays solid until you stop moving it!
• Slap the surface! The force will make it act like a solid and not splash.
• Drive toy cars through it—watch the tracks disappear.
• Pour it through a strainer and see how it flows.
• Make it bubble! Add dish soap for a foamy experience.

Want to Take Things to the Next Level?

• Walk on It! If you have a lot of cornstarch and a small pool or tub, you can actually run across it without sinking (just don’t stop!).
• Freeze it! What happens when Oobleck gets really cold?
• Make it dance! Place some on a speaker covered with plastic and play some music. Watch it come to life!
• Paint with it! Try Oobleck sidewalk art—messy but awesome.

How to Store Oobleck

It can be saved for up to two months in a sealed container in the fridge. When you’re ready to play again, just stir and add a little water if needed.

🌟 Have you tried making Oobleck? What’s your favorite way to play with it? Let me know in the comments! 🌟