Creating bath jelly with kids is a fun way to combine playtime with a bit of science. Bath jellies are squishy, colorful, and make bath time a sensory delight. This DIY project is simple and safe, allowing children to explore textures and scent.
Use this bath jelly in your bath or give it as a gift. Jiggly fun for kids.
What You Will Need:
- 1 envelope Unflavored Gelatin (Knox unflavored gelatin works well)
- 1/2 cup Bubble Bath or your favorite liquid soap
- Food Coloring (optional)
- 1/2 cup Water
- Measuring Cup
- Saucepan
- Jar with Lid
- Small Trinkets (we like to use a Mini Rubber Duck)
What You Do:
- Heat water until it boils, then remove water from heat.
- Dissolve the gelatin in the boiling water.
- When gelatin is completely dissolved, slowly add bubble bath or soap and a few drops of food coloring (if desired). Do not beat the mixture as it will become foamy. Stir gently to blend.
- Pour the mixture into a jar with a lid.
- Drop in a small toy or other trinket.
- Place the jar in the refrigerator to set (and store in refrigerator until ready to use).
- Once Bath Jelly has set, place a small amount of jelly under the tap water for a bubble bath, or use it as a shower gel. What fun!
The Science:
Gelatin is a protein derived from collagen and is what gives bath jellies their unique texture. When dissolved in hot water, the gelatin molecules disperse and form a network that traps water as it cools, creating a gel.
The addition of liquid soap allows the bath jellies to foam and clean like regular soap. The soap molecules are dispersed within the gelatin network, which helps the jelly to lather up when used in water.
Kids love bath jelly! Scooping it, painting the tub with it, painting their bodies, or even using on a washcloth is such fun.
