How to Make Slime Stretchy

How to Make Slime Stretchy

Slime is one of those magical creations that can entertain kids for hours. One of the best things about slime is how stretchy and satisfying it can be—perfect for squishing, pulling, and even performing "slime tricks!" But sometimes, slime doesn’t stretch as much as we want it to. If your slime is too thick, too stiff, or just doesn’t stretch like you hoped, don’t worry. There are simple ways to fix it and make it perfectly stretchy. Here's how to make slime stretchier and improve its texture so it’s even more fun to play with!

Note: This blog post is intended for adults and is for informational purposes only. Any detail provided here is for the sole purpose of discussion and theory, and any attempt to make slime should be done in the presence of an experienced adult, or at Kids Science Labs

1. Add More Liquid to Your Slime

If your slime isn’t stretching well, it might be a bit too thick or too dry. Adding a little more liquid can help it become more pliable and stretchy.

• Add Water: A little water can go a long way in helping your slime stretch. Start by adding 1-2 teaspoons of water and knead it in until the slime feels smoother. Be careful not to add too much, as it can make your slime too runny.

• Add Lotion or Baby Oil: If you want your slime to feel extra soft and stretchy, try adding a small amount of hand lotion or baby oil. This will make your slime smoother and give it that satisfying stretchiness.

2. Use the Right Type of Glue

The type of glue you use plays a big role in how stretchy your slime will be. Some glues create a thicker, stiffer slime, while others produce a more pliable, stretchy slime.

• Use Clear Glue: Clear glue tends to create a more stretchy slime compared to white glue. If you’re looking for that super-stretchy, gooey texture, clear glue is the way to go.

• Use Elmer’s Glue-All: If you’re using white glue, Elmer’s Glue-All is a great option because it creates a stretchier, more flexible slime than other white glues.

3. Mix in Some Baking Soda

If you’ve already made your slime and it’s too stiff, baking soda can help! It’s a great way to soften the slime and make it stretchier without adding too much liquid.

• How to Use Baking Soda: Simply add about 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to your slime, then knead it in. This will help make the slime a little more flexible and stretchy.

4. Add More Safe SLIME Activator (Do not use homemade activators as they could have unsafe concentrations of key ingredients)

You can add a few drops of whichever slime activator that works you. Adding too much at the beginning can make your slime too firm, but you can slowly add more solution and knead until it becomes stretchier.

• Tip: Add small amounts of slime activator at a time to avoid making the slime too runny or sticky.

5. Knead, Knead, Knead!

One of the best ways to make slime stretchier is to knead it well. Kneading is essential to developing the right consistency. It helps all the ingredients come together and gives your slime that fun, smooth texture.

• Warm It Up: If your slime feels too stiff, try warming it up in your hands by kneading it for a few minutes. The heat from your hands can help soften it up and make it more stretchy.

• Take Your Time: Don’t rush the kneading process. The more you knead your slime, the better the texture will become.

6. Add a Little Bit of Cornstarch

If your slime is too sticky and you’re finding it difficult to stretch, cornstarch can be your best friend. It will help to thicken the slime a little while also keeping it stretchy. To engage kids best, we recommend having them place a popsicle stick and adding a little bit of corn starch at a time, until you get the right viscosity (thickness) and stretchy slime will result.

• How to Use Cornstarch: Simply sprinkle a little cornstarch into the slime and knead it in. It will help reduce stickiness and improve the stretch.

7. Experiment with the Right Amount of Borax (For Classic Slime)

If you have an adult nearby, ask your adult to use an organic safe borax to activate and make classic slime. The key to stretchiness is using the right ratio of H20 solution to glue. If your activator is too concentrated, it will make the slime stiff, while too little will prevent it from forming properly.

If you are looking for simple ways to make baking soda activator, here is a suggestion from Arm & Hammer: https://www.armandhammer.com/en/articles/kid-friendly-slime

8. Store Slime Properly

To keep your slime stretchy and fun to play with over time, store it in an airtight container when not in use. If it starts to lose its stretchiness after a few days, you can revive it by kneading in a little bit of water or lotion. Keeping your slime sealed also helps it stay fresh and prevents it from drying out.

With these simple tips, you can easily make your slime super stretchy and enjoyable for hours of fun. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, doing a DIY activity at home, or just indulging in some slime playtime, the stretchier, the better!

And if you want to skip the mess at home and let your kids create their perfect slime with expert guidance, check out Kids Science Labs in Chicago, Northbrook and Seattle. Our hands-on science activities (including stretchy slime!) offer the perfect experience for little scientists in our Chicago Summer Camps and Kids Birthday Party Venues in Chicago and Seattle!

Best STEM Programs for Kids in Seattle and Chicago

Best STEM Programs for Kids in Seattle and Chicago

STEM programs for kids are an incredible way to engage your child's curiosity, spark their creativity, and build critical skills for the future. Whether you're in Seattle or Chicago, there are amazing opportunities for kids to dive into the world of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. These programs offer hands-on learning experiences that not only make science fun but also teach problem-solving, teamwork, and perseverance.

In this blog post, we’ll explore why STEM programs for kids are so important, how they help build confidence, and why Kids Science Labs stands out as one of the best STEM programs for kids in both Seattle and Chicago!

Why is Hands-on Science Important for Five-Year-Olds?

At the early age of two, kids are naturally curious and love to explore the world around them. This is the perfect time to introduce hands-on science activities, which are proven to help young children develop essential cognitive and motor skills. The founders of Kids Science Labs learned that the available neuroplasticity in toddlers and PreK students was well suited for accelerated growth in creativity, innovation, and use of applied physics.

Here’s why hands-on science is particularly important for five-year-olds:

• Engages Their Curiosity: Five-year-olds are asking "why" and "how" all the time. Hands-on science allows them to answer those questions by exploring materials, conducting simple experiments, and making observations.

• Builds Fine Motor Skills: Activities like mixing, pouring, building, and assembling objects help children improve their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.

• Promotes Problem-Solving: Science activities encourage children to think critically and figure out how things work. They begin to make connections between actions and outcomes.

• Fosters Independence: As children conduct experiments or complete simple STEM challenges, they learn how to work independently and solve problems on their own.

Incorporating hands-on science into a five-year-old’s learning journey is not just fun—it’s the foundation for developing a lifelong love of learning and discovery!

How Do I Build Confidence with Kids Through Hands-on Science?

Confidence is a key factor in a child’s development, and hands-on science can be one of the best ways to help kids build it. Here's how:

• Successful Experimentation: When kids are given the opportunity to experiment and see results firsthand, whether it’s making slime or building a volcano, it boosts their confidence. Even if things don’t go perfectly, they learn that mistakes are part of the learning process.

• Encouragement and Support: Hands-on science allows children to explore at their own pace. They can try things, make adjustments, and celebrate their successes—big or small. When they see that they can make things work with their own efforts, their confidence grows.

• Teamwork: Many hands-on science activities are done in groups, which teaches children to work together, share ideas, and solve problems as a team. This not only helps kids feel more capable but also boosts their social confidence.

Incorporating science into play doesn’t just make kids smarter—it also helps them develop the confidence to face challenges and keep trying until they succeed.

How to Raise Confident Kids with STEM Programs for Kids

STEM programs for kids are an ideal way to raise confident, capable children. By focusing on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, these programs teach children valuable life skills that will serve them for years to come. Here’s how you can help raise a confident child with STEM programs:

1. Encourage Exploration: Give your child the space to ask questions and explore. Whether it’s a STEM kit, science experiment, or robot-building activity, encourage them to try new things, ask questions, and dive deeper into their interests.

2. Celebrate Problem-Solving: Confidence comes from understanding that problems can be solved. Whether it’s building a structure that doesn’t quite work or fixing a design that needs tweaking, a STEM program shows kids that persistence leads to success. Celebrate their problem-solving efforts to build resilience.

3. Promote Critical Thinking: STEM activities encourage kids to think critically about how things work, why they work, and how to improve them. Teaching your child to think through problems logically will build their confidence in handling challenges, both inside and outside the classroom.

4. Support Their Passion: If your child shows an interest in a particular STEM field—be it space, engineering, chemistry, or robotics—support and nurture that passion. You can help them feel more confident by providing opportunities to dive deeper into their interests.

By providing exposure to STEM programs for kids and supporting their curiosity, you’re laying the groundwork for your child to become a confident and capable individual.

Which STEM Programs Have the Best Science Camps?

When it comes to finding the best science camps for kids, it’s essential to look for programs that are hands-on, engaging, and intellectually stimulating. Here are a few STEM programs that offer top-notch science camps for kids:

1. Kids Science Labs – Offering a variety of STEM summer camps, birthday parties, and STEM programs for kids in both Seattle and Chicago, Kids Science Labs provides an incredible hands-on learning experience for kids ages 4-12. Camps focus on exciting activities like slime-making, creative design, engineering challenges, and more.

2. Pacific Science Center – In Seattle, the Pacific Science Center offers great science camps with interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and outdoor activities that engage kids in all things science-related.

3. Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) – MSI in Chicago offers a variety of STEM camps for kids that include hands-on activities, building projects, and access to amazing exhibits that spark curiosity in the realms of science and technology.

Each of these programs brings STEM learning to life with exciting, immersive experiences designed to ignite kids’ interest in science and inspire them to think creatively and critically.

Why is Kids Science Labs One of the Best STEM Programs for Kids?

Kids Science Labs stands out as one of the best STEM programs for kids for several reasons:

• Hands-on Learning: All of our programs focus on hands-on science, where kids get to engage directly with experiments, build models, and solve challenges.

• Experienced Instructors: Our experienced instructors guide children through each activity, ensuring they learn while having fun and making meaningful discoveries.

• Age-Appropriate Activities: Whether it's a slime party for younger kids or a hands-on science experience for upper elementary children, we tailor our activities to meet the developmental needs of kids at each age level.

• Innovative Curriculum: Our curriculum is designed to foster curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking, making every program at Kids Science Labs a unique and enriching experience.

With locations in Seattle and Chicago, Kids Science Labs has earned a reputation as one of the best STEM programs, offering summer camps, birthday parties, and year-round classes that inspire the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and thinkers.

Who Are the Founders of Kids Science Labs?

Kids Science Labs was founded by two dads, both engineers from Stanford University and University of Illinois, who met at the Chicago Booth School of Business. Shegan and Keith didn’t want to think of a brilliant idea, instead they wanted to solve a fundamental problem that mattered to the world. 15 years later, surrounded by a group of the most passionate educators and science enthusiasts who wanted to bring the joy of hands-on learning to children, Kids Science Labs and its award-winning STEM programs for Kids are still #1 form the Pacific Northwest to the Windy City.

The founders, Shegan Campbell and Keith Norsym, have deep backgrounds in education, science, and child development, which informs the program’s innovative approach to teaching STEM concepts.

In conclusion, STEM programs for kids are essential for fostering curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. Whether you're in Seattle or Chicago, there are incredible programs and camps available that can inspire your child to explore science and build confidence. Kids Science Labs offers one of the best STEM programs for kids, providing hands-on experiences that empower children to think, create, and solve problems. Ready to spark your child’s curiosity? Join us for an unforgettable adventure in science!

Slime Kit for Awesome Science Experience

Best Slime for Your Kids' Birthday Party

Slime is all the rage these days! Whether it’s a fun weekend activity, a creative school project, or the perfect addition to a birthday party, slime brings out the scientist and artist in every child. With its stretchy, gooey texture and endless variety of colors and types, it’s no wonder kids (and even adults) can’t get enough of it. If you're wondering which types of slime are best for kids and how to make slime fun, we’ve got the answers. From slime kits to DIY ideas, here's everything you need to know about the best slime for kids!

Slime Kit for Kid's Birthday Party

Looking to host a slime-themed birthday party? A slime kit from Kids Science Labs is the perfect solution for a hands-on, interactive experience that kids will love. These kits come with everything you need to make slime, from the basic ingredients to instructions and even extra add-ins like glitter, foam beads, or beads for texture.

Here are a few reasons why a slime kit is a fantastic idea for a kid’s birthday party:

• Interactive Fun: Kids can create their own slime at the party, making it an exciting and creative activity. This hands-on experience is not only fun but helps develop fine motor skills and a basic understanding of chemistry.

• Customizable: Whether your child loves glittery slime, sparkly slime, or glow-in-the-dark slime, a slime kit lets each child customize their creation to their liking.

• No Messy Cleanup: Many slime kits come with tools to help minimize mess, and some even include slime containers so kids can take their creations home as party favors.

• Themed Add-ins: Many kits come with special add-ins like colors, glitter, or even tiny charms to make the slime extra fun. It’s a great way to personalize the slime to fit the birthday party theme!

Slime kits are also a great way to keep kids entertained, especially during the party’s quieter moments when everyone needs a little break. They’re simple to use and guarantee a fun, interactive experience for everyone. You can learn more about buying slime kits for under $10 at Kids Science Labs below

How to Activate Polymer Slime with Kids using a Slime Kit

Polymer slime is one of the most popular types of slime, and for good reason—it’s stretchy, squishy, and super fun to play with! But how do you make sure the slime is activated properly? If you are looking for simple ways to activate your slime, many parents choose contact lens solution because it contains sodium tetraborate, but we advise for parents always to be present when using an activator.

Attending a party at Kids Science Labs or other slime making venues is one of the safest and easiest ways to allow your child to have fun with slime, without messiing up their clothes or worse, your house.

Pro Tip:

If your slime is too sticky, just add a little more activator. If it’s too stiff, add a drop or two of water to loosen it up.

Enjoy a Slime Experience at Kids Science Labs for an Unforgettable Kid's Birthday Party

If you're looking for a unique and hands-on birthday experience, a slime-making party at Kids Science Labs in Chicago or Northbrook is an absolute hit! At Kids Science Labs, children not only have fun creating slime but also get to learn about the science behind it. How cool is that?

What Makes a Slime Experience at Kids Science Labs Special?

• Hands-On Learning: Kids will discover the science behind slime as they mix different ingredients and experiment with textures. It's a fantastic way to integrate fun with learning!

• Safe and Supervised: Trained instructors guide kids through the process, ensuring that they have a blast without any messy cleanup for parents.

• Customization Galore: Kids get to personalize their slime with glitter, colors, beads, and other fun add-ins, making each creation unique.

• Take-Home Fun: Each child gets to take their slime home in a container, so the fun doesn’t end at the party!

A slime-making birthday party at Kids Science Labs is a perfect way to spark your child’s curiosity, creativity, and love for science. The kids not only leave with a slime masterpiece but also with new knowledge of the fascinating properties of polymers and how chemistry works in everyday life.

How to Make DIY Slime That Won't Stain Your Carpet

We all know how fun slime can be, but the mess it leaves behind can sometimes make parents cringe, especially if it's on the carpet. If you want to make slime at home but avoid the dreaded stain, follow these simple tips:

1. Use Clear Glue: Clear glue is less likely to stain than regular white glue. It’s easier to clean off carpets, furniture, and clothes. Plus, it makes the perfect base for colorful, glittery slime.

2. Make Slime on a Disposable Surface: Set up a slime station on a plastic tablecloth, tray, or large sheet of wax paper. This will catch any spills or drips, keeping your floors and furniture slime-free.

3. Mix Slime in a Bowl: When making slime, always use a bowl. This will contain any mess and make the mixing process cleaner.

4. Clean Up Quickly: If slime does spill, clean it up right away. Use a damp cloth or a paper towel to blot, not rub, the slime from the surface. For stubborn slime, a mixture of vinegar and water can help break it down.

5. Use Non-Toxic Ingredients: Stick to safe, non-toxic ingredients (like white glue, baking soda, and saline solution) to ensure that the slime is safe for kids and won’t cause any long-term damage if it does spill.

6. Store Slime Properly: After playing with slime, make sure it’s stored in an airtight container. This helps prevent it from drying out and becoming sticky, which could lead to more mess later on.

Whether you’re planning a slime-filled birthday bash or just want to make slime for fun at home, there’s no denying that it’s an activity your kids will love. With the right materials, a little know-how, and some simple precautions, slime can be a clean and exciting activity that sparks creativity and hands-on learning.

Looking for a unique slime experience? Head to Kids Science Labs for a fun-filled, educational birthday party that’s sure to be a hit with your little scientist!

How Much Does Summer Camp Cost

How Much Does Summer Camp Cost?

Summer camp is an exciting adventure for kids, offering a chance to learn new skills, make friends, and explore the world outside the classroom. But one of the first questions many families have when considering camp is: How much does summer camp cost? The cost of summer camp can vary widely based on several factors, and understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision. In this post, we’ll break down the elements that influence summer camp pricing and how to find a camp that fits both your family’s needs and budget.

Understanding Which Factors Influence the Cost of Chicago Summer Camp

The cost of summer camp in Chicago depends on a variety of factors. From the type of camp to the facilities and services offered, understanding what goes into the pricing can help you better assess what you're getting for your investment. Here are the key factors that can influence the cost:

1. Camp Type: Whether it's a traditional camp, a specialized STEM camp, or a sports-focused camp, different types of camps can have different pricing. Specialized camps, like those focused on science, robotics, or art, may be priced higher due to the expert instructors and specialized equipment required.

2. Staff-to-Child Ratio: Camps that offer more personalized attention with lower staff-to-child ratios often cost more. Smaller groups mean more individual guidance and supervision, which can be valuable, especially for younger children or those with specific needs.

3. Camp Activities and Facilities: Camps that offer a wide range of activities—such as arts and crafts, swimming, sports, field trips, and science experiments—tend to cost more because of the extra materials, space, and instructors needed. On the other hand, camps with fewer amenities or simpler activities may be more affordable.

4. Meals and Snacks: Some camps provide meals and snacks as part of the package, which can significantly increase the cost. However, if the camp offers snacks or lunches, it can add convenience and value for families.

How Location and Geography Impacts Price for Chicago Summer Camp

Location plays a big role in determining the cost of summer camp. In Chicago, camps in more central or trendy neighborhoods, like those near downtown or the lakefront, may come with a higher price tag due to higher real estate costs, transportation logistics, and proximity to popular attractions.

On the other hand, camps located in less urbanized areas, like those further from the city center or in the suburbs, may be more affordable because of lower operational costs. If you’re willing to drive a little farther, you might find a more budget-friendly option that offers similar quality and fun for your child.

Also, some camps may factor in travel or transportation costs if they are located outside of the city. Camps that offer transportation options, such as bus pick-up and drop-off services, can increase the overall cost of the camp.

Length of Camp: Overnight versus Day Camps

The length of the camp program also significantly impacts the price. Here’s how it breaks down:

• Day Camps: Day camps, where children attend during the day and return home in the evening, are generally more affordable. Prices usually range from $150 to $500 per week, depending on the camp’s activities and facilities. These camps typically provide snacks or lunch, but most parents will need to plan for transportation.

• Overnight Camps: Overnight camps tend to be more expensive, as they include lodging, meals, and more extensive supervision. Prices for overnight camps in Chicago can range from $500 to $1,500 per week or more, depending on the camp's offerings. They often include a wider variety of activities and immersive experiences, but parents should consider the additional costs, including transportation to and from the camp.

How To Tailor Camp Costs into Your Family Budget

Finding a summer camp that fits your family’s budget doesn’t have to be stressful! Here are a few tips to help you plan and stay within your budget:

1. Start Early: Many camps offer early bird pricing or discounts for families who register months in advance. Early registration can also give you more options and flexibility.

2. Research and Compare: Take the time to research different camps and compare prices. Look at what is included in the price and what you may need to pay for separately (like meals, transportation, or extra activities).

3. Look for Financial Aid or Scholarships: Many camps offer financial aid or scholarships, especially for families in need. It’s worth asking about these opportunities when you’re researching camps.

4. Consider Half-Day or Week-Long Camps: If your budget is tight, look for shorter camps that offer half-day sessions or week-long programs. These camps are often more affordable and still offer fun and valuable experiences.

5. Plan for Extra Costs: Be mindful of extra costs like camp merchandise, field trips, or special activities. Some camps may offer add-ons that can increase the overall price, so it’s important to know what’s included in the initial cost and what you might need to budget for separately.

Kids Science Labs' Value: Outstanding Teaching, Quality Hands-on Science Experiences, and Affordability

At Kids Science Labs, we believe that summer camp should be both fun and educational, and we’re proud to offer an affordable option for families in Chicago. Our camps are designed to provide quality, hands-on science experiences that help kids build critical thinking skills, boost creativity, and foster a love for learning.

We offer a wide range of themed camps focusing on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), including design thinking, kid chemistry, med school for kids, and applied physics that knocks kids socks off, literally. Our camps are taught by experienced educators who are passionate about inspiring kids to discover the world of science through hands-on science experiences. It’s real science led by real teachers.

At Kids Science Labs, we know that cost is an important factor for families, which is why we offer competitive pricing without sacrificing the quality of the experience. Our day camps are priced to be affordable, and we provide exceptional value by focusing on small group sizes, personalized attention, and a wide variety of enriching activities. Whether your child is a budding scientist or just curious about the world around them, they’ll leave Kids Science Labs with new skills, new friends, and a sense of accomplishment.