
Solar System Sensory Bin with Bouncy Balls
Easy
What happens when you fill a tray with black beans and drop in colorful bouncy balls? You get a hands-on model of the solar system. The black beans stand in for the dark expanse of space. Each bouncy ball represents a different object. One is Earth. Another is the Moon. The biggest one is the Sun.
You add glow-in-the-dark stars to the bin. Then you explore the objects while learning which ball is Earth and which is the Sun. Turn off the lights at the end and watch the stars glow.
Hypothesis
The hypothesis is that a sensory bin with planets, stars, the moon and the Sun will help kids learn about the solar system in a fun way.
Method & Materials
Fill the container with black beans, place the planets, moon, Sun, and stars inside, and let the kids play and learn. At the end of the playtime, put the container in a dark room so the kids can see the stars glow in the dark.
You will need a container, black beans, bouncy balls representing the planets, a moon, the Sun, and glow-in-the-dark stars.
Kiwi Crate — hands-on STEAM project kits for ages 6–9, delivered monthly. (Affiliate link)
See what’s includedResults
By playing with the solar system sensory bin, kids can learn about the solar system while having fun. The glowing stars add a magical touch, and the large bouncy Sun ball is always a favorite. This is a great way to spark their curiosity about space!
Why do this project?
This science project is unique because it allows kids to physically play with the planets and experience their sizes and distances from each other. It's a great way to introduce them to the vastness of space in a fun and engaging way.
Also Consider
Add a space shuttle or astronaut figure to introduce space exploration. Use wild rice instead of black beans for a different texture and color.
Full project details
Additional information and source material for this project are available below.Related video
These videos explain the science behind this project and demonstrate key concepts used in the experiment.
These sensory bin ideas with a space theme use the same materials as ours and are perfect for developing hand dexterity and learning the alphabet. Also check out the moon crater project idea using flour and water!
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