Home Grown Crystals

What you need:

• black, dark blue, or dark purple construction paper
• small foil pie or brownie pan
• scissors
• epsom salt
• warm water
• a bright, sunny day
• magnifying glass or microscope (optional)

What to do:

1. Cut a piece of construction paper to fit at the bottom of your foil pan.
2. Dissolve one tablespoon of Epsom salts into 1/4 cup of warm water.
3. Pour the salt water into the pan lined with the paper.
4. Place the pan outside in a sunny spot.
5. Once all of the water has evaporated, you'll see small crystal growths on the paper!
6. If you happen to have a magnifying glass or microscope, observe the formations a bit closer. Crystal cool!

Learning benefits:

• reinforces science concepts