Eruption Volcano Children’s Science Experiment

This volcano is a dream STEM resource because it connects play, science, and sensory exploration. 

How to Use the Volcano for Learning & Science

 Hands-On Chemistry

Use baking soda + vinegar (or citric acid + water + food colouring) to demonstrate acid–base reactions.

Kids see bubbling “lava” as carbon dioxide gas is released — a dramatic, visual way to introduce simple chemistry.

Teachable Moment: Explain how chemical reactions can create gases and change substances.

Earth Science & Geology

Connect eruptions to real volcanoes and Earth’s layers.

Compare shield volcanoes (gentle slopes, slow lava) vs. stratovolcanoes (steeper, explosive eruptions).

Add clay or sand around the volcano to model mountain shapes.

Teachable Moment: Talk about tectonic plates, magma, and how landscapes are formed.

STEM Experimentation

Encourage kids to test variables:

What happens if you use more/less baking soda?

Does warm water vs. cold water make a difference?

How does adding washing-up liquid change the eruption?

Teachable Moment: Introduce the scientific method — hypothesis, test, observe, conclude.

Sensory & Tuff Tray Play

Place the volcano in a tuff tray with sand, coloured rice, or pebbles to create a mini world.

Add toy dinosaurs, animals, or people for storytelling.

Teachable Moment: Combine sensory exploration with imaginative role play to reinforce science learning through play.

Maths Connections

Measure ingredients using spoons/cups to practice volume and quantity.

Record how long each eruption lasts.

Graph which “recipe” makes the biggest eruption.

Teachable Moment: Link STEM + numeracy in a fun, memorable way.

Literacy & Storytelling Links

Pair the experiment with books.

Let children write or draw their own “Volcano Report” about what they saw.

Teachable Moment: Reinforce observation and communication skills.

Cross-Curricular Play

Art: Create fiery lava with red/orange paint or tissue paper.

Geography: Locate famous volcanoes on a map (Vesuvius, Mount Fuji, etc.).

History: Learn about Pompeii and the impact of eruptions on people.

Size Approx.