How to Make Rock Candy with Kids

Rock candy takes a while to make, but it's a science lesson and candy rolled into one. What better way to teach your child about crystals than to have them create crystals of their own? Just take every precaution to ensure that no one gets hurt during preparation.

Things You'll Need

• 2 cups of sugar
• 4 cups of water
• Pot
• Wooden spoon
• Towel
• Clean container (glass is recommended)
• Wax paper
• Pencil
• String
• Clean washer

Instructions

1. Boil the water and dissolve the sugar in it. You will know the mixture is ready when it is clear and has returned to a rolling boil.

2. Carefully pour the solution you made into the jar. Wrap the jar with a towel and pour the solution slowly.

3. Prepare the string. First tie one end of the string to the pencil, then tie the other end to the washer, your weight. Dip the string into the solution for a few minutes. You want the string to be thoroughly saturated before you pull it back out and let it dry. Let the string dry for two to three days. Make sure that you keep the solution covered during the drying period.

4. Cover the top of your jar with wax paper.

5. Hang your now dry string back into the solution. Leave it there for a week to allow it to create your rock candy.

Tips & Warnings

• You can trade out your string for a wooden rod. Whichever material you choose, however, must be porous.

• Do not let the string touch the bottom of your jar. You give up surface area this way.

• Add Kool-Aid or some other drink mix. It will add both color and flavor to your candy. One package per cup of sugar is usually enough. This also allows you to mix flavors and colors. Add during the initial boiling period.

• As the adult in charge of this project, keep a close watch on the movements of your child. This is especially important around the hot stove and when pouring your just boiled liquid into its container.

• Rock candy, made with completely clean utensils, is perfectly safe. If you look at the finished product and it looks or smells questionable, however, throw it away. It is better to be safe than sorry when dealing with children.

References

• Exploratorium: Rock Candy Recipe