Lava Lamp Activity - STEAM Lesson

STEAM activities use hands-on learning—like building, experimenting, and exploring—to boost critical thinking and creativity. For children and siblings facing pediatric cancer, these activities are more than just schoolwork; they bring back a feeling of normalcy, success, and confidence during a difficult time.

STEAM education helps kids learn vital skills, connect with others, and have fun! These at-home STEAM activities let children and siblings facing pediatric cancer explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math in a fun, comfortable setting.

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Age Group Best Served: 1st -5th grade

Take Away Artifact: Yes

Approximate time: 15 minutes

Divisions Covered: OT, Family Programs

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Materials:

• Mason jars or empty water bottles
• Vegetable Oil
• Food Coloring
• Fizzy Tablet

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Skills Required for Completion of Task:

Motor skills

• Bilateral upper extremity coordination
• Ability to manipulate small objects
• Hand-eye coordination
• Ability to grip objects
• Ability to stabilize objects/task

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Process/Cognitive skills

• Ability to attend to task for greater than 5 minutes
• Follow multi-step directions
• Ability to sequence steps
• Ability to organize or keep materials organized for task
• Ability to adjust to different workspace requirements

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Social skills

• Ability to communicate and share equipment with peers/staff appropriately
• Ability to express emotions through art
• Participate in a therapeutic, stress-relieving activity

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K-8 Standards:

3.PS1: Matter and Its Interactions 1) Describe the properties of solids, liquids, and gases and identify that matter is made up of particles too small to be seen.

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This activity would be appropriate completed by the following disciplines:

Occupational Therapy, Family Services

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Expenses:

• $5.00 for a pack of Alka Seltzer tablets
• $4.00 for a pack of assorted food coloring bottles
• $3.00 for a bottle of vegetable oil
• $4.00 for a pack of water bottles

Instructions:

1. Give each an empty water bottle or mason jar and fill it ¾ way with water
2. Add 4 tablespoons of vegetable oil to the water bottle
3. Add 2 teaspoons of food coloring of choice to the water bottle
4. Add one fizzy tablet (Alka-Seltzer) to the water bottle.
5. Screw on the lid of the water bottle, ensuring that it is on tight. You can then shake the water bottle, and the activity is complete.

(Note: can use this activity as a science lesson in density of liquids)

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Precaution: If mason jars are used, they should be used with caution as glass may break easily

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The Austin Hatcher Foundation is a nationally recognized leader in psycho-oncology care, providing innovative, evidence-based services for families facing pediatric cancer. Through a holistic approach, the Foundation supports the emotional, mental, and social well-being of children, siblings, and parents—ensuring families have the resources to heal and thrive during and after treatment. 

Through programs like STEAM Club and at-home resources like these, we encourage creativity, build confidence, and strengthen connections through hands-on learning. To learn more about our programs or to request comprehensive support, visit https://www.hatcherfoundation.org/resources/request-an-appointment