Crystal growing projects make for super fun and educational STEM activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. These science experiments allow children to experience the magic of chemistry and crystal formation first-hand.
In this beginner’s guide, we will explore everything you need to know about crystal growing projects for kids. You’ll learn the science behind crystal formation, different types of crystal growing kits and activities, safety tips, and how crystal experiments tie into STEM education. Let’s grow some crystals!
What Are Crystal Growing Projects for Kids?
- Crystal growing projects involve growing crystals from a solution.
- They allow kids to observe the process of crystal formation and structure.
- Crystal growing teaches chemistry concepts like solubility and molecular bonding.
- These projects apply principles of STEM – science, technology, engineering, and math.
- Crystal growing kits and activities make excellent educational science toys.
In crystal growing projects, kids dissolve a crystalline compound like alum powder or borax in water to create a super saturated solution. As the solution cools and evaporates, it becomes supersaturated, causing the dissolved particles to come out of the solution and bind together in an orderly, crystalline structure.
This allows children to observe first-hand how crystals form over time. They can watch the crystals grow bigger each day and examine their shape and structure.
The Science Behind Crystal Formation
Understanding how crystals form helps explain the crystal growing process. Here’s an overview of the chemistry behind crystal growth:
How Crystals Form
- Crystals form when particles in a solution bind together in an organized way as the solution cools and evaporates.
- Particles arrange themselves in a natural, repeating 3D pattern that continues as the crystal grows.
- This orderly arrangement is based on the natural molecular structure of the substance.
- Crystals form different geometric shapes based on the natural crystalline structure of their molecules.
Factors Affecting Crystal Growth
There are a few key factors that affect crystal growing results:
- Saturation level – A supersaturated solution allows for maximal crystal growth.
- Temperature – Warmer temperatures keep more particles dissolved resulting in slower crystal growth. Cooler temps cause faster crystallization.
- Evaporation – As the solvent evaporates, particles come out of the solution faster to form crystals.
- Disturbances – Agitation can disrupt the organized crystalline structure and inhibit crystal formation. An undisturbed solution allows for ideal crystal growth.
Now that we understand the basic chemistry behind crystal formation, let’s look at some different types of crystal growing projects!
Crystal Growing Kits for Kids
Crystal growing kits provide an easy way for kids to grow their own crystals with minimal setup. Here are some popular options:
Crystal Growing Lab Kits
Crystal lab kits come with all the materials and instructions kids need to grow multiple crystal specimens. This provides opportunities to grow different crystal shapes and colors for comparison. Popular compounds used are borax, potassium alum, and sodium acetate.
Pros
- All materials included
- Grow multiple crystal types
- Full-color instructions
Cons
- More expensive
- Can take 1-2 weeks to grow crystals
Cost
$25-$60
Popular kits: Creativity for Kids Grow ‘N Glow Terrarium, GeoCentral Geode Lab Kit
Specific Compound Kits
These kits focus on growing one type of crystal structure really well. Common compounds include borax, table salt, and Epsom salt.
Pros
- Grow large, high quality crystals
- Lower cost options
Cons
- Limited to one crystal type
Cost
$10-$30
Popular kits: 4M Borax Crystal Growing Kit, Creativity for Kids Crystal Climbing
Grow Your Own Crystal Kits
These kits offer reusable crystal growing chambers that allow for multiple growth cycles. Just add your own chosen compound.
Pros
- Reusable
- Grow multiple crystal types
Cons
- Need to purchase compounds separately
- Can be messy
Cost
$15-$25
Popular kits: Toysmith Crystal Growing Experimental Kit, Faber-Castell Crystal Growing Kit
6 DIY Crystal Growing Activities
Part of the fun of crystal growing is designing your own experiments! Here are 6 kid-friendly DIY crystal growing activities:
1. Borax Crystals
Borax powder (sodium tetraborate) dissolved in hot water and allowed to slowly evaporate makes gorgeous crystallized structures.
Add food coloring for tinted crystals!
Materials:
- Borax powder
- Hot water
- Glass jar
- Pencil or craft stick
- Yarn, pipe cleaner, or craft sticks for seed crystals
- Food coloring (optional)
Directions:
- Boil water and stir in borax powder until saturated (no more will dissolve)
- Allow to cool slightly and add food coloring if desired
- Pour into a glass jar
- Tie yarn or pipe cleaner to a pencil and place it vertically in the solution to grow crystals on
- Place jar in a warm spot and allow to evaporate slowly over 7-10 days
- Watch crystals form and grow on the yarn or pipe cleaner!
2. Epsom Salt Crystals
Similar to borax, Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) makes beautiful crystallized structures. Its unique chemical makeup causes the crystals to form intricate geometric shapes and patterns.
Materials:
- Epsom salt
- Hot water
- Glass jar
- Mixing utensil
- Non-metallic object for seed crystal (popsicle stick, plastic fork, etc.)
Directions:
- Add 1-2 cups Epsom salt to 1 cup boiling water and stir until no more dissolves
- Pour the solution into a glass jar
- Allow to cool slightly before placing object in solution for seed crystal
- Place jar in a warm spot and allow to evaporate
- Examine crystals after 5-7 days
3. Alum Crystals
Alum powder forms colorful, intricate crystals as it crystallizes out of a super saturated solution. It’s perfect for growing directly onto objects to create crystal-covered keepsakes.
Materials:
- Alum powder
- Glass jar
- Water
- Craft object for crystallization (pinecone, shell, etc.)
- Food coloring (optional)
Directions:
- Boil water and stir in lots of alum powder until saturated
- Allow to cool before adding food coloring if desired
- Place craft object in a jar and pour in the solution until the object is covered
- Allow the jar to sit undisturbed as crystals slowly form on the object over 5-7 days.
4. Sugar Crystals
Table sugar and water create large crystals perfect for observing shapes and structure. Adding food coloring or throwing in a few cranberries makes it even more interesting!
Materials:
- Granulated sugar
- Water
- Glass jar
- Yarn, popsicle stick, or plastic straw
- Food coloring (optional)
- Cranberries (optional)
Directions:
- Heat 1 cup water until almost boiling
- Stir in sugar until no more dissolves
- Add food coloring if desired
- Allow to cool before pouring into jar
- Place yarn or other object in solution to grow crystals on
- Drop in a few cranberries if desired
- Allow to sit undisturbed for 7-10 days as crystals grow
5. Salt Crystals
The same technique using table salt creates cool cubic-shaped crystals. Adding food coloring introduces more science concepts.
Materials:
- Table salt
- Water
- Glass jar
- Food coloring
Directions
- Heat 1 cup water just to boiling
- Stir in lots of table salt until saturated
- Allow to cool before adding several drops of food coloring
- Pour into a glass jar
- Place a toothpick or small object in the solution for seed crystal
- Allow to evaporate undisturbed for 5-7 days.
6. Frozen Crystal Ornaments
Creating colorful crystal ornaments is a perfect winter science activity. Use everyday materials and watch crystals form before your eyes!
Materials:
- Borax or Epsom Salt
- Boiling water
- Glass ornaments or jars
- Food coloring
- Glycerin (optional, helps prevent cracking)
Directions:
- Make super saturated solution by dissolving borax/Epsom salt in boiling water
- Add glycerin if using to prevent cracking
- Divide solution evenly among containers
- Add 2-3 drops food coloring to each
- Insert ornament hook or cap lids
- Allow to cool completely before moving to the freezer
- Freeze overnight allowing crystals to form
- Thaw slightly before removing ornaments from containers
- Apply hook and ribbon to hang!
Now that we’ve covered some crystal growing options, let’s go over some key safety precautions.
Crystal Growing Safety Tips for Kids
While crystal growing introduces children to science concepts, it does involve the use of chemicals that require safety measures. Here are some key precautions:
1. Supervise Children
Crystal experiments with hot water and chemicals require adult supervision. Explain the safety rules.
2. Use Child-Safe Chemicals
Common chemicals like borax, table salt, and alum are non-toxic when used properly. Avoid copper sulfate, potassium permanganate (can stain skin), and lead-based chemicals.
3. Wear Goggles and Gloves
Use protective eyewear during crystallization setup as hot water is involved. Have kids wear gloves when handling chemicals.
4. Use Proper Ventilation
Cover and ventilate crystal growing containers to allow airflow. Crystallization should occur slowly through evaporation.
5. Limit Contact with Chemicals
Avoid touching chemicals with bare hands. Use tools for handling. Wash immediately after if skin contact occurs.
6. Clean and Dispose Properly
Wash all tools thoroughly after use. Pour the extra solution down the drain diluted with water. Rinse containers before disposing.
Following basic precautions allows kids to explore crystal growing excitement safely!
The Educational Benefits of Crystal Experiments
Beyond the “wow” factor of growing colorful crystals, crystal growing projects provide many educational benefits for children.
Develop Scientific Knowledge
Crystal experiments allow kids to see chemistry concepts in action:
- Saturation – Adding more solute until no more dissolves
- Crystallization – Particles coming together in organized structures
- Precipitation – Solute coming out of solution
- Symmetry – Repeating geometric patterns
- Molecular bonding – Attractive forces between molecules
Enhance Critical Thinking Skills
Crystal growing encourages critical thinking as children:
- Analyze results – Compare crystal size, shape, color etc.
- Problem solve – Troubleshoot why crystals may not be forming
- Draw conclusions – Determine which factors influence crystal growth
Spark Creativity
Kids can express creativity through:
- Designing experiments- Test how different variables affect results
- Decorating crystals – Use dyed solutions, add objects, and incorporate into art
In addition to chemistry knowledge, crystal growing allows kids to develop science process skills like observation, experimentation, and analytical thinking.
Crystal Science Ties into STEM Education
Crystal experiments are naturally interdisciplinary, tying into key concepts in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Science
- Chemistry – Solutions, solubility, saturation, crystallization, precipitation
- Physics – Molecular structure and bonding, principle of supersaturation
- Geology – Formation of natural crystals and gemstones
Technology
- Following procedural instructions to operate kits
- Documentation through photography and notes
Engineering
- Designing experimental crystal growing procedures
- Utilizing tools and materials to grow crystals
Math
- Measuring ingredients and water
- Graphing crystal size over time
- Examining symmetry and geometry of crystal shapes
Crystal growing allows for integrated STEM learning through hands-on experimentation.
Tailoring Crystal Activities for Different Age Groups
Crystal growing projects can be scaled to various age levels:
Preschool
- Simple solutions like table salt or sugar
- Focus on crystal observation
- Glitter or toys in solution add fun
- Adult assistance is required for safety
Photo by RF._.studio from Pexels
Elementary School
- Progress to borax and alum crystals
- Introduce chemistry concepts
- Add measurement and data collection
- Adult supervision still needed
Middle School
- Test more variables
- Calculate saturation ratios
- Learn advanced concepts like ionic bonding
- Practice documenting experiments
High School
- Design own crystal growing experiments
- Grow mono-crystalline structures
- Utilize microscopic photography
- Study crystallography and mineralogy
There are crystal growing activities perfect for all age levels! The key is adjusting the experiment’s complexity and scientific concepts covered.
Fun Crystal Growing Ideas for Different Occasions
Crystal experiments make memorable activities for various occasions:
Holiday Science
Grow borax snowflakes and frozen ornaments for Christmas. Whip up ‘crystal cauldrons’ colored with Halloween hues.
Birthday Parties
Set up crystal growing stations for kids to start their own specimens to take home. Give crystal growing kits as favors.
Science Fairs
Show off gorgeous crystals grown and let kids explain the chemical processes involved.
No matter the occasion, crystal growing never fails to fascinate. The kids get to keep their creations as souvenirs!
Crystals Can Inspire Interest in STEM Careers
Introducing children to crystal chemistry can spark lifelong interests. Crystallization principles apply to many scientific fields.
Chemistry
Researching crystal growth has applications in pharmaceuticals, electronics, and materials development. Kids may pursue careers as lab chemists, researchers, and chemical engineers.
Geology
Crystals form naturally as mineral deposits and gemstones. Crystal experiments can inspire geologists, gemologists, and miners.
Physics
Examining molecular bonding and crystalline structures provides foundations for nuclear physicists, nanotechnologists, and quantum computing engineers.
Architecture
Observing geometric shapes and patterns supports interests in fields like architecture and nanotechnology.
Starting crystal growers early encourages future innovators and problem solvers!
Key Takeaways from Our Crystal Growing Guide
- Crystal growing allows kids to witness the science of crystallization firsthand.
- With proper safety precautions, household chemicals like borax and Epsom salt can be used to grow gorgeous, colorful crystals.
- Crystal experiments teach core scientific principles and tie into STEM subjects.
- Tailor crystal activities by age to make them educational yet fun.
- Crystallization projects provide memorable science experiences for holidays, parties, and gift-giving.
Grow On Your Crystal Knowledge!
Hopefully, this beginner’s guide provided a helpful introduction to crystal growing projects for kids of all ages. As you explore the magical world of crystallization further, be sure to document your crystal creations and discoveries!
For more crystal growing ideas and inspiration, check out these resources:
10 Awesome Crystal Growing Projects for Kids from Pre-K Pages
The Ultimate Guide to Crystal Experiments from The Best Ideas for Kids
Crystallization Education YouTube Channel
Now go on – grow, explore, learn! May your crystals continue indefinitely.
Frequently Asked Questions about Crystal Growing Projects for Kids
What are the best crystal growing kits for young kids?
For younger kids, look for kits that focus on growing just 1-2 types of crystals, like borax or Epsom salt. Creativity for Kids and 4M make great crystal kits for ages 3-6. Supervise closely and explain all safety precautions.
What household materials make good DIY crystal growing projects?
Borax, Epsom salt, table salt, and sugar all crystalize easily from supersaturated solutions. Provide jars, hot water, food coloring, and decor items like pinecones or shells to grow crystals on. Kitchen chemicals allow for very budget-friendly experiments.
How can I incorporate STEM learning into crystal growing?
Have kids log measurements and observations in a science journal. Calculate saturation ratios and graph crystal growth over time. Examine crystalline structures and classify shapes by sides and angles. Use microscopes to photograph crystals. The intersections with science, math, and engineering concepts are endless!
What crystals are best for science fair projects?
Showstopper science fair crystals include large borax crystals tinted with food color, intricately shaped alum crystals covering objects, and colorful Epsom salt crystals with their geometric forms. Pick crystals that form quickly within 1-2 weeks for best results.
Is it safe for kids to handle the chemicals used in crystal growing?
Use child-safe chemicals like borax, table salt, or alum and supervise closely. Review safety tips like wearing goggles and gloves and washing hands after use. Only make saturated solutions with hot water under adult supervision. Proper precautions allow kids to use chemicals safely.
What crystals can we grow that are found in nature as minerals or gemstones?
Some crystals that can be grown at home include table salt (halite mineral), borax (kernite), Epsom salt (heptahydrate), and baking soda (nahcolite). While different than the pure minerals, growing these familiar crystals introduces natural crystalline structures.