The Colorful Cabbage Juice Science Experiment

As you know, I love at home science experiments. This acid-base science experiment using a cabbage juice indicator is fun, colorful and seems quite magical. It is perfect for older kids who want to learn about the scientific method and it is great for younger kids who are still simply exploring the wonders of science.

(Note: this post contains affiliate links. I received a review copy of the book.)

I actually did this cabbage juice science experiment with my son 7 years ago, (we called it “purple brew“) but when I saw it in Asia Citro’s new book, The Curious Kid’s Science Book: 100+ Creative Hands-On Activities for Ages 4-8 I decided to try it again, especially since my son didn’t remember the experiment and I knew he would get a lot more out of it now.

What you need:

Cabbage juice (make it yourself by boiling or blending cabbage and water)
Household powders and liquids like baking soda, cream of tartar, vinegar, etc. For older kids you can also try hydrogen peroxide, borax, etc.
Cups, bowls, spoons, etc.

Instructions:

Pour cabbage juice into different containers. Mix with chosen ingredients and watch what happens! Optional: record results.

What is happening:

Cabbage juice is a ph indicator that changes color according to the acidity of the substance added to it. The more acidic the substance, the pinker it gets. The less acidic, the closer to yellow the juice gets.

TIPS: Some ingredients will fizz. Let it happen, set it up somewhere where kids can experiment without worrying about mess. Just like with our simple preschool science lab, you should let the kids explore the scientific reactions however they want. Please supervise closely if using any harsh ingredients.

Need more motivation to try it? Watch the video and listen to my son’s reactions:

You may think you have enough science books on your shelf (and I certainly did) but I find Asia’s book more inspiring than most of them because it emphasizes further hands-on exploration of scientific principals instead of giving a set of instructions and leaving it at that. My favorite part are the quotes from kids about their findings! It’s also super gorgeous inside with colorful photos. (You may recall that Asia’s first book, 150+ Screen-Free Activities for Kids: The Very Best and Easiest Playtime Activities from FunAtHomeWithKids.com! inspired us to try slime for the very first time.)

Get the book!