Kids will be amazed at this simple hand washing science demonstration that reminds them visually that using soap when washing hands literally makes “germs” scatter.
Yes, dish liquid is great for washing dishes, but there are so many other fun uses for soap. In the classroom I loved using this quick science activity to demonstrate the importance of using soap while washing hands.
With this simple science demonstration you can give kids a vivid visual that will help them remember to use soap each time they wash their hands {hopefully!}.
And bonus! They’re also learning a little about surface tension along the way. Science projects at home are always fun for kids!
Science Projects for Kids
Sometimes simple experiments make for the best experiments. And this easy experiment is not only a fun experiment but it’s one that involves the kids from start to finish, too.
We like to talk about all types of science topics in our home and try to follow those conversations up with a simple experiment or two if possible. This helps to make learning fun and also creates a great learning experience as well.
What we enjoyed about this pepper and soap experiment was that a quick experiment that could be done quickly in science class or shown as a cool exhibit in a science fair. For science learning, this hands-on activity really creates quite an impact.
It was an interesting experiment because it’s one that works well for all ages. This could be a great kids experiment for a preschool science lesson plan or a fun topic to tackle in science labs as well. Older kids will love learning about the experimentation process and playing “mad scientist” as well.
This is one of those amazing science experiments that are fun experiments and ideas for kids because they’ll want to do it over and over again.
Watch the Hand Washing Science Demonstration Video
You can watch the full science demonstration in this short video.
When we did this demonstration I started by gathering a bowl of water, black paper, and dish soap. Then I asked the girls to talk with me about what they know about soap and why we use it.
After our chat I told them we were going to learn about how soap makes germs scatter, and I asked them to sprinkle some pepper into our bowl. (Don’t add too much or the demonstration will not work as well.) They observed how the pepper floats on the surface of our water, and I told them that was like germs on the surface of our skin.
Then we covered one finger with dish soap. Our container was full so we just dipped a finger in, but you could also squirt the soap on the finger or dip a finger into a smaller container with soap poured in it.
Now for the big moment! And it’s a fast one, so make sure everyone is watching. Stick that finger into the water in the center of the bowl if possible. And POOF! Those “germs” scatter to the edge of the bowl. It’s quick, but powerful and kids remember that moment. Afterward we talked about how the “germs” are afraid of the soap and what we can learn from this demonstration.
This was always a powerful message that stuck with my kindergarteners when I was teaching in the classroom, and so far it’s had a lasting impression on my own girls as well.
The Science Behind this Hand Washing Demonstration Activity
A note about why this happens:
Inquisitive little scientists might want to know exactly why this happens since the pepper isn’t really “germs.” Basically the demonstration has more to do with the soap and water. The pepper just allows us to actually see what is happening. When soap is added to the water it lowers the surface tension of the water causing the water molecules on the surface to “scatter” or pull away from the point where you added the soap.
Make Germs Scatter Hand Washing Science Demonstration
Materials
- Small or Medium sized bowl (full of water)
- Ground Black Pepper
- Dish Soap (any brand)
Instructions
- Start by gathering your bowl of water, black pepper, and dish soap
- Sprinkle some pepper into your bowl. These are the "germs" on our skin.
- Cover one finger with dish soap.
- Stick the finger into the water, in the center of the bowl if possible.
- See the pepper "germs" scatter from the soap!
More Hand Washing Tips and Resources
Don’t forget a helpful hand washing song!
Help kids remember to wash long enough with a fun hand washing song for kids. Over on Fun-A-Day you can grab the free printable pictured below and see a collection of YouTube videos about hand washing to choose from.
Teach curious kids the history of hand washing!
Max Brooks shares the history of hand washing over on History.com. There’s even a free printable activity that includes another fun science experiment about germs.
Get help teaching 13 key classroom procedures
We know there are more routines to teach in the classroom than hand washing.
This 605 page classroom procedures bundle is full of step-by-step instructions for everyday routines children engage in at school, along with helpful tips and guidance to help you teach clear and detailed steps for 13 key classroom routines to your students.
As a bonus, we’ve added social distancing and online learning routines to accommodate today’s unprecedented learning environment.
Also available on Teachers Pay Teachers.
Brenda Conni
I Love it and will use it for the beginning of my virtual STEM classes. I have K-1st together, 2nd-3rd together. I will also usethe bread slices for grades 4th-5th together.
Thank you!
Shaunna
Yay! That’s so great to hear, Brenda! Good luck with your STEM classes!
Debi
Hi. This is one of my class’ favorite activities. I have been doing it for several years now and it never gets old. I have my kids put their finger in without soap first and the “germs” stay on. Then we use soap amd the “germs” wash off. If a child has sensory issues, they can use a Q-tip-it still works. Hope my suggestions help someone.
Shaunna
Thanks so much, Debi, for sharing your classroom experience with me! I am so glad that this activity is such a success with your students!
-Shaunna
Katie
Hi I want to do this activity with our social skills group that meets virtually, do I need permission to share this on our webpage or can I credit you on our webpage? Great idea, our learners are very visual and this will stay with them!
Shaunna Evans
Hi Katie! On your webpage you may share an image and link to this post so people can access the directions and information. Please do not copy and paste all of the content to your webpage. I hope your group enjoys the activity!
Salena Mullinax
Thank you such an interesting activity pertaining to the need for cleanliness.
Shaunna
You are welcome, Salena! Thanks for sharing your feedback with me.
Anne at Left Brain Craft Brain
Such a impactful, but still simple way to teach kids about germs. I’m definitely going to do this! Thanks for sharing at the Love to Learn Linky.
Shaunna Evans
Thank you, Anne!
Emily
Brilliant way to use Palmolive dish soap outside of the kitchen! And so timely as many children are heading back to school now. I think this would be a great experiment to do just before cold and flu season too. #client
Shaunna Evans
Oh, that’s a terrific suggestion, Emily. Thank you!
Clare
Wow – that is really cool, and a brilliant way to learn about germs.
Melanie Thomas
Great experiment. I showed your video to my 4 year old, we both learned something. Pinning to my Science board.
Angel Casale
Hi, Stopping by from Mom’s Library linky. This is such a great science experiment. My 4 year old just asked why he has to wash his hands before he eats and I tried explaining but this will actually show him. Pinned!
Shaunna Evans
What a great teachable moment, Angel!
Sheila @ BrainPowerBoy
Stopping by from Mom’s Library linky to say hi and let you know how much I like your post. We are going to give this a try today. Even though my son is older I think he will still enjoy it. Pinned.
Ann @ My Nearest and Dearest
Great idea! We’ve been talking about germs a lot lately. This is such a good way for kids to actually see what happens when they use soap. Will definitely give it a try. 🙂