Skye loves experiments and science and I knew that she would love the National Geographic Glow-In-The-Dark Crystal Lab which is suitable for ages 8 years and over and is linked with STEM learning.
More about STEM…
Research has shown that STEM subjects help kids learn how to solve tough problems, gather and evaluate evidence, and make sense of information.
National Geographic are helping kids spark an interest in science with toys that engage young minds and foster a lifetime of discovery through fun and hands-on learning. In the 21st century the leading concept of education is STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. It is a cross-disciplinary approach to learning that entrepreneurs and educators believe is key to a healthy innovative economy.
Inside the box was;
Bag of Glow-In-The-Dark Crystal Growing Powder
Seed Rock
Magnifying Glass
Stir Stick
Display Stand
Information Guide
Genuine Fluorite specimen
After reading the safety information Skye was ready to get started. First we boiled the kettle; we could use filtered or distilled water. We chose distilled water as we had some already measured one cup (while still very hot) in our glass measuring beaker then poured it into the mixing bowl.
Skye quickly poured some of the crystal growing powder into the mixing bowl with the hot water and stirred it with the stir stick until the growing powder had disappeared; she then continued this process until no more of the powder dissolved.
She then poured the crystal growing solution into the growing chamber (our glass beaker) making sure we didn’t pour in any undissolved crystal powder. She waited about 20 minutes until the solution was cooled and then popped the seed rock into the solution, making sure it was in the centre of the beaker.
We had to leave the experiment in disturbed for 7-10 days but should have seen crystals forming within a day or 2. But as the snow had just hit and it was absolutely freezing we did have to wait a while longer than the 7-10 days to see anything significant.
Here are some photos of the crystals in their growing process.
Finally when I thought that there had been not much growth in the last few days of checking the crystals we decided it was time to take it out of the beaker.
This was a tough job as the whole bottom had crystallised. I used a butter knife to help the crystals out and here is our final result
And yes they do glow in the dark!
Skye really enjoyed this experiment although she was a bit sad that it took so long to grow them. We will try doing this again in the summer when the weather is warmer, we may get bigger crystals too.
It is priced at just £9.99 which is a fantastic price. I would definitely recommend it.
Disclaimer: We received this product in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are our own and not influenced in any way.
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