How to Make Super Bouncy Balls at Home

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a fantastic hands-on science experiment that turns everyday materials into high-energy fun. It’s easy, quick to prepare, and provides a great opportunity for kids to learn about chemical reactions while being creative. Plus, the final product is a toy they can actually play with!

ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup warm water

• 1 tablespoon borax powder

• ½ cup cornstarch

directions

1. In a bowl, mix the warm water and borax powder until the borax is completely dissolved.

2. In a separate bowl, add the cornstarch.

3. Slowly pour the borax solution into the cornstarch, stirring continuously.

4. Keep stirring until the mixture becomes thick and difficult to mix.

5. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls.

6. Let the balls dry for about 48 hours before using them for play.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 4-6 small bouncy balls, depending on the size you shape them. Preparation takes approximately 10-15 minutes, but drying time is around 48 hours.

Variations

• Add food coloring to the borax mixture for colorful bouncy balls.

• Use glitter or glow-in-the-dark powder for a sparkly or glowing effect.

• Try different shapes for a unique bounce.

storage/reheating

Store the bouncy balls in an airtight container to keep them from drying out too much. They do not require reheating. If they start to harden, a brief soak in warm water might help soften them slightly.

FAQs

How do super bouncy balls work?

They bounce due to the elasticity of the polymers formed during the chemical reaction between borax and cornstarch.

Can I use something other than borax?

Borax is essential for the chemical reaction, but slime activators can sometimes be a substitute, though results may vary.

Are these bouncy balls safe for kids?

Yes, but supervision is recommended as borax should not be ingested.

How long do these bouncy balls last?

They can last several weeks if stored properly in a dry, airtight container.

Can I play with them outside?

Yes, they are great for outdoor play but keep them away from water and dirt to maintain their bounce.

Why are my bouncy balls cracking?

They may be drying out. Try storing them in a slightly humid environment or using a sealed plastic bag.

Can I make larger bouncy balls?

Yes, but they may not bounce as well due to weight and density differences.

Is this a good project for a science fair?

Absolutely! It’s a great demonstration of polymer science and chemical reactions.

Do they bounce on all surfaces?

They bounce best on hard surfaces like tile or wood, less effectively on carpet.

What should I do if the mixture is too sticky?

Add more cornstarch a little at a time until the texture is more manageable.

Conclusion

Creating your own super bouncy balls is a rewarding and exciting activity that combines science with fun. It’s a perfect rainy-day project, science fair entry, or just a cool way to engage kids with hands-on learning. Give it a try and see how high your homemade bouncy balls can go!