Color Mixing Science Experiment

Students are fascinated by colors. This color mixing science experiment is a great way to explore colors and how they interact with each other.

Pair this interactive center with other color sorting centers, and students will be sure to shine.

Sensory Table Color Mixing

A sensory table is a great setup as a color mixing station. The depth of the table allows for overflow and spillage without a lot of mess. To prepare the table, place three big containers of colored water (red, yellow, and blue) in the middle, with about a dozen empty clear cups around the outside. Provide large turkey basters in the tub for students to use when experimenting.

Initially, it is crucial to show the students how to use turkey basters. Squeeze and release the bulb to take water out of one container and squeeze it into another container. This is an excellent way to help students improve their hand strength and coordination as well! Students will love mixing the colors and seeing the results. Students often choose to stay at this center and continue exploring instead of moving along.

Keys to Success

• Place some type of plastic drop cloth under the sensory table!  A shower curtain or tablecloth work well.
• Provide a “dump” bucket where students can discard the colored water and start again with a clear cup.  
• If possible, allow students to take their socks off before experimenting at the color mixing table.  It can get a little wet on the floor and wet socks can be a sensory issue that is hard to remedy.

Ice Cube Tray Color Mixing

This experiment is the same idea as the sensory table, but on a smaller scale.

Cover a table with plastic and provide ice cube trays for each student. P ace bowls of colored water (red, yellow, and blue) and plastic droppers at each student’s place. Students practice using the small muscles in their hands to squeeze the dropper, mixing new colors into each ice cube tray compartment.

Other Ideas About Information About Color Mixing

• I Love Colors by Hans Wilhelm is a super cute book about a white dog who dips his body in different colored paints. Students can relate the dog’s experience to their own experience at the color mixing station.