Camp Kids Make Elephant Tooth Paste

Students enrolled in Summer camp took learning science to a whole new level, by making elephant toothpaste. The experiment took place during a time allotted segment called teacher directed time.

“Teacher directed time is a time where students have the opportunity to choose between pre-planned activities including math and science, art and team building,” said Summer Camp Director Jen Barnard. “This part of our day is beneficial to our program because the campers are able to learn new, and expand upon prior, educational concepts and life lessons in a small group setting with their peers.’

During the elephant toothpaste experiment, kids learned about exothermic reactions and yeast as a catalyst. The project was part of “Walk on the Wild Side” Week at camp. 

Cindy Rupas was one of the teachers. She talked about the enthusiasm of the students.

“They (students) were like scientists waiting to see what would happen when yeast and water were poured over the peroxide ad dish soap,” Rupas said. “It was such gooey fun! When it started foaming up the kids just couldn’t wait to touch it and run their fingers through it.”

Each themed week in camp has projects lined up that were previously planned out by head teachers and Barnard.

Last week was “Creation Station” where kids will make homemade beads and pouches out of drink containers.

For more information on the Summer Camp Program at Saline Community Education, contact Jill Barnard at 734-944-8946.