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Making a volcano is a fun science experiment your child can do right at home. They can build it, paint it, learn more about volcanoes and even make it erupt. It is educational, fun and messy.

What You’ll Need

* Cardboard
* Tub of Clay
* Paper Towel Roll
* Scissors
* Paint
* Baking Soda
* Vinegar

Directions

First, your child will need to build the volcano. They will need a good piece of cardboard, a tub of clay and a paper towel roll. Place their clay on the cardboard and have them mold it into a volcano shape leaving the center hollow. Cut the paper towel roll to the same length as your volcano. Place it in the hollowed center. Now let it dry.

Next, he or she will need to paint their volcano. Show them a picture of a real volcano and let them try to duplicate it. They can even paint lava flowing down the sides. If your child wants, they can paint the cardboard to look like grass and create a little village.

While the paint is drying, have an educational discussion about volcanoes. Tell them about some famous volcanoes, and eruptions such as Krakatoa. Go online with your child and check out some websites about volcanoes and discuss what your read.

Now, your child is ready to make their volcano erupt. They will need to sprinkle some baking soda into the center of the volcano. Then, have your child add some vinegar. This will cause a chemical reaction that will look like lava erupting from their volcano.

This project has many different educational activities all rolled into one. Your child will have fun modeling clay, painting and creating a chemical reaction. They will also learn lots of interesting things about volcanoes.