Static Electricity

We did this experiment when we were working on the letter E.
Of course we are trying to explain these concepts to preschoolers and they can only grasp so much.  It's always fun to see science at work though!

Materials:

• balloon
• empty soda can
• hair

First we introduced the materials to The Dragons.  We had some time to discover and talk about what the materials are and what they are used for.  How they are different. 

Next we asked: "Do you think we can move this can without touching it?"

The Dragons took turns trying to move the can by waving their hands over the can.  Of course there was no movement.


You can move the can without touching it!  But you need Static Electricity! 
We rubbed the balloon on the heads of The Dragons to give it a 'charge'.

There were lots of laughs when the hair followed the balloon

Then Jerry demonstrated/explained how the balloon would draw the can to it because of the charge. 

After a few times of the can moving The Dragons were soon bored.  So we showed them that the balloon could stick to their clothes or to the walls.  

This kept them entertained for some time and of course kept them laughing. 

Proof science is fun!