Ice Rescue Mission: Melting and Freezing Science Activity for Reception

Exploring ice is a magical way to introduce early chemistry and seasonal weather changes. In this highly engaging sensory activity, children must problem-solve to 'rescue' toys trapped in ice, observing firsthand how a solid melts into a liquid.

Step-by-Step Setup

1. Trap the Toys

The day before, place the toys in containers, cover with water, and freeze. Tip: Freeze in layers if you want the toys suspended in the middle, rather than floating to the top.

2. Introduce the Problem

Present the ice blocks in a large sensory tray. Tell the children: "Oh no, the animals are trapped in the winter ice! How does the ice feel?" Elicit words like 'cold', 'hard', 'solid', and 'freezing'.

3. Brainstorm Solutions

Ask the children how they might free the animals without breaking them. "What makes ice go away?" Guide the discussion towards heat and melting.

4. The Rescue Mission

Provide the pipettes and bowls of warm water. Show them how to squeeze warm water onto the ice. If using salt, sprinkle a little to show how it creates cracks. Let them work collaboratively to melt the ice.

5. Discuss the Change

As the ice turns to puddles, reinforce the scientific concept. "Where did the hard ice go? It melted into a liquid!" Connect this to winter snow melting when the sun comes out.

Classroom Adaptations

Large class?

Freeze one massive block in a mixing bowl and let the whole group work on it over the course of the morning.

Limited resources?

If you don't have pipettes, children can use teaspoons or small paintbrushes dipped in warm water.

Mixed ages?

Younger children love the sensory water play; older children can focus on the vocabulary of 'solid' and 'liquid'.

High ability?

Set up a race: does the ice melt faster in a sunny window or a dark cupboard? Have them observe and report back.