The Idea

Free play with different measuring equipment to learn (1) how liquid measurements are related to each other and (2) the technical parts of accurate measuring.  One child of mine is very much into precision.  He had a grand time figuring out that 5 mL=1 tsp, 3 tsp=1 Tbsp, 1 Tbsp=15 mL, etc.

We also threw in the Floating Paper Clip Experiment for fun.

The Execution

Supplies:

• measuring spoons
• small measuring cups (from liquid medicines)
• large measuring cups
• water
• food coloring
• thick towel on the table
• optional (if you have it):  chemistry glassware

Add food coloring to the water to make it easier to see.  Mix, measure and pour.  Add more water to the colored solution when too much gets spilled.  We spent about 2% of the time actively discussing measuring points, and 98% of the time gleefully pouring and spilling.

The Extension

To continue exploration, mix several solutions with different colors and allow color mixing.