You’ll need
- A bathtub
- A plug
- A floating toy, like a rubber ducky
What to do
- This is best done during regular bathtime. Keep your child in the bath as you take the plug out. Make sure the floating toy is in the bath.
- Let them explore the changes in how the water feels as they bring their hand closer to the drain. If your child is scared to stay in the bath, take them out and let them watch from outside the bath.
Questions to ask
Where does the water go?
What happens to toys like a rubber ducky as they approach the drain hole?
How long does it take for all the water to disappear? Have a countdown when you think there are 10 seconds left until all the water is gone.
What happens when you put the plug in the drain so that it only blocks half of the water going down?
What's happening
Your child will discover what happens to water as it escapes through a small hole. You and your child should be able to feel the water pressure changing as it approaches the drain.
You and your child can explore the concept that water goes down a pipe after the plug is pulled. They will also realise that water spirals down into the drain.
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