Tired of trying to convince your kids to wear sunscreen?
If you’ve used every trick in the book to get your kids to wear sunscreen, and it’s still a struggle, then I have the perfect experiment for you. Sunscreen painting is fun, easy, and teaches kids the importance of UV protection. This sunscreen experiment is sure to be a hit with your kids, even if you’re simply looking for a boredom busting activity to get through the long summer days.
You only need a few cheap supplies for this easy experiment. Chances are you already have sunscreen and black construction paper at home. So instead of talking until your blue in the face, show your kids how sunscreen works to protect their skin. They’ll have a blast and you’re bound to convince at least one of them that sunscreen is important.
Looking for more fun outdoor activities this summer? Check out this list of 15 Awesome Outdoor Activities For Kids!
What You Need!
- Sunscreen – Any lotion sunscreen will do. Aerosols may be difficult to paint with. You could also try stick sunscreen and your kids can use it to write on the paper.
- Black Construction Paper – I suggest using basic black construction paper for this easy activity. We experimented with both construction paper and black card stock. The card stock fades less in the sun and the final product wasn’t as impressive. Black construction paper fades quickly.
- Paintbrush – Get creative with your sunscreen paintings. Try using different size paintbrushes to create elaborate pictures.
The Science Behind This Experiment
So how does sunscreen really work? The ingredients in sunscreen either absorb or reflect the UV rays coming from the sun. So when you paint with sunscreen, you create a barrier on the paper. The sun’s rays cannot penetrate that barrier (at least for a few hours). The paper around the sunscreen is faded by the power of the sun, leaving your creative art project unfaded. How cool is that?
How To Paint With Sunscreen
This is the easiest science experiment to do at home. I love to incorporate STEM activities into our craft time. SHHH the kids don’t know it but they are actually learning even when we play!
Start by gathering your supplies. You need liquid sunscreen, black construction paper, and a paint brush. Tell your kids to head outside for a fun activity.
Next, let your kids’ creative juices flow. They can paint whatever they like using the sunscreen. Each sunscreen painting will be unique just like your kiddo.
When your paintings are complete, set them in the sun for 30 minutes to 1 hour. I put a little painters tape on the back of each painting so the wind didn’t blow it away. You can also add a couple of small rocks to each corner. *Fun Fact* The rocks will also prevent the paper from fading just like shade prevents your skin from burning.
Helpful Tips
- Make sure to use black construction paper. Card stock and normal printer paper will not fade as well as construction paper.
- Choose a nice, sunny day, the warmer the better. It was over 100°F when we did this STEM activity so our papers faded pretty quickly. Avoid placing your sunscreen art in shaded areas as it won’t fade properly.
- You may need to secure your paintings with tape or a heavy object to keep it from blowing away in the wind!
Your kids are going to love this fun science experiment using sunscreen and the power of the sun’s UV rays. This is the perfect activity to teach your little ones about the importance of sun protection. A cheap and easy outdoor summer craft that will keep your kids entertained while they learn!
