Rainbow Color Wheel Skittles Experiment for Kids
Looking for easy science experiments for kids that are both colorful and fun? This rainbow Skittles experiment is a sweet way to explore color mixing, patterns, and a little science magic, all in one simple activity.
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The rainbow Skittles experiment is one of the easiest science activities to set up, but it delivers big visual impact that kids love. With just a few ingredients you already have at home, your child can watch vibrant colors spread across a plate like magic. This hands-on activity is perfect for introducing basic scientific concepts like dissolving, diffusion, and color theory. If you’re searching for easy science experiments for kids that double as a fun rainy day project or quick kitchen table learning, this one is a guaranteed win.
Be sure to also see our Fun Fireworks Skittle Experiment for Kids and get the Free Printable Science Experiment Worksheet (Scientific Method).
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đź“ŚWhat You’ll Need
- Original SkittlesÂ
- Wild Berry Skittles (for the blue)
- A large white plate
- A small cup of warm water
🧪 The Science Behind the Skittles Color Wheel
Skittles are coated in colored sugar that dissolves quickly when it comes in contact with warm water. As the water breaks down the sugary shell, the food coloring begins to spread out from each candy. Because the water is poured gently and the candies are evenly spaced, the colors move toward the center without immediately mixing. This creates those beautiful streaks and swirls you see!
This experiment is also a great way to explore color theory. By placing the candies in the order of the color wheel, kids can actually see how primary colors (red, yellow, blue) can sit next to secondary colors (orange, green, purple)—and begin to understand how they relate. It’s a colorful blend of science and art that’s just as magical to watch as it is educational!
✨How to Experiment with Rainbow Skittles
Sort the Skittles by color: Separate your Skittles into six piles: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. (Note: Regular Skittles don’t have blue. For the full color wheel, you will need Wild Berry as well.)
Arrange the Skittles into six radiating lines: Place the Skittles in lines pointing out from the center of the plate like spokes on a wheel.
Use this color order to match the traditional color wheel: Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple (Place secondary colors between their two primary color “parents.”)
Discuss the different colors: Encourage kids to point to each color on the wheel as you name it, helping them practice and reinforce color recognition skills.
Get ready for the magic: Slowly pour warm water onto the plate just until it is about halfway up the Skittles. Be careful not to pour too much.
Watch the colors spread: As the water dissolves the candy coating, you’ll see the colors radiate outward, creating a vibrant, swirling color wheel.
Talk about colors: While you wait and watch, use the time to talk with your child about how secondary colors are made by mixing primary ones. This is a great hands-on way to reinforce color theory basics.
đź’ˇHelpful Tips
- Use a white plate for the most vibrant results—dark or patterned plates can make the colors harder to see.
- Keep the plate still during the experiment so the colors don’t mix too soon.
- Try different patterns! Circles, stripes, or color blocks can create different visual effects and keep things interesting.
And there you have it—science, color, and a little candy magic all in one sweet experiment! Whether you’re a parent looking for a rainy day activity or a teacher adding some fun to your lesson plan, this Skittles color wheel is a hit with kids and grown-ups.
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Skittles Rainbow Science Experiment
Supplies & Materials
- Original Skittles
- Wild Berry Skittles for blue
- Warm water
- White plate
- Small cup or pitcher
Instructions
- Sort the Skittles into color groups—red, orange, yellow, green, purple, and blue. You’ll need Wild Berry Skittles for the blue.
- Place the Skittles on the plate in a color wheel pattern, like spokes of a bicycle, with each color pointing toward the center. Use rainbow order for the best visual.
- Slowly pour warm water into the middle of the plate. Add just enough so the water reaches the base of the Skittles without covering them completely.
- Watch as the colors begin to dissolve and spread toward the center, creating a swirling rainbow display.
- Ask your child what they see happening. What colors are mixing? How do primary colors combine to make new ones?
