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Simple idea: That’s why water pearls are suddenly so popular with children
They are so small and yet versatile: water pearls
© Irina Tiumentseva / Getty Images
Water pearls were originally developed to water plants. They consist of superabsorbent polymers and are available in different colors – thus they have not only a practical, but also a decorative use. And it is precisely this fact that makes the little balls so interesting for children.
Gel pearls, hydro spheres, aqua pearls or glibber spheres – there are now a large number of synonyms for water pearls. However, the way they work is always the same: By absorbing moisture, the balls can increase in volume many times over and continuously release them back to the plants. Normally. Because the water pearls have a completely different use for children. We have summarized which ideas can be implemented at home and provide great play opportunities (indoors or outdoors).
Preparing water pearls: you have to pay attention to this
Most manufacturers deliver Water pearls when dry – and that’s a good thing, because it is especially exciting for children to watch the balls swell. In order for the hard granulate to become soft pearls, they must be soaked in water for at least four to twelve hours (the exact time can be found on the respective packaging). If the balls have already absorbed all of the moisture prematurely, you can simply pour in fresh water. Only in this way can the pearls exploit their full volume and be used for playing. But be careful: there is a risk of swallowing, so the small balls are not suitable for children under three years of age.
Creative tips for playing with water pearls
A simple and exciting task for children is to create the colorful water pearls to sort by color. Depending on how many colors are included in the set, you will need a corresponding number of bowls to separate the balls. Since the wet pearls feel very slimy, dexterity and endurance are promoted at the same time.
Or you can make some kind of water pearls out of the water pearls Crumple ball to play with and kneading. For this you need an empty plastic bottle and an ordinary balloon. Put the dry balls with enough water (in a ratio of 1: 3) in the bottle and put the balloon over the opening. Tip the contents into the balloon and knot it.
Another way to play is to transparent water pearls put in a bowl and fill it with water – this means that the balls are no longer visible. The task for your children is to find the To feel pearls and fish out of the water. Alternatively, this idea can also be implemented in a paddling pool in the garden.
With water pearls you can also use whole Ocean landscapes be created. Use for this only blue ballsthat you swell in a clear bowl or vase. Then the pearls are decoratively decorated with marine animals and stones or shells. There are no limits to the design options.
- Freezing the water pearls is particularly useful on warm days. Put this on for two to three hours in the freezer, then your children can play with it as usual – preferably outside. However, always be careful not to put the balls in your mouth (even if they are non-toxic).
What you need to know about shelf life
Water pearls are basically reusable, but should be washed off under running water after two or three days at the latest – if your children have played with them. This will reduce the risk of bacteria spreading on the surface. If the balls lose their volume, you simply have to pour new water over them. Do you want these Water pearls you should know that most products are made of environmentally friendly materials and (depending on the manufacturer) are 100 percent biodegradable.
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