Let’s talk about a sensory play idea that’s slimy, squishy, and surprisingly simple to make: chia seed slime!
This activity is a hit for curious little hands and perfect for kids who love messy fun, but might sneak a taste here and there. (I see you, toddlers of the world!) Bonus? It’s super easy to whip up, and you probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen.
Supplies
• 1/4 cup of chia seeds
• 1 3/4 cups of water
• Food coloring
• 2 cups of cornstarch
How to make Chia Slime
1. Mix Ingredients:
In a bowl, combine your chia seeds, water, and a few drops of food coloring. Stir it up like you’re making a magic potion.
2. Refrigerate Overnight:
Pop that bowl into the fridge and let the chia seeds work their magic. By morning, you’ll have a gel-like, gloopy texture that’s ready for slime-making.
3. Add Cornstarch:
Gradually mix in the cornstarch until you’ve got your desired slime consistency. Want it moldable? Add a bit more. Prefer it drippy and oozy? Hold back on the cornstarch. This step is pure trial and error (aka part of the fun).
And ended up having to use my hands to really mix the cornstarch in.
Play Tips
Set Up a Water Bowl
Let’s be honest—kids love messy play, but many also like a quick hand rinse mid-squish. A water table, a small bowl of water, or even a damp towel nearby works wonders to keep the chaos contained.
After first touching the slime, he went and rinsed his hands in his water table. So I’m glad we had that option.
How to Extend the Play
Add some small toys, cookie cutters, or measuring cups for scooping and shaping. Your kiddo can pretend they’re a slime scientist or a baker whipping up imaginary slime cookies.
Keep It Outdoors (if Possible)
This is one of those activities where an outdoor setup saves you from finding cornstarch in random places for days. If you’re indoors, lay down a play mat for easy cleanup. We did both.
Why we love it
This slime is more than just fun—it’s also a great sensory experience. The chia seeds add a unique, bumpy texture, while the cornstarch gives it that satisfying squish. Plus, knowing it’s taste-safe means less worry about your toddler sneaking a slime snack.
So, grab your ingredients and get ready to create some slimy memories! Just remember—this slime may be taste-safe, but it’s definitely not dinner-approved.
Happy slime making!
