When crafting with my boys, I love to see if I can incorporate science and educational aspects into the craft. If I can – then I’m all for it. After celebrating Independence Day a few months ago, we decided to make some explosions of our own. With a few simple ingredients that can be found around the house, we created these homemade rockets that fly.

For science nerds like myself, I really enjoyed explaining the rocket science process to the kids. Here’s how it all works.

When the water mixes with the antacid tablet, carbon dioxide gas is produced. Due to securing the lid onto the tube, those gas bubbles inside are trapped in the rocket body. As more and more bubbles are generated, the pressure inside builds creating enough force to break apart from the lid, which causes the rocket to launch into the air.

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As a result, watch the rockets fly!! One of them went about three feet in the air and was so cool! We continued to add antacids and had air contests, and races to see which one would launch first. This was a fun and educational way to learn about rocket science!

How To Make Homemade Rockets That Fly

Materials:

Antacid Tablets
Cardboard (we used snack boxes)
Mini M&M tubes
Hot glue gun
Water
Decorations (funky tape, washi tape and stickers)
Clay

Step 1

Prepare the M&M tubes for the rocket body by first emptying them (preferably by eating all of the candy). This was one of the kids’ favorite steps! Also, remove the M&M wrapper from the exterior and cut the tab that holds the lid onto the tube.

Step 2

Create a mini cone from the cardboard for the top of the rocket. We used the disc method to create a cone shape. First, cut out a circle or a “disk” from the material. Next, draw a triangle wedge in the middle. We used a ruler so the little ones can make the straightest line possible. Lastly, cut out the triangle and bring the cut sides of your disc together to form a cone. Using teamwork, one person needs to keep the sides closed as another glues the inside. Let dry.

Step 3

Decorate! I always love watching my boys let their artistic side go wild. My oldest strategically places each sticker and tape in a symmetrical manner as the youngest puts as many decorations on the tube he can, overlapping and covering other items.

Step 4

Furthermore, hot glue the cones to the bottom of the tubes (opposite of the cap) and head outside with your rockets, water and antacids! I do NOT suggest doing this in doors.

Step 5

Place a small ball of clay on the lid of the tube and attach an antacid tablet. Most importantly. this assists with being able to keep the tablet in place so the explosion doesn’t set off too soon and is a hit! Also, add about a teaspoon of water inside of the rocket. Finally, close the lid tightly, place on the grass or sidewalk and take a few steps back.