Static balloon experiments
Can you make your hair stand up, water bend, or stick a balloon to the wall? These classic experiments are a fun & simple way to play with science.
A balloon and a bit of friction is all you need for some hair-raising fun!
Rub a blown-up balloon on your hair (or a wool jumper) and watch as strands stand straight up, or press it against the wall to see it magically stick. Or maybe you can bend some water! Can you get it to pick up bits of paper too?
Kids can test different surfaces and objects, exploring how static electricity works in real life.
The science behind it: when you rub the balloon, it collects tiny negative charges (electrons). These charges build up and create static electricity, which attracts lighter objects - or even your hair! When you bring it near a wall, it pushes away some of the wall’s electrons and attracts the positively charged parts. This opposite charge is what makes the balloon cling to the wall without glue or tape!
It’s a playful first introduction to physics that feels like magic.
Materials
Prep
Step 1:
Blow up the balloon and tie it.
Step 2:
Have a surface or fabric ready for rubbing (hair, jumper, or carpet).
Play
Step 1:
Rub the balloon on your hair or suitable fabric for several seconds.
Step 2:
Hold it close to your hair and watch it stand up.
Step 3:
Press the balloon gently against a wall and see it stick.
Step 4:
Experiment with picking up tissue pieces or moving light objects with the static charge.
Extend
Surface test: Try rubbing the balloon on different fabrics (cotton, wool, carpet) to compare results.
Static picker: Cut tissue paper / tissues into confetti and watch the balloon pick it up.
Water bender: Hold the charged balloon near a thin stream of tap water and see it bend.
Balloon battle: Charge two balloons and see if they repel or attract each other.
Science Snap: Take silly photos with “static hair” standing on end!
