Get Started with Squishy Circuits

Learning is a lifelong endeavor that can sometimes feel challenging, but learning can also be fun. Lots of fun! And for kids, it’s much easier to learn when fun is involved. From experimenting in the classroom to exploring at home, we’re here to talk about how to get started with Squishy Circuits.

Introducing Squishy Circuits

First of all, what are Squishy Circuits? We’re so glad you asked. As the name implies, Squishy Circuits are a fun, hands-on, and squishy way to teach kids the fundamentals of electrical circuits. Using two types of play dough—conductive dough, which allows a current to flow through it, and insulating dough, which does not—kids create their own unique and colorful science experiments.

Most of the Squishy Circuits projects encourage exploration with circuits to light up LED bulbs, make noise with buzzers, and power small motors. These projects are simple and safe, and they’re perfect for kids or adults of any age. And the best part is, kids are learning about science while having fun.

Learning Through Play (Dough)

So, why put so much emphasis on fun? Well, because studies show that children learn best when they’re having fun. Through play, kids gain experience with all kinds of valuable tools, including sharing, communication, and problem solving. They also develop social-emotional traits, such as self- and social-awareness, that help with setting goals and making responsible decisions.

That’s why our goal was to introduce some of the basics of science and technology in a way that seems more like recess than learning. When kids are having a good time, they’re more relaxed and open to trying new ideas, which is the foundation of experimentation and invention.

And because kids are naturally curious, we wanted to help develop that curiosity and encourage kids to take risks, ask questions, investigate, and discover. In other words, learn. 

Hands-On Learning

When it comes to kids, teaching methods are rarely, if ever, a one-size-fits-all deal. Most learn in different ways and at their own pace, which is why the experimentation process is so important. Kids can try one thing, see what works and what doesn’t, and try again with new information.

Because learning is subjective, taking a hands-on approach can help to level the playing field. And that’s where Squishy Circuits excels. We’re all about learning through play. And our projects encourage kids to jump in and form their creations by hand, giving them a direct experience with building a design and connecting the appropriate circuitry to bring it to life.

Through hands-on learning, kids are more inclined to engage with those around them, encouraging teamwork and collaboration. And this approach helps kids develop and apply problem-solving and critical-thinking skills through first-hand investigation.

But perhaps the most relevant argument for hands-on learning is that it promotes better memory retention. When kids are tangibly creating and experimenting on their own, they can better see, feel, and understand how things work or how they don’t, so they can make adjustments that lead to success.

Let’s Get Started

Now that we’ve touched on the importance of learning through hands-on play, it’s time to get started with Squishy Circuits. And really, all you need is some play dough, a few components, and your imagination!

All our projects include step-by-step building guides, available on our website. Or you and your child(ren) or student(s) can design and build your own creations. That’s one of the best things about Squishy Circuits; there is no limit to imagination. Visit our shop to find our play dough and the components you need to begin inventing, creating, and exploring.