Jelly Beans are plentiful this time of the season, but did you know that jelly beans can be used in science, math, and art lessons? Whether you use them before Easter, after Easter, or anytime this spring, these activities are perfect to include in your childcare facility this spring. Best of all, children can eat their work once they are done!

Since jelly beans come in many different kinds and colors, it's best to begin each of these activities by having students separate jelly beans by color. Students can place jelly beans in separate containers for each color.

Science with Jelly Beans

With the separated jelly beans in separated containers, students can monitor the reactions that jelly beans have on various liquids. Liquids could be warm water, juice, saltwater, lemon juice, vinegar, and or Sprite. Pour an equal amount of liquid into each cup of jelly beans. Students can observe changes to the jelly beans after a few minutes and then again after an hour. What happened to the jelly beans? Which liquid caused the most interesting reaction?

Math with Jelly Beans

Jelly beans can be used to show addition and subtraction functions, patterns, and estimation. Students can begin by examining all of the colors of jelly beans and graphing them. If students have five yellow jelly beans, they would color in five squares, but if they have two green jelly beans they would only color two. Jellybeans can also teach basic addition and subtraction. What do you get when you have two jellybeans and add three more? If you have seven jellybeans how many do you have if you give three away? Students can take and add jelly beans to visualize these math concepts better. Specific activities mentioned above can be found in printables here or here.

Jelly Bean Jewelry

Just like candy bracelets and necklaces, you can create a jelly bean bracelet or necklace. This activity will require the help of an assistant teacher or parent helpers. Students can begin by creating a pattern that they would like on their bracelet or necklace. Using an elastic cord, measure out lengths that will fit students' wrists or be long enough to wear around their necks. The assistant teacher or parent helper can help to thread jellybeans onto the cord using a needle. This activity is perfect for a spring or Easter party/celebration.