Before The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, others experienced the wonder of Narnia, too. In C.S. Lewis' The Magician's Nephew, Digory and his friend Polly must help save London from the clutches of the evil Queen Jadis. Will Aslan the lion appear in time to help?

In the story, the children originally get in to trouble (stumbling upon the evil queen) because of some misguided magic on the part of Diggory's Uncle Andrew. But, there is also good magic, the kind that heals, protects, and even allows animals to talk. Although we don't live in the magical land of Narnia, did you know there's a way to add a little "magic" to your day with a few simple ingredients? Try the following kitchen experiment with your loved ones and see how science can feel absolutely magical!

Red Cabbage pH Indicator

Materials needed:

  • Half a head of red cabbage
  • Ice cube tray
  • Clear cups (3)
  • Vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Water

Instructions:

  • Chop cabbage. Put in saucepan and cover with water.
  • Bring cabbage and water mixture to a boil. Turn off heat and let cool.
  • Strain the cabbage water.
  • Pour strained liquid into the ice cube tray. Freeze.
  • Fill the clear cups: first cup with water, second cup with vinegar, and third cup with water mixed with 1 tsp baking soda.
  • Put a few ice cubes in each cup. Watch as the magic happens!

This activity was adapted from sciencekiddo.com/red-cabbage-ph-indicator/.. Check out the website for more detailed information about the science behind the magic.




DCT Staff Thoughts

Narnia captured my heart decades ago, as a young girl reading the books by flashlight long after bedtime. As a parent, I love reading the stories with my children, too. I think what I'm most drawn to is the magical elements. Whether it's making magic happen in the kitchen, or watching it in a classic play at the theater, I can't wait to share in these moments with my family.

These activities are for you to enjoy while you are at home and hopefully bring a little DCT fun into your quality time together. We have found that the more prepared our audiences can be before they get to the theater, the more engaged they will be as an audience. After you do science that feels like magic at home, come see the magic on stage in C.S. Lewis' The Magician's Nephew at Dallas Children's Theater.

Jessica Colaw
DCT Communications

 

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