The Great Pretenders Galactic Explorer Potion Kit is a space-themed mixing kit where kids make fizzing potions and stretchy slime using baking soda, citric acid, slime and mix-ins.

What's inside

• Slime and a variety of mix-ins
• Baking soda and citric acid for fizzing reactions
• Sealable plastic bottles, a funnel, spoon, tweezers and a magnifying glass
• Squishy space creatures, galaxy-themed charms, and alien and rocket stickers
• A mini activity book

How it works

Kids follow the activity book or invent their own "potions", scooping and mixing ingredients in the bottles. Adding baking soda to citric acid and water makes the mixture fizz, while the slime and charms add stretch and sparkle.

What kids learn

• A first chemistry reaction: mixing an acid and a base and watching it fizz
• Observation: using the magnifying glass to look closely at what happens
• Fine motor skills: scooping, pouring and using tweezers
• Imaginative play: space scientist role play

Good to know before you buy

• Age: 3 and up, with adult supervision. Contains small parts.
• Safety: don't eat the contents, avoid contact with eyes, and wash hands after play.
• Mess: use a tray or washable table, and keep slime off carpet and fabric.
• Storage: keep ingredients and slime in their containers with the lids closed; throw out slime that dries out or discolors.
• Item counts: the listing doesn't say how many of each item are included.
• Value: $40 at Maisonette.

Who it's for

Preschoolers and early elementary kids who love space, slime and "experiments", and families looking for a rainy-day activity.