ZOO ZONE FOR KIDS
DIY Craft: Sun Prints By Emily Blum, Educator
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Colorful construction paper Clear plastic wrap, or a large piece of plexiglass Leaves, flowers, toy animals or other flat items Small rocks to use as weights
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WILD MAGAZINE • SPRING 2021 • JACKSONVILLE ZOO AND GARDENS
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Some Science Connections Behind the Fun: Some of the sun’s energy travels to Earth as light waves. Certain light waves, called ultraviolet waves, have enough energy to break the bonds of chemicals, like the dyes in the construction paper. In this experiment, you will see that the construction paper shaded by leaves and flowers did not change color. That is because the ultraviolet light waves were blocked out and could not damage the paper. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) light can damage skin too. That is why it is smart to wear UV-blocking sunscreen or stay in the shade when the sun is strong. To be environmentally-friendly, we recommend marine-safe sunscreens. Check the ingredients labeled on the back of your sunscreen to ensure that marine-harming chemicals or micro/nano-sized particles are not included.
