How to Make Your Own Compass

I pray to the heavens that my girls don't inherit my sense of direction...
or lack thereof.

Starting early outdoor training, last week my fella taught the kiddos how to make their own compass.
Try this quick and exciting experiment with any age group!

All you need is a dish with water, a magnet, compass, needle and cork.

Carefully slice a piece of cork to float your needle.*Leave this task to the adults if working with small children. If you don't have cork, you can use any small, flat material/item that will float.

Fill your dish with water and, if your child is mature enough, allow him/her to magnetize the needle by sliding it (in the same direction) over the magnet about 20 times.

Test the magnetization of the needle by holding it against the compass. As you move the needle around the compass, you'll observe the directional needle following the path of your newly magnetized needle. Super cool!

Float your cork in the water and place your needle on top.

Watch, in awe, as your needle will slowly point north! You've made your own compass! Compare to your traditional compass to ensure that your "point" is spot on.

How easy, fun and educational is this?!?
Try it at home!

Treasure hunt in the backyard?
All arrows point to YES.

Have a day that's right on course, friends!
XOXO From My Hearth to Yours

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