Slime Time!

What can I use if I don't have contact lens solution for the step that says 'Add 1 tablespoon of contact lens solution'?

If you don't have contact lens solution for the 'Add 1 tablespoon' step, an adult can make a borax activator by dissolving 1 teaspoon of borax in 1 cup of warm water and add it a few drops at a time until the slime forms.

My mixture never pulls away from the sides or stays very sticky after kneading—what should I do?

If the mixture doesn't pull away or remains sticky after kneading for 1–2 minutes, add contact lens solution a few drops at a time while stirring and kneading, or sprinkle a tiny pinch more baking soda and continue kneading until it firms up.

How can I adapt this slime activity for very young children or older kids?

For preschoolers have an adult handle the measuring and the contact solution/baking soda steps and only let them stir, stretch, and squish the finished slime, while older kids can try adjusting the 1 cup shaving cream for extra fluff, experimenting with more food coloring, or mixing in glitter.

How can we personalize or improve our slime to make it extra special before putting it in the airtight container and sharing it on DIY.org?

To personalize your slime, stir glitter, sequins, or small foam beads into the mixture after adding the food coloring and 1 cup shaving cream, or swap white glue for glow-in-the-dark glue and scent it with a drop of kid-safe essential oil before storing in the airtight container.