Starry Night at Home: Animal Blubber

Whales and seals and polar bears, oh my! These animals all use a layer of fat called blubber to keep warm in cold waters. See how long you can hold your hand in ice water using a “blubber glove!”

*We recommend that you do this activity before Seal Pups.

Materials List: Inuit Starry Night at Home

We are excited for you to participate in Girlstart’s Starry Night at Home, including an Inuit Lore star show and hands-on STEM activities! Gather materials from around the house and join us on Thursday, January 7th for Starry fun.

Animal Blubber

  • Ice
  • Large bowl
  • 4 sandwich-sized plastic baggies
  • Shortening (about 1 cup)
  • Towel
  • Water

Crystal Snowflakes

  • Cup
  • Dark construction paper
  • Magnifying glass or microscope (optional)
  • Salt (any type)
  • Saucepan (optional)
  • Small paintbrush or cotton swab
  • Spoon
  • Tablespoon
  • Water

Inuksuk Landmarks

  • Bag
  • 5-10 stones

Marshmallow Igloo

  • Bowl (optional)
  • Confectioners’ sugar (1 cup – optional)
  • Paper plate
  • Pencil
  • Regular or mini marshmallows
  • Tablespoon (optional)
  • Water (optional)

Seal Pups

  • Cotton balls or pillow filling
  • Craft glue
  • 2 googly eyes
  • 6 2-inch pieces of brown or black string/yarn
  • Rubber band
  • Ruler
  • Scissors
  • Small black pom pom
  • White felt, foam, or cardstock
  • White sock