How to Make a Rainbow

Here’s a super easy activity that kids love. Create an instant rainbow (or at least a partial one) using just two household items. Here’s what you need:

  1. a flashlight
  2. a CD (compact disc)

Remember those ancient relics called CDs? If you were born before the year 2000, you probably have a ton of them rotting away in a closet. Here’s a fun way to use one for an alternative purpose that doesn’t damage it.

All you need to do is shine the flashlight onto the surface of the CD (the side the music is on). The light will reflect off the CD and project a rainbow onto the wall or ceiling. It’s best if you shine the light at an angle onto the CD. It also is best to do it in a dark room for the best rainbow effect. Closets and bathrooms are easy to get really dark with the doors closed and lights off. If you’re in a large room with lots of kids, just get it as dark as you possibly can for the best effect.

It’s a perfect activity to help illustrate the rainbow in the story of Noah and the Ark in Genesis 9:12-17.

Shine the flashlight at an angle towards the music side of the CD. Be careful not to shine the light or the reflection of the light into anyone’s eyes.

If you don’t see your rainbow, don’t worry. Just keep adjusting the angle of your flashlight (or the angle at which you hold the CD). And look all around the walls and ceiling to make sure you find it. It takes a little trial and error, but you’ll find it. There it is!

Who loves rainbows?

Everybody loves rainbows.

Make an instant rainbow in your own home using a flashlight and a CD (compact disc).

Published by

Jesse

Dr. Jesse Joyner travels nationwide as a speaker and entertainer. His primary role is that of a performing juggler spreading joy and the love of learning to family and kids events. H earned his PhD in Educational Studies at Trinity International University (Deerfield, IL). He enjoys playing the piano, bird watching, and old houses. He lives in Richmond, VA with his wife, Sarah, and their three kids - the perfect number for juggling children.