Slip and Slide
Have you ever been to a Slip and Slide? Whether in your Very Own backyard, at a Community park, or at an Amusement Park, Slip and Slides offer hours of fun!
Slip and slides are large plastic sheets that are placed on an inclined plane. They may have gentle slopes or be more extreme, depending on the maker and the user’s preference. People usually lie on top of the sheet, and use the sheet to slide downhill. Water is almost necessary to slide properly and quickly. The most common type of Slip and Slide uses a constant spout of water, from a garden hose or a sprinkler system, that is directed onto the sheet to lubricate it and maintain the wearer’s speed. Some sheets are made with a special material that does not require water to slide on, but it requires a lot more effort to get the same speed.
In addition to simply sliding down a Slip and Slide, variety of tricks and stunts can be tried. If the sheet is flat or has a very mild incline, one could bungee jump, though this does require much more effort. Also, a wide variety of flips and twists can be tried. Braking can be done in the same fashion as most sledding sports; this is done by digging the heels of boots into the sheet. While not necessary, a helmet is usually recommended, due to the nature of the stunts.
Slip and slides are not only a bunch of fun, but they are also quite educational as well. Even at a young age, children can learn the basics of physics. The simple act of laying on a Slip and Slide helps children to understand gravity and friction. The faster the slip and slide, the faster one goes downhill, meaning the person experiences a greater force of gravity. Also, with the addition of water, children can learn about surface tension and surface area. The more water is on the sheet, the more the tension and surface area increases. This increases speed, meaning that the person experiences more acceleration due to gravity.
Slip and slides are a great way to teach children the basics of physical science. Not only do they offer hours of entertainment, but they can also provide an educational experience.