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Kids always like to send secret messages to each other. Tell their cool or naughty little secrets without a parent or teacher discovering it. There are a few ways that they can do this and ingredients are in the kitchen.

*Mix equal parts water and baking soda together. Using a cotton swab, toothpick, or paintbrush, write your message onto white paper. Allow the ink to dry. Hold the paper up to a light bulb and watch the ink turn brown.

*Grape juice works as well.

*The easiest method is pure lemon juice in a glass container. This, also, turns brown.

*This is a bit more involved process. First, add 1 teaspoon iodine to about 10 teaspoons water. Set this aside for later. Next, mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch to 4 teaspoons water in a pan. Heat, while stirring, until smooth. Boil to make a gravy. DON'T BURN. Remove from heat. Dip a utensil to paint or write with. Let dry. Using a small sponge or a brush, swipe the iodine solution over the paper. The message should turn purple.

IMPORTANT NOTE: When using a light bulb to see the messages, DO NOT USE halogen bulbs. There is too much of a risk of setting fire to the paper.

And, parents, the messages may be a secret but watch the little ones when they use the stove.

Have fun.

Learn more about this author, Lillian Henry.
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