One of this year’s highlights was the “Make a Bouncy Ball” workshop, where children explored the intersection of science and creativity. Led by Hadi Bedir, a biomedical engineering and psychology student from Lebanon, the session gave young participants the chance to create their own bouncy balls while learning about polymers and chemical reactions.
“This workshop is more than just fun—it’s an opportunity to understand science in action,” said Bedir. He introduced children aged nine and above to Borax, explaining its role in creating elasticity by forming polymers when combined with glue. “It’s a hands-on way to show how chemistry shapes the world around us,” he added.
Children eagerly participated, mixing warm water with Borax powder and blending glue, glitter, and food colouring to personalise their creations. Bedir guided them through each step, demystifying the science behind the transformation. “The glue’s molecule chains interact with Borax to form a dense, elastic structure, turning a liquid into a solid bouncy ball,” he explained.
The workshop also fostered psychological growth, encouraging children to embrace new experiences. When 10-year-old Fahad hesitated to handle the sticky mixture, Bedir patiently reassured him, inspiring confidence and active engagement.
The room buzzed with excitement as children tested their creations. “My ball bounces so high—it’s amazing!” exclaimed 11-year-old Ragad Mohammed.
As SIBF’s 43rd edition wraps up on November 17, its 12-day celebration of literature and learning has left a lasting impression. Organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), this year’s event featured close to 1,3500 activities for children and adults, seamlessly merging education and entertainment to ignite young imaginations.
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