Dr. Erica Smithwick’s solar s’mores oven experiment for kids.

Do you know where all the heat and light from the sun goes? What if we told you we could catch it—and use it to make a gooey, melty s’more? No fire. No microwave. Just the sun.

Welcome to the power of solar energy. It’s clean, renewable, and even works in places like Pittsburgh where the skies aren’t always sunny.

Let’s Build a Solar Oven

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 Pizza Box, black construction paper, aluminum foil, clear plastic wrap, tape, a wooden skewer or stick, a ruler, and the sun!

Step 1

Line the bottom of the box with black construction paper to absorb heat.

Step 2

Wrap the inside of the lid with foil to reflect sunlight into the box.

Step 3

Cut a flap in the lid and cover the opening with plastic wrap—this traps heat like a greenhouse.

Step 4

Tape the edges to seal in the warm air.

Step 5

Use the skewer to prop the foil-covered flap open—angle it to reflect sunlight inside.

Step 6

Assemble your s’more (graham cracker, chocolate, marshmallow, top cracker).

Step 7

Place it outside in direct sunlight and wait for the magic.

Step 8

Enjoy your sun-cooked snack!

Step 9

Share the idea with your friends. Use #ScienceMoms on social media to share your delicious creations with Dr. Erica Smithwick!

What’s happening here?

The black paper absorbs sunlight and heats up. The foil bounces more light into the box. The plastic wrap keeps the heat inside. It’s the same principle solar panels use—just a little more chocolaty.

Why this matters

Solar power isn’t just cool—it’s critical. Every hour, the sun gives the Earth more energy than we need for an entire year. And cities like Pittsburgh are already making moves:

Electric school buses.
Clean-powered public transit.
Even Penn State is nearly solar-powered.

This DIY solar oven is a simple, hands-on way to show kids that renewable energy isn’t just for scientists or engineers—it’s for families. When we teach our kids what clean energy can do, we show them that solutions are possible—and they can be part of them.

Because the most powerful force for change? Moms—and families—who care.