Curious Kids! Scientific Learning in Preschool (continued)

What seems obvious to you may be a scientific breakthrough for your child. As you go through the day, observe out loud all the wonders of nature.

• Point out Plants. Take a nature walk and observe the plants you find. Notice the buds on the trees in spring, the falling leaves in the fall and how the grass turns brown in the winter. Go on the Internet to learn more by doing a search for any questions your child has.
• Investigate Insects. Get a magnifying glass and take a closer look at the creepy crawlies in your yard. Children are fascinated by bugs and will enjoy taking a closer look. Take notice of which bugs have wings or antennas or how many legs they have. Check out a few books at the library to take your investigation even further.
• Analyze Animals. While visiting the zoo or farm, notice special characteristics animals have. Can you see how a rhinoceros and hippopotamus are the same and different? Which animals have sharp teeth and claws? How does the giraffe use his long neck and the elephants use his long nose? What do they eat? Where do they live? What are their babies called? Ask a zoo keeper or farmer to answer any questions you may have.

Investigations:

Take a trip to your local library where a wealth of information can be found on any science topic of interest to your child.

• Be sure to check out the non-fiction book section, which will have many books with photographs rather than illustrations. These gems also contain charts, graphs, and everything your child could want to know about various science topics.
• The author Gail Gibbons writes wonderful picture books on a variety of science topics. Check out The Reason for Seasons, From Seed to Plant, Recycle! or any of her other books for great science reading.
• Eric Carle books are wonderful resources for learning about bugs. Take a look at The Very Hungry Caterpillar, The Grouchy Ladybug and The Very Quiet Cricket for a jumpstart to learning about bugs.

Science is quite simple for young children. Help your child learn about her world through conversations, observations and investigations. These simple activities will help build the foundations for your child’s future scientific endeavors!