Find planetarium shows that are geared toward younger children. [1] X Research source See if the local library has scientific exhibits or workshops for kids. You can also discuss scientific concepts present in everyday locations like grocery stores. For instance, talk about where eggs come from or what “organic” means.
For example, give the kids seeds so they can plant and learn about how things grow. Take the kids outside in all seasons so they learn about weather and seasonal changes. Examine natural wonders and encourage the children to ask questions about what they see, such as, “How are mountains formed?”
Magnifying glasses Rules Scales Binoculars Tweezers Pipettes
For example, get kids to draw a growing plant every few days. Then they can compare the pictures to track how the plant changed. For instance, use your phone or a tape recorder to record nature sounds.
If you’re using tools such as tweezers, scissors, or thermometers, show the kids the safe way to handle them and always monitor the kids while they’re working with them. It’s important to set up purposeful science lessons and experiments that are developmentally appropriate to the children’s age. [8] X Expert Source Bianca Solorzano, M. Ed. Infant Development & Montessori Consultant Expert Interview. 9 November 2021.
Get preschoolers involved with baking projects too! Ask kids what they think will happen to dough when you put it in a hot oven or what might happen if they put a liquid in the freezer. Doing a science experiment in front of the kids helps get them excited about science. [10] X Expert Source Courtney CoprivizaElementary School Teacher Expert Interview. 18 June 2021.
For example, ask them which objects or toys they think will float or sink. If you’re using the water tables, freeze colored water and add the cubes to the water. Talk with the kids about what happens when the water melts.
Ask the preschoolers to build the tallest structure they can. Then ask them to make the sturdiest tower they can.
Plants Animals Weather Human biology Planets and space Physical science
For example, if a child asks you why dandelions turn white and fluffy, ask them what happens to the fluffy seeds and why they think they float. Don’t be afraid to learn from mistakes. It’s important for kids to see that things don’t always go as planned and you both may learn something new. If you don’t know the answer to their question, find it together using books or the Internet.
For example, to learn about gravity consider if a feather or rock will hit the ground first when dropped from a height. Ask the kids to predict what will happen and then test it so they can see.
For example, if you’re explaining how plants turn sunlight into energy, clearly call it photosynthesis. You may be surprised that kids can pick up and remember scientific terms. If you’re concerned kids don’t grasp an idea, say something like, “If this doesn’t make sense to you, think about it like this. " Then describe the concept in another way.
For example, instead of giving a child a tool and directing them to use it, let the child try to figure it out. Preschoolers’ natural curiosity will get them to start asking questions and learning about the tool.
Share your own passions related to science with the children. Explain your interests and why you find them fascinating. The children may gain interest in these same subjects.
