Science in the preschool classroom

Nurture the curiosity of your students with science!

Preschoolers are naturally curious about the world around them which can lead to exciting and fun opportunities for learning in the preschool classroom…

Science is more than just Bubbles and Magnifying Glasses

Often times, preschool teachers shy away from planning for science in the preschool classroom because they are under the impression that science is all about formal experiments and chemical reactions. However, there are many other ways to introduce science in the classroom that will encourage experimentation, investigation, exploration, observation and more.

Discovering our World

In the preschool classroom, think about science in terms of exploring, discovering, and nurturing your preschool students’ curiosity about the world around them.

Start with a Question

When planning for science in your preschool classroom start by asking questions that bring meaningful information to your preschool students. Questions can lead to activities that encourage children to explore, discover, and draw conclusions…

What is inside a pumpkin?
Why are there lines on the pumpkin?
Do all pumpkins have the same shape?
 

Increase Vocabulary

Science activities can help increase descriptive vocabulary. Words such as crunchy, soft, sink, float, juicy, dry, fast, slow, heavy, light, rough, smooth, hot, and cold are just a few examples of words that can be reinforced and help preschoolers gain a better understanding of their world.

Go Outdoors

Take students outdoors so they can have real experiences in their world. Go to parks, take nature walks, plant seeds, dig in the dirt, climb on rocks, and feel the air. Go outdoors in all types of weather – each experience will bring new opportunities for learning.

Bring the Outdoors Inside

Bring in items your students can explore such as rocks, shells, seeds, leaves, plants, flowers, fruit, vegetables, dirt, sand, and more. Include a variety of containers filled with objects students can manipulate, count, weigh, and sort.

Use Graphs and Charts

Share simple graphs and charts with your students. Design charts that your students can complete independently and as a group. After completing a chart or graph, invite students to discuss what the information on the chart or graph means. Display the information for students to look at later and to share with their parents.

Available on Amazon

 

Links to Grow On…

To read more on science in the classroom, read this NAEYC article: “Science in the Early Years.”

Planting and Growing Beans

Water Balloon Science

Adding to the Science and Nature Center in Preschool

Graphing the Weather with Preschoolers

Meet Einstien: Science Made Fun in Preschool

Fun with Colorful Bubble Science in Preschool

A Little Milky Science in Preschool

Crunchy Leaf Science in Preschool

 

 

Deborah J Stewart

Deborah J Stewart

Every time I think I know everything I need to know about teaching young children, God says, "Hold on a minute!" and gives me a new challenge.

Let me tell ya...

With each new challenge that you overcome, you will find yourself better equipped and more passionate about teaching young children.

God didn't call wimps to lead, teach, or care for His children. Nope, he has high expectations, so get ready. You will have to give your very best but after teaching for over 30 years, I can tell you that it is a wonderful and rewarding journey.

Whenever your calling feels hard, just remember, 'He who began a good work in you (and in the children you serve) will be faithful to complete it.'

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