How can I explore science every day with my child?

As you and your child talk about and explore scientific processes, skills and content, you'll be acting just like scientists. Explore science by...

Reading Together

Talking Together
• Talk about natural phenomena: the weather, animal behaviors, plants, clouds, etc.
• Talk about how characters in books solve their problems
• Wonder aloud and ask questions relating to your activities
• Encourage your child to make estimations, predictions and hypotheses
• Allow plenty of time to discuss the investigations you are doing together
• Talk together about the questions you have about your indoor and outdoor environments
• Talk about the changes you notice in the weather, each other, the seasons, etc.
• Look for patterns and sequences in everyday activities: "After we have breakfast, what happens next?"
• Ask questions about different objects and experiences: "How is this the same? How is it different?"

Making a Science Area in Your Home
• Have hand lenses, a balance, measuring tools and other science equipment available
• Provide things from nature for your child to investigate such as seedlings, shells, leaves or rocks
• Make sure there are plenty of project materials for your child to use: paper, markers, play dough, modeling clay, paints for experimenting with and mixing colors, recycled materials for inventing and building
• Make and display charts and lists
• Help your child make drawings, models and books about your investigations
• Visit your local children's museum and science or environmental center

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