Natalie Grebe
In a classroom setting, there are many ways to engage toddlers and preschool children in age-appropriate science activities. This can be a fun and interactive way to introduce science concepts and foster a love of learning. Here are some ideas for activities that can be incorporated into a preschool classroom and spark a young child’s curiosity about science.
Science center: Set up a science center with age-appropriate books, materials, and tools for children to explore science concepts. This could include items such as magnifying glasses, objects from the outdoors, magnets, or simple science experiment materials.
Nature table: Set up a nature table where children can observe and explore different natural objects such as rocks, shells, and leaves. Encourage children to share their observations and talk about their discoveries.
Sensory table: Incorporate a sensory table into the classroom that focuses on science concepts, such as exploring water, sand, or sensory bins filled with objects that relate to science concepts. Toddlers and preschool children love exploring different textures, colors, and shapes. Consider a sensory bin filled with materials like sand and water and add toys or objects that relate to science concepts, such as rocks or shells.
Cooking activities: Incorporate cooking activities that allow children to explore scientific concepts such as measuring and mixing ingredients, observing changes in food as it cooks or bakes, and learning about healthy food choices. Simple recipes like mixing ingredients for pancakes or baking cookies can be great activities for 2-year-olds.
Nature walks: Take a walk outdoors and point out different natural objects like leaves, flowers, and bugs. Encourage the children to observe and touch these objects and talk about their different characteristics.
Science experiments: Conduct simple science experiments with the children, such as exploring the properties of water, creating a baking soda and vinegar reaction, making ice cream in a bag, or growing plants from seeds.
Water play: Water play can help toddlers and preschool children explore science concepts like volume, buoyancy, and cause and effect. Provide containers of different sizes, sponges, and cups to play with in a water table or sink.
Play with magnets: Playing with magnets can help young children learn about magnetic fields and attraction. Provide different magnets of varying shapes and sizes and encourage the child to experiment with them. Of course, ensure the magnets are large enough that they do not pose a choking hazard.
Science-based stories: Read age-appropriate science books to the children that relate to science concepts they are learning about in the classroom. Encourage children to ask questions and share their observations.
Remember to keep safety in mind when conducting science activities in the classroom and to provide appropriate supervision. Provide materials that are safe and appropriate for their age (for example, be aware of choking hazards). By engaging toddlers and preschool children in age-appropriate science activities, you can help nurture their curiosity and build a foundation for future learning.
