Young children are naturally curious explorers who are eager to discover information about the world around them. Children learn scientific concepts through opportunities to actively explore observe and investigate materials and ideas, using their senses. These experiences provide the foundation for abstract and scientific thought. Programs support scientific learning by asking questions, conducting experiments, and helping children gather data and make conclusions. Science concepts are encompassed throughout the key areas of early learning; for example, children use pretend play to explore and manipulate materials, creative arts to discover a variety of ways to express their ideas, and literacy and language arts to research answers to questions.
The children are using simple tools like magnifying glasses to look at "dinosaur bones" in the sand table.
Children are using all of their senses to observe the Biology Department's Iguana.
Jacob is exploring the properties of buoyancy and predicting outcomes.
Working together, children plant new trees at the Outdoor Lab.
With water, eyedroppers, and magnifying glasses, children observe and collect data about earthworms.