By: Donna Andrusyk
ISU Extension Family Life Specialist
Early childhood is the perfect time to start a good foundation for science with your child. Spring and summer in Iowa offer many opportunities for helping young children learn some science basics.
According to Donna Andrusyk, ISU Extension Family Life Field Specialist, young children ask a lot of science-related questions. “Why is the sky blue?” “What makes these flowers red?” We often don’t know the answers. When we are busy or in a hurry it can be tempting to say, “You ask too many questions.” But according to Penn State University’s Better Kid Care Program, children are quick to pick up on our negative attitudes and over time might learn to suppress their curiosity.
So how do parents and caregivers best answer children’s questions? Start with a question of your own: “What do you think?” Then take the time to really listen to the child’s answer. Put their ideas into your own words. “You think that angels like the color blue so they painted the sky that way.” A conversation can take an unexpected turn when you take the time to really listen. This type of response is also much more satisfying to children.
Sometimes children are really looking for a scientific answer. Most people have a hard time answering these questions with accurate scientific information. The Better Kid Care program suggests the best approach is to say, “Let’s find out.” This teaches not just the answer but how to find the answers to questions. It also teaches two other important things to children. First, that the child’s question is really important and worth taking time to answer it. Second, that learning things together is interesting and fun.
What fun things can you do with your children this summer to help them learn more about how their world works? Grow a garden to help children understand where food comes from. Go outdoors together and learn about soil, rocks, hills, streams and rivers in a first-hand way – the best way for children to learn. They can learn about movement by playing with toys with wheels. Playing with sand and water, besides being relaxing, helps children understand how their world works.
Don’t forget to read good science books with your child this summer. The number of great science books for kids has skyrocketed, and you can find something that will interest any child. Science with young children can be simple, fun, and part of your everyday life.