Discussion

How can I help my child to think scientifically?

 Scientific thinking is based on things that children naturally have in abundance—curiosity, energy, and playfulness! While it may sound too easy to be true, a great way to develop scientific thinking is to let children explore and play. As children explore the everyday world, ask questions, and start developing theories about how the w...
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Discussion

How can I encourage my son to play outside and enjoy nature?

 Take advantage of your son’s natural curiosity, and provide him with plenty of experiences to explore nature using all of his senses. For example, go for a nature walk and let him have fun navigating his way through rocks, mud, snow, tree branches, and roots. You can also give your child a bucket so they can collect leaves, acorns, pin...
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Discussion

What are some good science gifts for my 2nd grader?

There are many great gift ideas for your budding scientist! Look for toys that are fun and engaging, and involve children in authentic scientific inquiries. LeapFrog has a number of fun science learning apps, such as The Science of Disney and The Magic School Bus: Dinosaurs. Other great science toys include 4M’s “Green Science Kits” wh...
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Discussion

How can I encourage my child's interest in science, technology, engineering, and math?

 One of the best ways to encourage children’s interest in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) is to provide them with plenty of opportunities to play, because it is through play that children learn to be thinkers, builders, and inventors. Look for toys that encourage important scientific skills such as creativity (e.g., Le...
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Discussion

Do you have any recommendations for books about the scientific method?

Teaching children how scientists go about asking and answering scientific questions is a great way to get them interested in science. “How to Think Like a Scientist: Answering Questions by the Scientific Method” by Stephen P. Kramer and “Mad Margaret Experiments with the Scientific Method” by Eric Braun are two great books that take ch...
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Discussion

My daughter loves science. How can I keep her interested?

 Education research shows that while boys and girls are equally interested in science at an early age, by the time girls are 12 or 13, many girls begin to lose interest in science. To keep your daughter interested, provide her with as many science-related opportunities as you can. For example, take her to science museums or zoos and loo...
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Discussion

My child asks lots of science questions that I can't answer.

 As parents, it can be uncomfortable when your child asks you a question that you don’t know the answer to! Rather than make something up, it’s okay to let your child know that adults don’t always have all the answers. Admitting you are unsure teaches your child that is okay to be honest when you don’t know the answer to a question. It ...
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Discussion

Why is it important to learn about the seasons?

 Learning about the seasons helps children understand the passage of time, and teaches them about change. While some seasonal changes are more obvious (like changes in the weather), there are many important subtle differences related to each season like changes in the type of food that is available. For example, in some parts of the wor...
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