Science in the Air

Young children are naturally curious. The desire to question, hypothesize, explore, and investigate is part of their very being. This inherent sense of inquiry provides the foundation for science with young children, from inquisitive toddlers to curious third-graders. Early childhood educators can build on children's questions, eagerness, and enthusiasm to help them learn science. They can foster scientific knowledge by thoughtfully preparing rich environments, indoors and out; by introducing a scientific vocabulary during engaging activities and long-term studies or themes; and by providing many opportunities for children to problem solve and investigate. In this article, the authors discuss how to create an environment that promotes science, undertake in-depth explorations, and build higher order thinking skills and positive approaches to learning. They also discuss content standards of the National Science Education Standards (NRC 1996) for K-4 which include the areas of: (1) Science as Inquiry; (2) Physical Science; (3) Life Science; (4) Earth and Space Science; (5) Science and Technology; and (6) Science in Personal and Social Perspectives.