Science is everywhere in the early years and it doesn't need to be complicated. Here are three simple science invitations we love to do where children can explore the basic foundations of science in an open ended intentional setting.
1. Invitations to Create Potions// So much of the magic of early childhood is creating wondrous concoctions. We invited the children to create potions with Colorations® Metallic BioColors Paint mixed with Water, Dawn Dish Soap, TTS Potion Bottles, Beakers, Pipettes, Twisty Droppers, & the Excellerations® Pour and Measure Set.
2. Neon Fizzing Explosions// We provided beakers filled with vinegar mixed with Colorations® Fluorescent Tempera Paint + Learning Resources twisty droppers on a bed of baking soda. The children were invited to explore the materials in order to create a chemical reaction.
3. Ooey Gooey Oobleck// We provided cornstarch & water mixture with Colorations® Fluorescent Tempera Paint. The children were invited to explore the oobleck with recycled produce baskets through sensory play.
These types of invitations children build a foundation for future scientific learning. Science provides children with the opportunities to explore their environments as they learn about cause & effect, cycles of nature, comparisons, chemical & physical changes, reactions & properties of matter. As curiosity builds, children learn to be patient with projects that take time & how to make decisions based on the data they gathered. A basic skill for "scientific research" is the ability to observe & realize how things are the same & how they are different. Developing this ability to understand likeness & differences builds a science base as well as a skill for future math & reading skills. These science experiment process teaches wonder, process, & patience – while being fun while being a magical open ended experience.
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