Tips for Teaching Science to a Toddler or Preschooler

Science encompasses many aspects of a child's life. From exploring, to cooking, to imaginative play, science can be applied frequently in your toddler or pre-schooler's everyday activities. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or caregiver, there are numerous ways to help introduce young minds to the world of science. Here are 15 tips to expose your child to science.

1. Relate Science to Everyday Life

One of the best (and cheapest) methods to teach about science is to relate it to everyday life activities. Nearly all activities - from playing to general life - can be applied in some way or another to science. Here are some examples:

* Is it raining outside? Talk about how rain is formed (yes, even for a 2 year old) and encourage them to learn a new word - "precipitation."

* Playing with a ball? Discuss gravity. In simplest terms possible, talk about the law of gravity.

* Have a thermometer/thermostat? Show your tot the thermostat and inform him/her about the very basics of temperature taking.

* Cooking with eggs? Discuss where eggs come from and what comes from eggs.

* Hear a loud sound? Talk about your ears, and how you hear with your ears.

* Have some ice? Show your little one how it will melt when the temperature changes. Mention the many forms of water.

These are just a few of the ways you can relate simple biology, chemistry, and earth science to the lives of toddlers and preschoolers.

2. Visit a Children's Science Museum

Many cities and larger towns have a children's museum where kids can interact with various exciting exhibits. Your tots will learn about science, and you won't have to teach them (well, for the most part!). If possible, try to get a membership (it makes a great Christmas/Birthday gift!) so you can visit frequently, and attend classes or camps. To locate a center near you, visit the Association of Science and Technology Centers Web-Site right here. They currently have 447 centers listed. (Not all museums are listed, however.) Most museums offers fun courses, camps and workshops as well.

3. Do Science Activites, Crafts and Simple Experiments Together