9am Science Class: Worms, Moon Sand, Watermelon Snack

Wow! I could not have been more pleased with the first Science class! It was so wonderful to see new faces as well as familiar ones!

As I looked through the pictures, I saw so much learning taking place and I hope you too will see it in these curious faces. To most I know it looks like playing... good! That's how we learn! I believe so strongly that this is a critical time in your child's development. By allowing them these opportunities to observe other children, try out new ideas as well as familiar ones, we are giving them the tools for success in later life.

My science classes are centered around concepts that are age appropriate for toddlers/preschoolers. I try very hard to not put out anything that they can not explore themselves or do by themselves. I don't think there is much learning for the child taking place when the adult/parent is doing all the work!
The moon sand offers a paradox of experiences for the children. It seems to move by the vibrations that are made in the box. It can be molded almost into a solid but can then fall right back apart again. It offers a wonderful sensory experience without being overwhelmingly messy. I am looking forward to discovering new ways to explore this new substance and am looking for appropriate tools for the children to use with it.



Wonder Physics (or Physical) Science experiences involve the children in:

Moving objects, directing movement themselves, and various ways of representing motion.

Target ball is the perfect opportunity for children to experiment with action = reaction. When I consider physical science experiences for the children these are the criteria I am guided by:

1. The child must be able to produce the movement by his or her own actions.

For example:

Building the tower (with the help of another child or adult is always encouraged). Throwing the ball at the tower to see the result.

2. The child must be able to vary his or her own actions.

Moving closer or further away from the tower to knock it down. Changing the position of themselves in relation to the tower. Building the tower taller or shorter to see the various reaction.

3. The reaction of the object must be observable.

The child observes the target being knocked down with the ball or perhaps he/she missed the target. The adult can help the child evaluate reasons why this occurred.

4. The reaction of the object must be immediate.

Wonder Chemistry focuses on aspects of transformation.

Some transformation experiences will be non-reversible while others will be reversible.

This week the children were able to cut pieces of watermelon which helps them to understand whole vs. parts. Then transform the solid pieces of melon into juice. Then of course they are able to experience the taste of this transformation. What provided an additional challenge was what happened if the chunks of melon were not smashed enough, the children couldn't get the juice from the straw.

All of these aspects of transformation can be helped along by the adult by just narrating the experience. Hmmm....I wonder why the juice is not coming out of the straw. I see some big chunks, what do you think would happen if we smash them some more? Etc...

Wonder Biology and Ecology focuses on the perspective of animals and plants.

However, my goal is to not only provide experiences where the children observe animals and plants but instead to directly participate with them. This is why I love using worms in the classroom. They are a safe "animal" for children to touch without worry of getting bitten. They can hold, touch, squirt, etc... all by themselves. They can learn how to respect living creatures while exploring different reactions from the animal.