Ways to help children learn the basics of science

Jul 2012
Science should be especially fun for children because it is a subject that requires individuals to learn through trial and error.

Science is often considered quite a complex subject for young children as many believe it involves learning difficult facts and equations.

However, science is made up of a number of different factors. These include observing what is happening, predicting the most likely outcome and testing initial predictions to form an evaluation.

Science should be especially fun for children because it is a subject that requires individuals to learn through trial and error which, in turn, keeps things fresh and exciting for children.

So how can children learn the basics of science?

Allow children to have their own ideas
Parents need to understand that their child will already have their own perception and thoughts on the physical world, so a careful approach needs to be taken when trying to introduce them to more specific scientific interpretations.

Therefore, instead of informing children that their idea is incorrect, parents need to encourage their child to be inquisitive and ask questions without discouraging their own thoughts on a topic.

Parents should help children to observe things in different ways by asking children why they think certain things happen.

Practical is far more interesting than theory
Children will often find reading from a book and writing down theories quite boring and repetitive. In many cases they need to be presented with fresh and exciting ways to learn.

Therefore, practical methods of learning are often far more beneficial than theory. Children find hands-on activities engaging and thrilling and getting involved with things like experimentation from an early age can be a great way for them to learn.

The best activity for your child
Different children have different interests. Therefore, it is important that parents focus their science-based activities around the specific interests of their child.

For example, if a child enjoys cooking then allow them to observe how sugar melts into caramel. This is a fun and tailored scientific experience that has genuine scientific benefits.