Building a solid foundation for science before entering preschool is highly beneficial for early education and child development. When you cultivate scientific thinking from a young age, you’re ensuring your child grows up with the problem-solving skills they need to thrive. Here are a few engaging activities you can use to open your toddler up to the world of science.

How to Incorporate Science Into Your Child’s Daily Routine

1. Narrate Your Car Rides

Car rides are an efficient way to demonstrate motion. You don’t need to discuss physics with your toddler, but familiarizing them with the feelings behind each shift in motion will give them a concept to work with when preschool begins. For instance, when you accelerate, mention the feeling of being pushed back against your seat. 

2. Stimulate Senses in the Sandbox

Sandboxes are an unexplored world of fascinating sights, textures, and sounds to a toddler. A backyard sandbox is a simple way to help stimulate your child’s senses. Give them tools to dig, dump, and build. Make comments on the motion of the sand, express its grittiness, and use water to show your little one how it can change the form and texture of the grains.

3. Visit a Science Museum

Science museums, particularly those geared toward children, provide a valuable educational experience. With exciting interactive exhibits that allow kids to be a part of experiments, your child will gain an early appreciation for science. Bring your family to a child-friendly science museum for a day of learning and fun.

4. Make Them Your Assistant Chef

Some parents hesitate to enlist the help of young children while cooking, but there are plenty of age-appropriate ways for them to assist. Ask your little one to help you pour ingredients into pots and bowls, then stir together. Note changes in color, texture, and consistency. Allow them to touch, smell, and taste safe ingredients throughout the process.

5. Explore Nature

Take your little one to a nearby park or forest to discover life in the great outdoors. Start a nature log and write down what your child reflects on, including animals, plants, and various sensory observations. Look for interesting flowers and leaves, and take a few home to press into your nature journal.

Developing a scientific mind will help your child learn, explore, and grow. Les Enfants Preschool in Palisades Park, NJ, provides quality early childhood education in an enriching environment. This preschool emphasizes the importance of academics alongside play, so their teachers employ an engaging curriculum consisting of fun and educational activities. Learn more about their research-backed curriculum online. To schedule a visit at their facility, call (201) 592-6695.