Preschool Science Activity

A good preschool science activity encourages your child to observe similarities and differences, and ask "why" questions.

Nature walks are a favorite at our house. I'm not the outdoorsy type so it took time for me to learn to enjoy nature. Now I look forward to our walks in the neighborhood, at the park, and at local lakes and nature preserves.

Usborne's Beginners Nature books provide accurate information and suggestions for child-friendly websites and activities.

Here's some additional information about Usborne books for preschoolers.

When taking a nature walk, leave enough time in your schedule to allow your child to freely explore. Point out different plants, trees, bugs and animals. Prepare a scavenger hunt by making a picture list of items your child should look for. Encourage her to collect leaves, rocks, flowers, acorns or bugs.

Weather and Seasons

Bundle up and take walks in the wintertime, or put on boots and grab an umbrella for rainy day outings. Discuss differences in weather and seasons, and if you live in a safe neighborhood, don't be afraid to go out at night.

Nature takes on a different look after the sun goes down. Venturing out after dark is a great preschool science activity. It gives your child a chance to observe the moon, stars and night creatures. It is also a fun time to cuddle up on the patio, tell stories and play with flashlights.

Here are some additional Preschool Science Activities:

Collages are a great way to display nature collections, such as leaves. They can also be used to help children learn to sort and categorize.

Gardening is a great preschool science activity. Plant a seed, flowers, garden or tree in your back yard. Talk to your child about what plants need to grow, and let them help with care taking. Take pictures documenting your plant's progress, and place them in a notebook or scrapbook.

Buy a ladybug, butterfly or frog kit so your child can observe its life cycle. Let your child take a net to the creek and catch tadpoles or minnows. On a trip to the country to visit his cousins, my son came home with this little beauty:

It was a great way to dispose of those pesky little houseflies!
My children retain much of what they learn on homeschooling field trips. Zoos, aquariums, farms and nature trails are just right for preschoolers.

Attract nature to your yard by setting up a bird feeder, spider web frame or butterfly garden. Here are some ideas for arranging a science center in your home school.