phd science kindergarten

PhD Science from Great Minds Earns High Marks in Rigorous Review from WestEd

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Jun 22, 2023, 09:00 ET

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Richmond, Va. , June 22, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- PhD Science®, an elementary school science curriculum developed by Great Minds PBC®, has earned high marks from WestEd, an independent nonprofit research organization. 

The rigorous review examined PhD Science kindergarten lessons. PhD Science is a free and open educational resource in Grades K–2 that is designed to engage students in authentic science practice. Students ask questions, gather evidence, develop models, and construct explanations while investigating real-world phenomena. The curriculum is also available in grades 3–5, and middle school grades are under development.  

In its review , WestEd noted that the curriculum is strong in a variety of important ways, including the way it is sequenced purposefully to support students in building understanding toward the targeted Next Generation Science Standards. The reviewers also commended the curriculum for soundly setting expectations for and around student expression, presenting the materials in an accessible way, and supporting teachers in engaging students in three-dimensional learning—the integration of core ideas, cross-cutting concepts, and science and engineering practices. 

"We're glad the WestEd reviewers picked up on aspects of the curriculum teachers around the country love too," said Pam Goodner , Great Minds chief academic officer for science. "I talk to educators all the time who say that PhD Science is helping their students meet targeted learning goals, sparking wonder, and building knowledge about how the scientific world works." 

For example, Missy Wooley , STEM Center director of Lincoln Parish Schools in Louisiana , has described teaching with PhD Science this way: "The learning is phenomenon based, discussion heavy, and hands on."  

The WestEd review team used the EQuIP Rubric for Science , designed to provide feedback for continuous improvement. This isn't the first strong evaluation of PhD Science . Last year, the Louisiana Department of Education gave the curriculum a Tier 1 rating, the highest possible.  

No other science curriculum has to date earned equally high marks from WestEd for its kindergarten materials. 

About Great Minds: Great Minds PBC is a public benefit corporation and subsidiary of Great Minds, a nonprofit organization. Teachers and content experts write Great Minds curricula, applying their experience to create materials that resonate with students, teachers, and families. Great Minds curricula currently include PhD Science ® ,   Eureka Math 2 , Eureka Math,    Wit & Wisdom ®  (English language arts), and Geodes ®  books for emerging readers developed in cooperation with the Fundations ® foundational reading program from Wilson Language Training.  

Contact: Nancy Zuckerbrod [email protected] (301) 204-9391  

SOURCE Great Minds PBC

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Kindergarten: Great Minds: Pushes and Pulls

Great Minds® began as a small group of K–12 advocates with a passion for knowledge and has grown into teams of hundreds of teacher–writers on a mission to elevate education in every classroom. Their teams include former teachers and content experts who apply their experience to create knowledge-building, high-quality curricula for math, English language arts, and science.

The Great Minds team created  PhD Science ® to appeal to students’ curiosity about their world. By grounding deep science content in compelling, knowledge-rich phenomena and engaging experiences,  PhD Science  inspires students to wonder about the world and empowers them to make sense of it.

Science Discipline: Physical Science, Engineering

Length: Unit

Year Reviewed: 2022

How do tugboats maneuver massive ships through crowded harbors? This phenomenon inspires an exploration of forces and interactions. Students use a variety of models, from balls and toy cars to wooden block boats, to investigate the effects of stronger and weaker pushes and pulls.  They determine that pushes and pulls can cause objects to start moving, change speed, turn, or stop. Students then draw on their new knowledge to explore how to prevent a tugboat from bouncing too far from its dock. They design, test, and improve a dock cushion to do the job.

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Great Minds: Pushes and Pulls

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PhD Science Pacing

Pacing guides.

These guides present lesson objectives and activities by concept and multiple pacing options to allow teachers to maximize instructional time while remaining responsive to the needs of their students. Choose one or more options for each lesson.

Pacing options do not omit parts of lessons.

Pacing Guides are available by module in the Teacher Resource Pack (TRP) which you can access from the in Sync platform at digital.greatminds.org. Print-only customers or those who access free resources at greatminds.org can also access the TRP from the greatminds.org dashboard.

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Wonder, Investigate, Know

PhD Science TEKS Edition

In 2020, the Texas Education Agency partnered with   Great Minds ®   to develop high-quality materials for Grades K—5 as an open educational resource. PhD Science ®  TEKS Edition   and   PhD Science in Sync TEKS Edition   are fully aligned to TEKS standards and are free to Texas educators as a part of this initiative.

Since then our phenomenon-based program has helped schools across the state attain remarkable gains in student achievement and engagement. Read below to learn more about our print, digital, and support resources created specifically for Texas.

PHD SCIENCE TEKS EDITION RESOURCES

Free Resources to Support Your Usage of PhD Science  TEKS Edition

Access our one–stop shop for all things PhD Science  TEKS Edition . This page is loaded with resources and information that will help teachers unlock the greatness in every child.

Everything Needed to  Teach  and  Do  Science

PhD Science TEKS Edition  includes print, digital, and hands-on materials kits designed to spark student curiosity and provide teachers with high-quality instructional materials to lead every science lesson with confidence.

ON YOUR COMPUTER

A Teacher Edition for three module topics covered in a school year includes all lessons and teacher support items .

Facilitation slides are available through PhD Science TEKS Edition Projected for each day’s lesson.

Formative and summative assessments are embedded in every module.

PhD Science TEKS Edition in Sync®  offers video lessons and assignments for continuous learning so students can build knowledge if they—or the teacher—have to take time away from class.

IN YOUR CLASSROOM

The   Science Logbook   is where students will synthesize the information and reflect on what they’re learning.

Hands-on materials kit s   include most of the materials needed to conduct the investigations in each module.

Knowledge Deck™   cards help Levels K–2 students build knowledge on the module topic with engaging images and informational text.

Family Tip Sheets   provide caregivers with guidance on how to best   support their scientists at home.

Request Digital Access

Follow the instructions below to request digital access to our TEKS-aligned instructional materials. These digital resources are available for free to all residents of Texas. 

Click the button below if you are a parent or caregiver and would like read-only access to  PhD Science TEKS Edition .

Click the button below if you are an educator who would like to preview or use  PhD Science TEKS Edition . 

*Please note: if you are an educator whose school or district is already implementing PhD Science TEKS Edition you can skip this step and log in to digital.greatminds.org with your district credentials.

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Please submit the form below if you are a school or district leader who wants to preview or use PhD Science TEKS Edition .

*If you have already made a print purchase of materials you can skip this step. Your Great Minds Account Solutions Manager will be reaching out to set up digital access following the submission of your order.

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40 Easy Kindergarten Science Experiments for Hands-On Learning

Every day brings a new discovery!

Every day is chock-full of new discoveries when you are a kindergartner! These hands-on kindergarten science experiments and activities take advantage of kids’ boundless curiosity. They’ll learn about physics, biology, chemistry, and more basic science concepts, gearing them up to become lifelong learners.

To make things even easier, we’ve rated every one of these kindergarten science experiments based on difficulty and materials:

Difficulty:

• Easy: Low or no-prep experiments you can do pretty much anytime
• Medium: These take a little more setup or a longer time to complete
• Advanced: Experiments like these take a fairly big commitment of time or effort
• Basic: Simple items you probably already have around the house
• Medium: Items that you might not already have but are easy to get your hands on
• Advanced: These require specialized or more expensive supplies to complete

Food Science Experiments for Kindergarten

Water science experiments for kindergarten, more kindergarten science experiments.

What better way to dive into the world of science than to play with your food? These food science experiments for kindergartners are sure to grab their interest.

Use apples to learn what science is all about

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Basic

This apple investigation is a great way to start. It encourages kids to examine an apple using a variety of techniques to learn its properties. Get a free printable worksheet for this activity at the link.

Learn more: Apple Investigation at Preschool Play & Learn

Eat your way through soil layers

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Medium

Layer a variety of foods to represent the soil layers, from bedrock on up. If candy doesn’t fit your school’s nutritional guidelines, use fruits, yogurt, granola, and other healthy options. Either way, the results are scrumptious!

Learn more: Edible Soil Layers at Super Teacher Blog

Dehydrate your own raisins

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Easy

Have students dry grapes in the sun over a period of days to see them turn into raisins. Then talk about the process of dehydration as a method of preserving food.

Learn more: Homemade Raisins at Learn Play Imagine

Cook up edible glass

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Basic

Just like real glass, this edible glass is made from tiny opaque grains, but in this case from sugar instead of sand. Cooked and then cooled, it becomes what’s known as an “amorphous solid.” So cool!

Learn more: Edible Glass at Go Science Kids

Paint with salt

OK, little learners probably won’t remember the word “hygroscopic,” but they’ll enjoy watching the salt absorb and transfer colors in this neat kindergarten science experiment.

Learn more: Salt Painting at A Dab of Glue Will Do

Play with “magic” milk

Sometimes science seems like magic! In this case, dish soap breaks down milk fats and causes a colorful swirling reaction that will mesmerize little learners.

Learn more: Magic Milk Experiment (With Free Printable Student Recording Sheet)

Explore buoyancy with oranges

Expand your exploration of buoyancy with this cool demo. Kids will be surprised to learn that even though an orange feels heavy, it floats. That is, until you peel off the skin!

Learn more: Orange Buoyancy at Playdough to Plato

Bounce popcorn with sound waves

Sound may be invisible to the naked eye, but you can see the waves in action with this demo. The plastic wrap–covered bowl is the perfect stand-in for an eardrum.

Learn more: Popcorn Sound Waves at Premeditated Leftovers

Build a Three Little Pigs STEM house

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Medium

Can your little engineers create a house that protects a little piggie from the Big Bad Wolf? Try this kindergarten STEM challenge and find out!

Learn more: Three Little Pigs STEM Challenge at Sweet Sounds of Kindergarten

Make egg geodes

Engage your students in the steps of the scientific method to create these stunning lab-grown geodes. Compare the results using sea salt, kosher salt, and borax.

Learn more: Egg Geodes at TinkerLab

Water play is a kindergarten favorite, so use it to engage them in these projects and activities. They make science for kindergarten students to much fun!

Change the color of flowers

This is one of those classic kindergarten science activities everyone should try at least once. Learn how flowers “drink” water using capillary action, and create beautiful blooms while you’re at it!

Learn more: Capillary Action at Fun Learning for Kids

Assemble a lava lamp

Help your students make their very own lava lamp using simple household ingredients. Then personalize the lamps by adding a couple of drops of food coloring to each bottle.

Create a tower of instant ice

Place a water bottle in the freezer for a couple of hours, but don’t let it freeze all the way through. Then, pour some of the water onto a couple of ice cubes perched on top of a ceramic bowl and watch a tower of ice form.

Learn more: Instant Ice at Only Passionate Curiosity

Watch colored water walk

Fill three small jars with red, yellow, and blue food coloring and some water. Then place empty jars in between each. Fold paper towel strips and place them in the jars as shown. Kids will be amazed as the paper towels pull the water from full jars to empty ones, mixing and creating new colors!

Learn more: Walking Water at Messy Little Monster

Create a tornado in a jar

As you fill in the weather during daily calendar time, you might have a chance to talk about severe storms and tornadoes. Show your students how twisters form with this classic tornado jar experiment.

Learn more: Tornado in a Jar at One Little Project

Suspend water inside a jar

Lots of kindergarten science activities involve water, which is terrific because kids love to play in it! In this one, show your students how air pressure keeps water in a jar, even when it’s upside down.

Learn more: Water Pressure Experiment at A Mothership Down

See popcorn kernels dance

Here’s an activity that always feels a bit like magic. Drop an Alka-Seltzer tablet into a glass of water with popcorn kernels, and watch as the bubbles cling to the kernels and make them rise and fall. So cool!

Learn more: Dancing Popcorn Experiment (With Free Student Printable Recording Sheet)

Find out what sinks and what floats

Kids learn about the property of buoyancy and get some practice making predictions and recording the results with this easy experiment. All you need is a container of water to get started.

Learn more: Sink or Float? at Buggy and Buddy

Make it rain with shaving cream

Here’s another neat weather-related science experiment. Make shaving cream “clouds” on top of the water, then drop food coloring in to watch it “rain.”

Learn more: Shaving Cream Clouds at One Little Project

Bend light with water

Light refraction produces some incredible results. Your students will think it’s magic when the arrow on the paper changes direction … until you explain that it’s all due to the way water bends the light.

Learn more: Light Water Play at Go Science Girls

We’ve got even more ideas about teaching science to kindergarten students here, from plant and dirt science to static electricity and more.

Craft some recycled paper

Teach your kindergartners how to transform something old into something new. Use scrap paper, old newspapers, and magazine pages to create beautiful handcrafted paper.

Learn more: Homemade Paper at The Craftaholic Witch

Make their hair stand on end

Kids love to play with balloons! Find out all about the properties of static electricity with these three fun and super-easy balloon experiments. ( Get more fun balloon experiments here. )

Create a model of the human spine

Kindergarten science students love to learn through play. Make this simple egg carton spine model to encourage your students’ interest in the human body and how it works.

Learn more: Spine Model at Mombrite

Inflate a balloon without blowing into it

Teach your students the magic of chemical reactions using a plastic bottle, vinegar, and baking soda to inflate a balloon. This classic experiment is a wonderful way to explore science for kindergarten kids.

Learn more: Balloon Experiments

Move a paper butterfly’s wings with static electricity

Part art project, part science lesson, all fun! Kids make tissue paper butterflies, then use the static electricity from a balloon to flap the wings.

Learn more: Static Electricity Butterfly at I Heart Crafty Things

Race balloon rockets

Introduce little ones to the laws of motion with easy-to-make balloon rockets. When the air shoots out one end, the balloons will sail off in the other direction. Whee!

Learn more: Balloon Rockets at Hands On Teaching Ideas

Lift a bag with balloons

You’ll need helium balloons for this one, and kids are gonna love it. Ask them to guess (hypothesize) how many balloons it will take to lift various items in a bag attached to the strings.

Learn more: Helium Balloon Experiment at Mess for Less

Discover how plants breathe

Kids might be surprised when you tell them that trees breathe. This kindergarten science experiment will help prove it’s true.

Learn more: Leaf Transpiration at KC Edventures With Kids

Learn how germs spread

There’s never been a better time to add a handwashing experiment to your list of kindergarten science activities. Use glitter as a stand-in for germs, and learn how important washing your hands with soap really is.

Explore the properties of mystery items

Mystery bags are always a hit with kids. Tuck a variety of objects inside, then encourage kids to feel, shake, smell, and explore as they try to determine what the items are without looking.

Learn more: Mystery Bags at Raising Lifelong Learners

Play with fizzing ice cubes

While kinders may not entirely understand the concept of acid-base reactions, they’ll still get a kick out of spraying these baking soda ice cubes with lemon juice and watching them fizz away!

Learn more: Fizzing Ice at The Play-Based Mom

Sniff scented sensory bottles

Here’s another way to engage the senses. Drop essential oils onto cotton balls, then seal them inside spice bottles . Kids sniff the bottles and try to identify the smell.

Learn more: Scent Jars at Share and Remember

Play with magnets

Magnet play is one of our favorite kindergarten science activities. Place a variety of items into small bottles, and ask kids which ones they think will be attracted to the magnets. The answers may surprise them!

Learn more: Magnet Jars at Left Brain Craft Brain

Waterproof a boot

This experiment lets kindergartners try their hand at “waterproofing” a boot with a variety of materials. They use what they already know to predict which materials will protect the paper boot from water, then experiment to see if they’re right.

Learn more: Waterproof a Boot at Science Sparks

Dig into some soil science

Ready to get your hands in the dirt? Scoop up some soil and examine it more closely, looking for rocks, seeds, worms, and other items.

Learn more: Dirt Science at Go Science Kids

Mix up some oobleck

Perhaps no book leads so perfectly into a science lesson as Dr. Seuss’s Bartholomew and the Oobleck . Just what is oobleck? It’s a non-Newtonian fluid that looks like a liquid but takes on the properties of a solid when squeezed. Weird, messy … and so much fun!

Learn more: Oobleck at ABCs of Literacy

Grow crystal letters

No list of kindergarten science activities would be complete without a crystal project! Use pipe cleaners to make the letters of the alphabet (numbers are good too), then grow crystals on them using a supersaturated solution.

Learn more: Crystallized Letters at Gift of Curiosity

Blow up your fingerprints

You don’t need a microscope to look at fingerprints up close! Instead, have each student make a print on a balloon, then blow it up to see the whorls and ridges in detail.

Learn more: Balloon Fingerprints at The Natural Homeschool

Play a marble maze game

Tell kids they’re going to move a marble without actually touching it, and watch their eyes widen in surprise! They’ll have fun drawing mazes to guide a metal marble through with a magnet from underneath.

Learn more: Magnet Marble Maze at Go Science Girls

Germinate a seed

There’s something about seeing a seed develop roots and shoots with your very eyes that’s just so incredible. Sprout bean seeds in paper towels inside a glass jar to give it a try.

Learn more: Germinate a Seed at How Wee Learn

Keep the learning going with these Kindergarten Math Games That Make Numbers Fun From Day One .

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What Science Is Taught In Kindergarten?

Written by Dan

Last updated March 5, 2024

Kindergarten is a vital step in a child’s education, teaching them basic skills that will help them succeed throughout life.

With the ever-changing world of modern science, it can be difficult to keep up with what your junior scholar should know when they enter their first day of school.

From potential health benefits for learning outside to the basics of ecology and engineering – you’ll want to stay abreast of what new scientific concepts are taught during this critical time in development.

Now more than ever, kids need every advantage they can get from starting on the right foot so keep reading our post to see exactly what science is taught in kindergarten!

Related : For more, check out our article on  What Language Arts Are Taught In Kindergarten.

Table of Contents

Overview Of The Science Standards In Kindergarten

Kindergarten is a critical stage for children to develop a strong foundation in scientific concepts and skills. The science standards in kindergarten are designed to nurture curiosity, promote inquiry, and foster a love for learning about the natural world.

These standards encompass various scientific domains, including physical and life sciences, earth and space sciences, engineering and technology.

This table provides an overview of the foundational science topics covered in kindergarten, paired with examples of typical classroom activities that can be included in your article.

Exploring the Five Domains of Science in Kindergarten Classrooms

Kindergarten is a crucial time for children to build a strong scientific knowledge and skills foundation.

By exploring the five domains of science, educators can create engaging and interactive experiences that foster curiosity and a love for learning. These five domains are:

a. Physical Science

Physical science activities in kindergarten classrooms focus on introducing students to the properties of matter and the basic principles of motion. Hands-on experiences and experiments may include:

• Sorting and classifying objects based on their properties (e.g., size, shape, color, texture)
• Investigating how materials can change when heated or cooled (e.g., melting ice, evaporation)
• Exploring the concept of force and motion through activities such as rolling balls, sliding objects, and observing magnets

b. Life Science

Life science in kindergarten helps students develop an understanding of living organisms and their environments. Activities and lessons in this domain may involve:

• Observing and caring for classroom plants and animals to learn about their needs and life cycles
• Comparing and contrasting different types of living organisms (e.g., mammals, insects, plants)
• Investigating local habitats and ecosystems through nature walks or field trips

c. Earth and Space Science

In this domain, students begin to explore the wonders of our planet and its place in the universe. Earth and space science activities may include:

• Observing and recording weather patterns and discussing their effects on living organisms
• Learning about the water cycle through hands-on experiments and demonstrations
• Investigating the concept of day and night, as well as seasonal changes, using models and real-world observations

d. Engineering and Technology

Engineering and technology activities in kindergarten encourage students to think critically and apply their scientific knowledge to solve problems. Some examples of activities in this domain are:

• Designing and building simple structures using various materials (e.g., blocks, cardboard, straws)
• Participating in collaborative problem-solving challenges, such as creating a device to move objects or protect an egg from breaking
• Discuss technology’s role in daily life and explore age-appropriate digital tools

e. Scientific Inquiry

Scientific inquiry is the process by which students develop their understanding of scientific concepts through questioning, investigating, and communicating their findings. In kindergarten, educators can foster scientific inquiry by:

• Encouraging students to ask questions and make observations about the world around them
• Providing opportunities for hands-on investigations and experiments
• Guiding students in collecting and analyzing data, drawing conclusions, and sharing their discoveries with peers

By incorporating these five domains of science into kindergarten classrooms, teachers can create a comprehensive and engaging curriculum that lays the groundwork for future scientific learning and exploration.

Benefits of Teaching Science to Young Learners in Kindergarten

Introducing science to young learners in kindergarten has numerous benefits that can positively impact their academic, social, and emotional development.

Children can build a strong foundation for future learning and develop essential life skills by engaging in hands-on activities and exploring scientific concepts.

Some of the key benefits of teaching science to young learners in kindergarten include:

1. Fostering Curiosity and Wonder

Science education encourages children to ask questions, observe, and explore the world. This fosters a sense of curiosity and wonder, which is essential for lifelong learning and intellectual growth.

2. Developing Critical Thinking Skills

Through scientific inquiry, children learn to think critically and analytically. They learn to gather information, evaluate evidence, and draw conclusions based on their observations and experiences.

These skills are crucial for success in science and transferable to other academic subjects and real-life situations.

3. Building Problem-Solving Abilities

Science education often involves hands-on activities and experiments that require students to apply their knowledge and skills to solve problems.

This helps children develop resilience, creativity, and flexibility when faced with challenges, setting them up for success in school and beyond.

4. Enhancing Communication Skills

As young learners engage in scientific exploration, they must express their ideas, observations, and findings.

This helps them practice and improve their communication skills, including listening, speaking, reading, and writing, which are essential for academic success and social interactions.

5. Promoting Collaboration and Teamwork

Many science activities require students to collaborate, share resources, and exchange ideas. This promotes collaboration and teamwork, teaching children to cooperate, negotiate, and respect differing perspectives.

6. Encouraging Environmental Awareness

Teaching science to young learners helps them develop an understanding of the natural world and the importance of environmental stewardship.

They learn about ecosystems, conservation, and the impact of human activities on the planet, fostering a sense of responsibility and respect for the environment.

7. Strengthening Fine Motor Skills

Hands-on science activities often involve manipulating objects, using tools, and engaging in precise movements.

This helps young learners develop fine motor skills essential for writing, drawing, and other daily tasks.

8. Boosting Self-Confidence

As children engage in scientific exploration, they experience success and failure, learn from their mistakes, and build resilience.

This process helps them gain self-confidence and believe in their abilities to tackle challenges and achieve their goals.

Teaching science to young kindergarten learners offers numerous benefits beyond academic achievement.

By fostering curiosity, critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, collaboration, environmental awareness, and self-confidence, science education sets the stage for a lifetime of learning and personal growth.

Tips for Engaging Students in Scientific Exploration in Kindergarten

Kindergarten is an ideal time to introduce young learners to the fascinating world of science. Engaging students in scientific exploration at this age helps build a strong foundation for future learning and fosters a love for discovery.

Here are some tips for making science fun , interactive, and meaningful for kindergarten students:

1. Encourage Curiosity and Questioning

Create a classroom environment where curiosity is valued, and questions are welcomed. Please encourage students to ask questions, observe, and share their ideas.

This helps develop their critical thinking skills and promotes a sense of ownership in their learning process.

2. Use Hands-On Activities and Experiments

Young learners benefit from hands-on experiences that allow them to explore scientific concepts through active participation—design activities and experiments that involve manipulating materials, using tools, and observing phenomena firsthand.

This helps students better understand the concepts and improves their fine motor skills.

3. Incorporate Real-World Examples and Connections

Make science relevant by connecting concepts to students’ everyday lives and experiences.

Use real-world examples and local resources, such as nature walks or field trips, to help students see the practical applications of science and its impact on their surroundings.

4. Foster Collaboration and Teamwork

Encourage students to work together on science activities, projects, and investigations.

This promotes collaboration, teamwork, and communication skills, which are essential for their social and academic development.

5. Utilize Age-Appropriate Technology

Incorporate age-appropriate digital tools and technology into your science curriculum to enhance learning and engage students.

This may include educational apps, interactive websites, or multimedia resources complementing hands-on activities and experiments.

6. Differentiate Instruction

Recognize that each student has unique strengths, interests, and learning styles.

Differentiate your instruction to meet the diverse needs of your students and provide opportunities for them to explore science topics in personally meaningful and engaging ways.

7. Scaffold Learning Experiences

Break down complex concepts into smaller, manageable steps, and provide guidance and support as needed.

This helps students build their understanding incrementally and gain confidence in grasping more challenging ideas.

8. Celebrate Successes and Learn from Failures

Acknowledge students’ achievements and progress in scientific exploration, and encourage them to learn from their mistakes.

This helps build resilience, self-confidence, and a growth mindset towards learning.

9. Integrate Science Across the Curriculum

Incorporate scientific concepts and skills into other subjects, such as literacy, math, art, and social studies.

This helps students see the connections between disciplines and reinforces their understanding of science.

10. Create a Science-Rich Classroom Environment

Design your classroom space to reflect the importance of science and stimulate curiosity.

Display student work, create interactive learning centers, and provide various materials and resources related to scientific exploration.

Recommended Resources for Parents and Teachers

Numerous resources are available to support science education for kindergarten students at home and in the classroom.

These resources can help parents and teachers engage young learners in scientific exploration, build foundational skills, and foster a love for learning. Here are some recommended resources to consider:

1. PBS KIDS

PBS KIDS offers a variety of educational games, videos, and activities related to science and other subjects. The website features popular characters from PBS children’s shows, making learning fun and engaging for young learners.

2. National Geographic Kids

National Geographic Kids provides a wealth of information, videos, games, and activities related to animals, nature, and science. Their resources help young learners develop an understanding of the natural world and inspire a sense of wonder and curiosity.

3. Mystery Science

Mystery Science offers hands-on science lessons and activities designed for elementary students. Their resources include video lessons, printable materials, and step-by-step instructions for conducting experiments and investigations at home or in the classroom.

4. Scholastic’s Study Jams

Scholastic’s Study Jams is an online resource that offers interactive lessons and quizzes on various science topics, including plants, animals, matter, and space. The engaging multimedia content helps reinforce scientific concepts and encourages active learning .

5. BrainPOP Jr.

BrainPOP Jr. is a subscription-based service that provides animated educational videos, quizzes, and activities on various subjects, including science. The age-appropriate content engages young learners and supports their understanding of complex concepts.

6. Science Buddies

Science Buddies is an online resource that offers a variety of science project ideas, experiments, and activities for students of all ages. Their resources are designed to promote hands-on learning and scientific inquiry at home or in the classroom.

7. DKfindout!

DKfindout! is an online encyclopedia that covers a wide range of topics, including science, geography, history, and more. The visually appealing and age-appropriate content helps young learners explore scientific concepts through images, videos, and quizzes.

8. Steve Spangler Science

Steve Spangler Science offers a collection of science experiments, demonstrations, and activities to engage young learners. Their resources include step-by-step instructions, videos, and explanations to help parents and teachers conduct experiments safely and effectively.

9. YouTube Channels

There are numerous YouTube channels dedicated to science education for young learners. Some popular channels include SciShow Kids , The Dr. Binocs Show , and National Geographic Kids . These channels feature engaging videos that cover a wide array of scientific topics and concepts.

10. Local Resources

Don’t forget to explore local resources, such as libraries, museums, nature centers, and science centers. These institutions often offer educational materials, workshops, and programs specifically designed for young learners.

By utilizing these recommended resources, parents and teachers can provide kindergarten students with engaging and educational experiences that support their scientific exploration and learning at home and in the classroom.

As parents and teachers, we must keep exploring ways to make science education engaging and stimulating for our learners.

If you found this article engaging, look around our blog for more helpful tips and resources for teaching kindergarteners scientific concepts in exciting and creative ways.

Please read our other articles so that you can continue educating yourself about the options available to support your child’s science education!

1. Why is it important to teach science in kindergarten?

Teaching science in kindergarten helps to develop children’s curiosity, critical thinking skills, and problem-solving abilities. It also introduces them to the basics of scientific concepts and encourages a love for learning at an early age.

2. What kind of science topics are appropriate for kindergarten students?

Kindergarten science topics should be age-appropriate and engaging. Some examples include exploring the five senses, understanding the properties of solids, liquids, and gases, learning about plants and animals, and studying weather patterns.

3. How can I make science lessons fun and engaging for kindergarten students?

You can make science lessons fun by incorporating hands-on activities, experiments, and games that allow children to explore and learn through play. Visuals, storytelling, and exciting demonstrations can also enhance the learning experience. Additionally, providing students with online resources such as videos, interactive websites, and educational apps can help them better understand scientific concepts.

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About The Author

I'm Dan Higgins, one of the faces behind The Teaching Couple. With 15 years in the education sector and a decade as a teacher, I've witnessed the highs and lows of school life. Over the years, my passion for supporting fellow teachers and making school more bearable has grown. The Teaching Couple is my platform to share strategies, tips, and insights from my journey. Together, we can shape a better school experience for all.

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