Children are naturally curious about their world. They do not take things for granted and are constantly asking “how” and “why” questions. The preschool science curriculum is based on the premise that children cannot understand a concept unless they have been given the opportunity to experiment with it. They learn through their senses. They are able to classify, sequence, describe, reach conclusions, and are very curious about solving problems. All of these abilities are what constitute a good scientist. Teachers facilitate and enhance these abilities enabling science to flourish in all parts of the curriculum. The curiosity of the child in a spontaneous situation is acknowledged and respected. Science is a part of living, and therefore is an ongoing, continuous process.

As in the other subject areas, teachers pull from a variety of sources that can include teacher idea books, magazines, theme packets, websites, and ideas presented at conferences. Community speakers are invited when appropriate, for example; the “Bug Man,” Mr. Dean our “carpenter,” and a doctor or dentist.

The science curriculum for preschool three has been divided into nine primary themes taught monthly. Activities are centered around the integrated themes of study and may include experiments such as mixing red and blue to make purple, planting a miniature “rainforest,” mixing baking soda and vinegar to simulate a volcano, care for a classroom pet, and the study of natural habitats.

When teaching a unit which is heavily science related the teacher will continue to plan language, math, and art activities, as well as cooking experiences and field trips where appropriate around that common theme. An example of activities that incorporate lessons in science, language, art, and cooking around a common theme might be to read The Hungry Caterpillar then make butterflies with coffee filters, sequence the story with pictures, hatch caterpillars from eggs and watch them grow into butterflies as a group, and make caterpillars from biscuits for snack.