It's important to teach children basic reading, writing, and math skills. Early childhood educators should also focus on science.
Exploration can take place right inside the classroom, or as part of outdoor play. When children learn more about the world around them, they build new foundations. This helps them to learn more complex scientific processes as they progress in school.
The Playground and Physics: The playground contains seesaws, slides, and swings. This helps children learn the concepts of physics. The seesaw helps children to learn about the principle of balance. Teachers can use the slide to instruct students about the importance of gravity. Balance different-weighted items on a seesaw to show the effect of weight and mass on gravity.
The Fish Tank and Biology: Science learning also happens inside your classroom. Does your classroom have pets? You're already well on your way to teaching students about basic biology. Through looking after animals—whether rabbits, guinea pigs, fish or earthworms—children learn that all organisms need care. This includes the right living conditions and regular feeding. Make sure you offer opportunities for children to document animals' growth and habits. Remember to check with your state's rules and regulations before getting a classroom pet.
Critical Thinking with Questions and Research: Science and reading are both about asking questions and then looking for solutions. Encourage students to become critical thinkers by asking them these types of queries. For instance, if one of them tells you about a rainbow she saw, ask "What do you think caused the rainbow?" and then search out the answer together. This will help create a pattern that will equip your students well for studying STEAM subjects.
Apply New Skills in Your Classroom (even if it's outdoors!)
Teachers inspire potential in children's reading, writing, math and science skills. ProSolutions Training offers courses that help you find and apply lessons in your classroom.
STREAM and the Great Outdoors: Reading and Writing in Nature: This course shares a multidisciplinary approach to learning. Learn ways to teach in non-traditional learning environments like the great outdoors. We discuss the differences in the S.T.E.M., S.T.E.A.M., and S.T.R.E.A.M. approaches. Learn how to teach S.T.R.E.A.M. in an outdoor environment to enhance learning for young children.