Get Kids Interested in Science

Scientific literacy is needed to navigate our everyday lives. Daily interaction after school and on weekends is the perfect time for parents to engage their children in learning about science. Learning Resources, a manufacturer of hands-on educational products for the classroom and home, offers some simple tips for instilling an interest in science.

"Science knowledge is cumulative, and is built on what we already know," says Carl Benoit, editorial director at Learning Resources and a former science teacher. "For this reason, it's important that children start building their science background knowledge early, and parents can help by encouraging questions and helping their children appreciate the value of science."

Benoit offers these suggestions:

* One of the best things parents can do to get their kids interested in science is to demonstrate their own interest and enthusiasm in science. Children learn by example.      

* Engage a child's natural curiosity and use their questions about the world around them as learning experiences. Ask them what they think the answer might be, or suggest you try to find the answer together.

* Integrate science lessons into play time. For example, play an educational game like Caught in the Web Insect Game from Learning Resources that teaches kids about insects and their habitats. Outdoor play can include finding and identifying insects.

* Hands-on science can help children think critically and gain confidence in their own ability to solve problems. Young children, especially, like to touch, manipulate and change things. For example, while helping you cook they can measure and you can discuss measurement. Ask them questions and have them think it through.  

* Children can learn science and increase their understanding of scientific ideas by investigating and experimenting. Children can do all sorts of science activities with items found in nature or the household.

For more tips on helping your children become successful science students and scientific thinkers, visit www.LearningResources.com/sciencetips.

Learning Resources is a leading manufacturer of innovative, hands-on educational materials for classrooms and of learning toys for the home. For more than 20 years, the company has been a trusted source for educators and parents for quality, award-winning educational products in language, math, science and early childhood. Headquartered in Vernon Hills, Ill., Learning Resources markets and distributes its products in over 80 countries around the globe.

For more information about Learning Resources, visit www.LearningResources.com.

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