Giving young children time and space to explore both the natural and man-made world around them builds on their innate curiosity, knowledge and learning. But practitioners can take this one step further by supporting them to observe objects closely using resources such as magnifying glasses, and providing them with the knowledge that what they are doing is, actually, scientific.
Development Matters (2020) highlights early science and the need to provide children with opportunities to observe, for example:
Dr Julian Grenier, head teacher of Sheringham Nursery School and Children’s Centre, East London, led on the revised guidance and says that when it comes to early science, ‘Sometimes, we emphasise the “nature studies” aspect over all else. But Development Matters tries to provide a balance between early chemistry – mixing things together and observing changes, like cooking; early physics – using magnets, exploring forces through floating and sinking; and early biology – observing plants and living things, growing your own beans.’
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here