Researchers are beginning to examine more closely science in pre-kindergarten. They are looking at how children can increase their knowledge and experiences around science. The Children’s Learning Institute at the University of Texas, under the direction of Dr. Susan H. Landry, developed a pre-school science kit called discover! Science™. The kit provides the teacher with ready and easy to use science activities that are fun, developmentally appropriate, and meaningful. Children participate in simple investigations based on scientific principles that help them develop skills for asking questions, gathering information, communicating, predicting and finding conclusions, all the while building literacy and language skills.

discover! Science™ Activities address key science skills that include:

1. Child will use their five senses for observing and hands on experiences
2. Child will have opportunities to answer questions around science experiments
3. Child will be introduced to simple science tools and materials for investigating scientific principles
4. Child will compare and analyze same and different objects
5. Child will develop scientific centered vocabulary
6. Child will engage in scientific conversation with peers and teachers
7. Child enthusiasm for scientific method will be enhanced
8. Child will make a connection with nonfiction literature, writing, and basic math concepts
9. Child will learn how to use the scientific process
10. Child will use science journals to demonstrate understanding of science topics while also making a writing connection

The discover! Science™ kit is based on sound early childhood best practices. When children are provided with hands-on science activities, they begin to think about science in a more positive and meaningful way. They also become more comfortable and excited with learning about science. The teacher guides the children through the scientific process while at the same time, assisting children as they gather information, asking questions, carrying out procedures, developing a scientific vocabulary, and analyzing conclusions.

The discover! Science™ kit activities are planned around a carefully selected non-fiction children’s book and allow children to be introduced to the scientific method used in scientific investigations. Children will learn a about science and being scientists while exploring stories, new ideas, and using the tools of science!

This science kit supports many common early childhood themes, pre-kindergarten guidelines and Head Start Outcomes.