Interacting with science was honestly one of my fondest memories as a child. From memorizing scientific nomenclature for animal animal species, to reading fun fact magazines, to visiting petting zoos, I loved exploring the natural wonders around me. In this article, I’ll show you ways that you can expose your child to the magnificent world of science!
National Geographic Science Kits
A classic, and a must-have whenever I’d enter Target’s toy section. The massive array of telescopes, backyard science experiments, and dig-kits always grabbed my attention! I’ve grown crystals, made edible water bottles, and excavated tumbled gemstones using a pick and chisel. There’s so many affordable ways to interact with science first hand. So whether it be a special occasion or a simple love for science, definitely consider buying one.
Buy a microscope!
I remember buying my first microscope. The kit featured a light microscope, glass slides & covers, pigments for staining, and some tools. I’d try to collect whatever I could just so I could take a closer look at things I haven’t thought to notice beforehand. I took a few peeks at my hair, random bugs, leaves, tomato skin, you name it!
I highly recommending investing in a microscope to observe the world’s wonders close up! You never know what you might see. A moving paramecium? Cheek cells? Hair follicles? Whatever it may be, I promise it will be unforgettable.
Compete in a science fair
Science fairs are a MUST for budding scientists. From dioramas to demonstrations, science fairs are a wonderful way to show off your science knowledge! Once, I presented how applying a drop of soap to a bread clip can propel it to move across a body of water to demonstrate the power of surface tension — cool right?? While we were there, I saw a range of projects such as Oobleck (the non-Newtonian goopy stuff that’s solid when hit but a liquid when poured), the classic baking-soda powered volcano, and balloon cars. There’s so many things your little scientist can present to delve deeper into science. All you need is an awesome idea, tri-fold display board, some markers, pictures, glue, and experimental materials if you want to demonstrate science in real-time.
Go for a nature walk!
Take a walk with your little one around your neighborhood or at a park. See what creatures, plants, fungi, or other organisms you discover!
Pro tip: Download a plant identifier to know which plants you’re looking at, learn cool facts about them, and ways to take care of them in your own home! (It’s particularly great for recognizing if what you’re looking at happens to be Poison Ivy!)
Go to a museum or aquarium!
I’ve never met a child who hated going to a museum or aquarium. These are such unique ways to observe wildlife and historic artifacts up close, and make connections with what they see in TV and cartoons to their real-world existence. At the Turtle Back Zoo, you’ll get to see peacocks wandering around the park, or even giraffes roaming in their habitat. At an aquarium, you may even get the chance to pet a stingray or watch sea otters float!
These are only a few ways to indulge in science. But whether or not you decide to invest in a microscope or attend a science fair, always try to find ways to let your child explore their scientific interests! You can watch shows and other content (take a look at my previous post), or try some experiments at school. Science is a great thing to experience no matter what age you are. Never stop being curious!
*I was not sponsored by any companies listed in this article. I just believe that they are fun ways to interact with science!*
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