How to Support Kids Learning Science and Why it Matters?

Science is often overlooked. 

Believe it or not, most parents dismiss science as no more than a classroom subject. But the truth is, science has extensive involvement in our lives more than we can ever imagine. That said, more than the school, parents must take the initiative to teach science to their kids. And the best way to teach and support kids learning science is through hands-on experience.  

We should understand that "hands-on experience" is not only about learning through practice and getting firsthand exposure to the subject. Rather, the hands-on involvement of parents in the learning process is just as important to teach kids in science.

But why does it matter?

Why Learning Science is Important?

Every time you decide to use paper over plastic bags, or the simple reason why people brush their teeth is all because of science. We might not be aware of it but science is the principal element influencing every decision we make.  

Science manifests its importance beginning in childhood. As kids observe their surroundings, ask relevant questions, act on their curiosity, and make predictions, they develop critical thinking skills. And children will carry over these principles even as they age. 

The value of learning science starts before the classroom and goes beyond it because science pulsates throughout life itself.

Therefore, kids learning science is imperative. And parents must do everything they can to teach kids science because it will benefit them as they mature.

Benefits of Kids Learning Science

Development of key life skills

Science can impart key life skills that allow children to get ahead in life. They learn essential skills that are valued when they step out of the classroom and become professionals. This includes communication skills, keen observation, making educated opinions, and critical thinking.

Encourage independent learning

A reason why kids learning science is essential is that it promotes independence. The design of the educational system is unidirectional. This means teachers provide the bulk of learning to the students. But when we nurture kids' curiosity in science, we set them up for independent learning where they seek out answers on their own.

Excellence in the classroom

Every parent desires for their kids to excel in class. With all things said above, the indirect result that kids learning science will have is the knowledge to shine in and out of the classroom. Science lessons for kids, along with other subjects, become a breeze to go through. Because learning is no longer viewed as a tedious chore, but a means to an end - a way to put every concept in perspective.

Open doors to countless opportunities

What children learn early on impacts their interests, and later, influences their careers. You can expect kids learning science to consider the vast number of career opportunities in the field. As the lifelong process of discovery never stops. Per Albert Einstein:

"The process of scientific discovery is, in effect, a continual flight from wonder."

As long as their curiosity burns. So long as the pursuit of science perpetuates, there will always be new things to discover on earth.

Here are examples of awesome job opportunities for kids learning science!

Making a positive impact

Investing in science education sets children up to make positive impacts. True, however, that taking their phone out and doing a quick internet search is easier to answer their queries. But a healthy dose of skepticism cultivated in kids learning science may bear fruits and potential scientific breakthroughs. Which also benefits everyone, even the ones that do not adhere to the field.

Tips to Support Kids Learning Science

If you are deliberate in supporting your kids learning science, then here are actionable tips you can practice!

Make a lesson out of everything 

Before you make a fuss, it's not about treating every little thing seriously. There are countless subjects in their surroundings that kids can question. Encourage this curious and explorative behavior. Model the same curiosity by asking them questions about the environment as well. 

If there are roadblocks both of you can't decipher, research and discover the answer together! One good way to encourage kids learning science is having a partner in step with them - that means you!

Explore the world

There is more to the world than meets the eye. And kids have not seen half of what it offers. A simple visit to the park or a playful afternoon in the backyard may yield many opportunities to learn. Value their every question and encourage them to share their perspective and observation. 

Whenever they ask, don't blurt out an answer immediately. Make the most out of kids learning science by letting them share educated opinions on the matter. This facilitates discussion and reels the children better towards learning through discovery.

Supplement their learnings with STEM toys

Parents might not realize it but toys are one of the pillars that make people's childhood. STEM toys are important because they convey both learning and enjoyment to children. Toys are tools that aid kids in their exploration and pursuit of answers. 

One toy you might want to consider is our portable microscope. This microscope toy empowers kids to explore the minute beauties of the earth. Plus, its lightweight and durable form-factor are perfect for kids who drop everything they hold.

Conduct science experiments together

Doing simple experiments at home helps children understand scientific concepts better. Kids learn best through practice and hands-on experience. Explaining a concept comes off easier when they can visualize the query. This is why science experiments are essential learning outlets for kids.

There are many cool experiments to do at home. Try to choose ones that are safe and use household items. Not only do home experiments help kids learn more, but it also permits bonding between you and them.  Remember to guide them throughout the process. 

Expose kids to positive media

Media has been engraved in the lives of people for countless years now. It is inevitable to prevent kids' exposure to media but you can direct their viewership towards constructive outlets. 

There is a sizeable amount of educational TV shows that children may watch. Encourage kids to watch these science resources, but keep in mind the recommended screen time for their age. Accompany them while watching to explain some concepts that might be complex for their level of understanding.

Seek out science lessons for kids online

There are numerous science resources available online that your kids may seek out. These websites are essential go-to spots for independent learning. Ducksters is one fun repository of history, biography, and science lessons for kids. 

Kids learning science need all the help they can get to support their education. Maximizing these science resources helps them understand the field better in the comfort of their homes.  

Encourage them to read science books for kids

Science books for kids do not need to be scientific in nature. Most science readings are great sources of encouragement to give kids the nudge they need to pursue science. Don't mistake science books for kids as thick journals because no kid would have the attention span for those. 

These science resources often come in literary texts with the underlying purpose to motivate kids to learn science. 

Science articles for kids that are older

Scholarly articles are like the clues that scientists study for their next scientific voyage! If you manage to cultivate the love for science in children, you may expose them to some science articles for kids. 

Stick with subject matters that tackle elementary scopes. This is so kids don't get scared away with the vast amount of information available. 

Put their personality, interests, and social habits in mind

The thing about children is that everyone is different. Each kid has their preferences and interests which might deviate from others. Nonetheless, despite the differences, instilling science in them is still necessary.

Knowing your kids' interests and personalities allows you to gauge which activities suit them better. Doing this can make kids learning science feel more engaged and excited to learn. When they learn the way they want, it improves the quality of information they receive. 

Let them be kids and have fun

Children are children. Play will always be an integral part of their system, that shapes their development. We're not here to become helicopter parents. We are here to support them in every way possible in their development.

Kids learning science are bound to feel burnt out if they fail to spend time in leisure. Encourage them to learn science and promote a science-friendly home. But don't take their childhood away from them.

Supporting Kids Learning in Science Matters!

We firmly believe that science must be inculcated in the hearts of every child. A clear grasp of scientific concepts and principles sets kids up for a future of success and positive impact. As Bill Nye the Science Guy puts it:

"Science is the key to the future, and if you don't believe in science, then you're holding everybody back."

TheSTEMKids can help support your kids learning science through our collection of science gadgets and peripherals. 

Our portable microscope is still up for grabs today. Get it and enjoy 15% OFF your purchases along with FREE DELIVERY from us to you!