The Benefits of Early Years Science Education

Science, directly and indirectly, influences all aspects of everyday life. From the food we eat to the way we get around, science is everywhere. Once you begin to see all the opportunities to learn, the relationship between science and critical-thinking skills become apparent. Beginning when children are very young, science helps shape their development. As they learn to ask questions, make predictions, observe, test, and then communicate their findings, they are developing critical science skills.

Children are programmed to explore and experiment right from the start, even as babies. On the other hand, research suggests that by the age of 7, most children have developed either a positive or negative attitude towards science education that will remain entrenched. So by tapping into their natural predispositions early on, during this key developmental phase, we can nurture and establish a positive approach to science education that will stay with them into the future.

Science education activities provide children with opportunities to develop and practice many different skills and attributes. These include communication skills, collaborative skills, team working and perseverance, as well as analytical, reasoning and problem-solving skills. Help them expand their vocabulary by using scientific terms that are appropriate for their age group. Encourage them to extend and embed their learning through related literacy, numeracy and creative activities.

Why is science education important for kids?

1. Science is a part of our daily life. Everything we do and deal with in life is science from cooking, playing ball, growing a garden, and understanding how technologies work to watching a rain storm.
2. Science education teaches children more than just the basics of biology, physics, and chemistry.
3. Science teaches children to make observations, collect information, and to use logical thinking to draw a conclusion. These skills are important for every part of our lives.
4. Science education provides children an understanding of how things work, such as earthquake movement, weather patterns, chemical reactions, and nutritional needs, which will help them to safe, healthy environments for future generations.
5. Children are naturally curious. Science education fuels that curiosity and provides children with valuable ideas, skills, and potential future career choices.
6. Science education gives children the opportunity to experiment and work in teams. These activities enhance communication, research, reporting, and collaboration skills.
7. Children who have a basic understanding of science are more receptive to new technologies and ideas in the future that can stimulate research, development, and businesses.
8. Children with a basic understanding of rocks and minerals are able to translate that knowledge to a wide variety of activities and potential careers such as gardening, groundwater recovery, pollution control, and clean-up, engineering, environmental research, oil and gas exploration and recovery, road construction, mining, and energy production.
9. Science helps children develop key life skills, including an ability to communicate, remain organized and focused, and even form their own opinions based on observation. Science also helps children develop their senses and overall awareness.
10. Children are hands-on learners, and the world around them provides so many natural opportunities. That is why you should never underestimate the power of learning through play. Interacting with their environment will support their intellectual development.
11. Children are primed for learning, and what they learn while they’re young can impact their interests later in life. Studies have shown that students begin to develop an interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) during the elementary years. Having an interest and knowledge in these subject areas provides future career opportunities.
12. Scientists are an important part of the future of our world. Without them, we would not be able to predict the weather or earthquakes, understand global warming, cure illnesses and take care of the sick, or have many of the products that enhance our lifestyles today.