Article Link: http://exchangepress.com/article/kids-and-science-magic-in-the-mix/5006751/
A valid introduction of science in the early childhood classroom can enliven children's curiosity and their drive to learn from observation, invention, and discovery for the rest of their lives. But this seldom happens, because it requires a process of education shot through with magic. Here's a look at the magic and some ways to achieve it.One autumn morning in our small, rural preschool here on the Maine Coast, Nina brought in a cardboard carton containing a short milkweed stem and leaves.
"Look what I found! A chrysalis! It's very deckilate." And so began a science experience, totally unplanned.
Nina, usually awkward and shy, took charge. I was delighted: instead of hanger-on she now became our expert. She advised a single layer of cheesecloth be placed across the top of the box. We complied. The gauze deterred probing fingers, allowed sufficient air and light to reach her specimen, and we could see through its airy mesh with ease. The monarch chrysalis, leaf green and flecked with gold, was captivating.
Two children, a parent in tow, went to our village library and found a picture book of the monarch butterfly's life cycle. I ...