Teaching Kids Science: 5 Strategies for Parents

Science is an integral part of our daily lives, whether we know it or not. It’s implemented in everything--our personal biology, the make-up of nature around us, the weather patterns, etc. Therefore, it is critical that your child builds a strong foundation in understanding science.

Sometimes, it can feel like pulling teeth trying to get your child interested in science. How can you as a parent best support them in their intellectual development? Here are some ideas on how you can integrate learning science with your child into your daily lives.

Talk About It At Dinnertime

Studies show that talking with your kids at the dinner table reinforces good habits, creates higher levels of learning, and boosts vocabulary. Simply exchanging conversation with your children at a sit-down dinner, and including science in that conversation can enhance your child’s curiosity and interest in the subject.

Maybe your child is completely uninterested in science. Perhaps they don’t see the short-term value or are simply bored. Engaging in a fun conversation about it at dinnertime could be extremely beneficial to your child’s development. Emphasize your interest in the subject--give examples of fun science facts. For example, share some interesting animal facts, like, “Did you know a shrimp’s heart is located in its head?” or “Fingerprints of a koala are indistinguishable from human fingerprints?” And then ask follow-up questions, like, “Why do you think that is?” or “Where is the human heart located and how does it pump?”

In addition to learning more about science, this is just a good way to further bond with your child.

Get to Know Teacher and Education

It’s important that as a parent you understand what kind of environment your child is learning and thriving in for the majority of their day. Toe the line between being uninvolved and a helicopter parent, and get to know your child’s teacher. What is the teacher’s method of teaching? Is it traditional, or is it more liberal and creativity-based? Is it suiting your child’s needs in their critical developmental stages?

According to AMS Schools, as STEM occupations rapidly increase, the need for proper STEM education is more vital than ever. Make sure you and your child’s teacher are on the same page, so you can ensure your child is getting the most support to learn science in a way that is productive and meaningful to them.

Do Science Together

Crack open a textbook, make a bowl of popcorn, and spend some one-on-one time with your child going through homework. By engaging in your child’s learning together, you are encouraging your child to learn and develop their STEM skills. You may even brush up on your facts, and learn a thing or two!

Every child feels an innate desire to seek bonding with their parents, and doing homework together is a great way to nurture that.

Rent Science Books From Library

A treasure often forgotten in this day of rapidly advancing technology, the library is a wonderful place to borrow physical resources to assist your child in their learning.

If you don’t know the layout of your local library or are unsure how to navigate to best find science books suited for your child, a librarian is readily available. Ask your librarian about the location of science books, and which ones they might recommend to interest your child. Libraries are fantastic resources to support your child in their learning--and turning a trip to the library is also a great way to spend more time with your child.

Reward-Based System

Many children do not see the long-term reward of studying or learning science. Therefore, try implementing a reward-based system. For example, have them read a paragraph of their science book. After reading a paragraph from their science book, ask them a few comprehensive questions. If they get them correct, reward them with their favorite snack or treat, or a few extra minutes of screentime.

This can be a great way to create motivation for your children, and help build excitement for learning every day.

Try utilizing these steps to best interest your child in science. Little by little, they can learn to be engaged, and they will thank you for your involvement in the future.