Spring is a great time for science/nature investigation and experiments with preschoolers. Observation is a huge part of science so getting outside and noticing the changes in the natural world is a good place to start. You should bring a magnifying glass so your child can get a close-up view of plants, insects, and even animal tracks.
Here are three fun experiments to try and links to other resources…
1) A favorite with young children and a way to learn how plant pull water up from their roots to their leaves and petals. This is done through capillary action. Water can move up, against gravity, as it clings to dryer areas. For example, if you put a drop of water on a coffee filter, it spreads. It this case we see how water moves up a stem by placing white flowers (I use carnations, some people use roses or daisies) in cups with water & food coloring. The nice thing about this experiment is the petals start changing color within hours.
I always like to carefully cut the stems of a couple flowers… slice them in half the long way so you can put half into one color and half into another color of water. It’s fun to see the resulting multicolored flower. If you use primary colored food coloring (red, yellow, blue) you may even get a little secondary color line (orange, green, purple) where they meet.
2) This one is simple and all you need is a magnifying glass. Spread a scoop of dirt or compost on a tray and see what’s living there. Try dirt from a few different places and note where there’s more life. See if you and your child can figure out why the samples are different.
3) Here’s a fun and tasty experiment that requires patience—a trait all young scientist need to cultivate. Learn about rocks, minerals, and crystallization by making your own rock candy. Here’s a link to the project… https://www.food.com/recipe/rock-candy-for-kids-1069
Looking for more fun with science?
https://www.sciencefun.org/kidszone/experiments/
