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(Unit 2) Topic 6: Simple Science

2 Clock Hours of Early Childhood Education

Scientific Process for Toddlers

​Topic 6 Page 7

​The scientific process for toddlers is similar to the process for infants, however, it contains more responsibility and awareness of self and environment. This awareness allows toddlers to make real hypotheses and investigations. Activities that were once very simple, can now become complex for the toddler just by a simple question or curiosity.

Let’s break down the scientific process for toddlers.

​Nathaniel makes an observation that the blocks can be stacked, then creates a hypothesis and investigates it. When he analyzes the outcome of his experiment, he finds that the blocks have fallen over and he is displeased. Nathaniel communicates this by crying and alerting the attention of his caregiver or teacher. 

​​While simple and common, this experience was a scientific discovery for Nathaniel which will build upon his prior experiences with blocks. This may also teach Nathaniel that block towers are fragile, and he may be cautious when classmates come near his block tower. These experiences yield a great deal of information for toddlers.

How to support science for toddlers:

Listen
Older toddlers begin to have many questions about the world around them. Even younger toddlers will gesture and attempt to ask questions. Listen to what they have to say and respond in a developmentally appropriate way. They are learning as much about the world around them from you as they are from their own discoveries.

​Explore together
​​Invite toddlers to learn along with you. Creating a safe place to learn and explore begins with trusting an adult or caregiver. Learning and exploring a new concept together is a great place to start.

​Ask questions to spark curiosity​
​Ask questions even if you know the answers. These questions can guide a toddler to new ideas and curiosities that they may not have explored on their own. Asking questions that you know the answers to will help solidify a toddler’s knowledge of a concept.

​Accept the mess
​Toddlers don’t have the fine motor control that older children have, so expect a mess and accept the mess. Let toddlers scoop, pour, dig, touch, taste (when safe), smell and more. They are learning and practicing by exercising these skills.

(Unit 2) Topic 6: Simple Science * Navigation Menu