If we took a poll, it’s unlikely that the majority of Self Development Academy parents would consider themselves scientists. However, we all practice science when we oversee chemical reactions while baking or we estimate the time and distance we have to run to a toddling child about to get pummeled by a basketball.
According to a recent Wall Street Journal article, the same goes for kids: they have a natural penchant for science, but when asked, most don’t want to be scientists when they grow up. The takeaway? Encourage students to practice science without the label.
Curious.
Asking questions is the most natural place to start. Any parent of a four-year-old knows they wonder about everything. Why is the sky blue? Why can’t I have chocolate chips for dinner? Who first discovered corn pops into popcorn?
Encourage questions and help your kids find the answers. Experiments and the scientific method don’t have to include a lab report and a grade. Make it fun!
Messy.
Reading about chemistry or anatomy is one thing. But finding hands-on ways to really learn is quite another. Let your kids dissect chicken bones after you eat a rotisserie chicken. Find different recipes for bath bombs with baking soda, lemon juice, salt, and cornstarch and spend the afternoon in swimsuits and the bathtub, testing out which one is best.
Check out more fun ideas for simple science experiments to do at home.
Comprehensive.
Understand that an appreciation for science fits into a bigger picture of a well-rounded education that values the arts, critical thinking, creativity, mathematics, sports, and music. At SDA, we have a robust curriculum that offers all of that and more.
For science specifically, SDA offers opportunities that many schools don’t:
- Science Labs – SDA students are exposed to hands-on science labs, which is rare in elementary schools.
- Science Fairs – The annual science fair gives students the opportunity to explore an area of interest within various science fields and directly apply the scientific process to a subject of personal interest.
- Science Olympiad – Middle school students may also participate in the Science Olympiad and compete with other students throughout the Valley.
If you’re looking for a school that encourages students to practice science, not just learn it, you’ve found the place! SDA is recognized as one of the best K-8 charter schools nationwide. We have campuses in Phoenix and Mesa. Find email and phone numbers here. We can’t wait to hear from you!
