Kindergarten Science

What your child will learn and do in Kindergarten Science

In kindergarten, students develop a sense of wonder and curiosity about the real (natural) and designed (man-made) world. Recognizing that scientific knowledge and practices build over time, at this grade level  students are introduced to investigating and asking questions about their world to initial understanding about how the real and the designed world work. Students use evidence they collect to explain phenomena (simple observable events) to support their thinking and problem solving in the areas of physical, earth, and life sciences, as well as engineering. These experiences provide access for all students to develop scientific awareness. Activities in these areas include:


  • Making observations and asking questions about their environment

  • Using their senses and simple measuring tools to collect data

  • Making predictions based on observed patterns, such as what living organisms need to survive or the weather

  • Investigating nonliving and living things in terms of growth, offspring, and the need for energy from “food” 

  • Observing that weather conditions vary daily and seasonally

  • Relating seasonal weather patterns to appropriate choices of clothing and activities

  • Comparing the effects of different strengths of pushes and pulls on the motion of an object  

  • Comparing  the effects of  different directions of pushes and pulls on the motion of an object 

  • Investigating how tools help us understand our environment and make our lives easier


Helping your child learn outside of school:    

Look for everyday opportunities to have your child explore scientific concepts.

  • Talk about the weather with your child and discuss clothing decisions based on the daily weather.

  • Observe the clouds in the sky and talk about what you notice.  

  • Sort and classify objects around your home.

  • Discuss the different materials used and types of buildings you find in your neighborhood or town.

  • Share and discuss how you solve problems and use measurement in your everyday life, such as while cooking, building, gardening, or caring for a family pet.

  • Take a walk in your neighborhood or in a local park during all times of the year to observe the changes in nature.

  • Ask your child what they are figuring out and learning about in science. 

  • Ask your students what evidence, or reasons, they have for their ideas.  

  • Watch special science-related television or video programs together.

  • Visit your local library regularly to check out books on science topics that interest your child.

  • Read informational books or magazines together about topics your child is interested in and/or is studying in school. 

  • Visit local nature centers, museums, and science centers.

  • Take a hike in your neighborhood or in a local park during all times of the year to observe the changes in nature.

  • Provide opportunities to use various tools around the home.

  • Encourage friends and family to give books or magazine subscriptions to your child as gifts


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