1. Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved. Caring for School-Age Children Chapter 12 Science and Math

2. Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved. Science and Math Enhance Development Support educational experiences in school Provide opportunity for problem solving Construct knowledge Develop scientific literacy Enhance self-esteem and self- confidence

3. Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved. Children Are Natural Scientists Engage in inquiry and experimentation Make observations Hypothesize and test Draw conclusions Develop theories

4. Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved. Children Are Natural Mathematicians Learn to conserve number Count Measure Talk about quantity, time, distances Classify, sequence Use mathematical vocabulary Solve problems

5. Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved. Math and Science Are Related Math skills are used to help organize science discoveries Math language is used to communicate science ideas and discoveries Math skills can be integrated into most science activities

6. Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved. Process and Content of Science The process of science involves inquiry, experimentation, observation, and hypothesis testing The content of science is the body of scientific facts Children can memorize facts but construct their own knowledge through hands-on experience

7. Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved. Science and Math Environment Science and math centers Interest centers Field trips Guided small- or whole-group activity Outdoor play

8. Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved. Role of the Child Care Leader Show interest in science discoveries Obtain background knowledge for activity Ask divergent questions Encourage integration of math and science Identify knowledge possibilities of the science activities Observe children’s interactions Encourage children to record their findings

9. Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved. Sciences Physical science: How can I make it move? Chemistry: How can I make it change? Biological and earth science: How do I fit in and what is my role?

10. Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved. Science Equipment Animal habitats Binoculars Magnifying glasses Flashlights Balance scales Rulers, meter sticks Simple machines Measuring cups Magnets Microscope Mirrors Thermometer

11. Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved. Math in Child Care Everyday experiences Real-life experiences Weigh, measure, and classify things whenever possible Create real-life problems for children to solve

12. Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved. Math Equipment Cooking equipment Rulers, meter sticks Measuring tapes Calculator Balance scales Tongs, tweezers Sorting trays or containers Objects to sort

13. Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved. Role of the Child Care Leader Provide time to explore and experiment Provide enticing materials Postpone giving answers to questions Listen to children’s thinking Encourage all children Maintain a questioning attitude Document children’s work and learning

14. Copyright 2006 Thomson Delmar Learning. All Rights Reserved. Personal Reflection What science and/or math area has the most appeal to you as a child care leader? Why? What skills do you bring to children?