Spotlight on Young Children: Exploring Science

Children’s early SCIENCE experiences, at school and at home, are the foundation for future science learning and comprehension—throughout the school years and life. 

This collection of articles from NAEYC’s journal Young Children showcases exciting ways to support children’s science explorations from infancy through age 8. The authors offer ideas for science-rich environments and hands-on activities that promote young learners’ investigations and discovery. The articles describe teaching approaches and child-initiated projects that introduce children to scientific and engineering practices, and concepts in the physical, life, and earth and space sciences and in engineering and technology. The book includes a professional development guide with questions and activities to help readers reflect on current science teaching practices and incorporate new ones. 

This book is part of NAEYC’s best-selling Spotlight series—great resources for the college classroom and for professional development.

Amy Shillady is journal editor for NAEYC’s award-winning Young Children. She facilitates the peer review process, performs developmental editing of articles, and serves as the primary editor for journal columns. Amy also edits selected NAEYC Spotlight Series books.

Leah Schoenberg Muccio was editorial associate at NAEYC.