Every parent wants the best for their child. So, whatever they aspire to be, parents will do everything possible to help them reach their goals. If you have a young aspiring scientist, there are various ways you can support them on their path towards a career in science. We’ll break down some of the key ways you do this below.
1. Allow Them to Take Things Apart
Dr. Mary Rodgers, the senior scientist at Abbott Laboratories, stated that building can be creative and fun and that taking apart an object can be just as educational as putting one together. Give your child the freedom to take things apart piece by piece and then try putting them back together again. Keep in mind that children shouldn’t play with things that may have wiring or electrical elements, and they should stick with toys that are appropriate for the child’s age.
2. Reading Together
The two of you should make time to read together. Keep in mind that whatever texts you choose should be age-appropriate for better understanding. Also, choosing a broad array of subject matter is beneficial and educational. Your selections could be about animals, the universe, history, and so forth. Furthermore, completing this activity together could help to inspire a love of reading in your child when they get to spend quality time reading with you.
3. Practice Science & Math Problem Solving
School shouldn’t be the only place where science and math topics are discussed. So, look for opportunities to incorporate fun science and math problems into family life. You can make room for math and science during dinner, game night, before bed, or during homework time. Doing so may also help you get an idea of whether your child struggles with a certain topic or area. If so, you can share motivational stories about how you handled science or math as a child.
4. Play Games Related to Math & Science
Incorporating fun into math and science is a good strategy for encouraging them to enjoy it. There are many different ways you could go about this, ranging from collecting tadpoles, ladybugs, and other insects to mixing baking soda and vinegar with various coloring. When your child delves into exploring fun applications for math and science, they will sharpen their cognitive and creative skills, as well as see how these topics can be enjoyable and interesting.
5. Throw In Some Art
Studying and experimenting with art assists in the creative development of children and may assist with them becoming more comfortable with complex tasks. Art also incorporates skills like critical thinking, which is essential to comprehending science and math principles. It also helps provide a change of pace to the structure and rigidity that are sometimes associated with learning math and science. Allowing them to take a break and have a little freedom of expression can actually help to improve their math and science skills simultaneously.
6. Enroll Your Child in STEAM/STEM Camps
STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. These camps are made up of technical fields and the incorporation of science education through fun activities and projects for children. They might even get their hands on real scientific equipment from companies like Greiner Bio-One. Typically, there are camps such as this for children of all ages.
7. Search for Science in Everyday Life
And lastly, but certainly not least, you can help your child discover science by encouraging them to look for real, active science happening in their daily lives. This could be current news, animal habits, chemical processes in their own body, etc. Teach your budding scientist that science plays a part in almost every aspect of living.
Conclusion
With your enthusiastic support and guidance, you can help your child appreciate science and the role it plays in their life. And when they become mature adults, they will treasure you even more for giving your all as a parent and helping them understand this important subject, putting them on a path for success.