Nature Science
Science it a core subject for most of us. Science is the observation, identification, description, experimental investigation, and theoretical explanation of everything. That can seem overwhelming, and when you look at it through that description, it is. But science is often the most fun and exciting subject for kids because it involves so many hands on activity and sometimes giant messes. And even though science kits can be a great way to learn science, some of the best science you have is in your own backyard.
Nature science, life science, or Creation science is the science of the natural world around you. More particularly, it’s the science of the things living around you or within you, including their environment. It can be year’s worth of curriculum just observing and interacting with these things. Children naturally want to dig in and discover their surroundings if they aren’t taught otherwise. There is something so disappointing about a child who isn’t willing to get dirty. Although all children will have a certain level of comfort with being dirty, be sure you don’t teach them that being dirty is wrong, because this is where nature science begins.
Start with conversation. What does your child see going on or around them? Is there fungus growing somewhere near by? Why do they have to brush their teeth? Plaque is growing. Why do they smell after a long, hard day of playing? Because bacteria is growing on them! What about the plants outside? Are they green or brown? And how do the seasons or weather affect that? You could literally talk for hours if you wanted to. And if your children are older, use this is their catalyst for writing, have them right down all that is going on around them. Even if you’re limited to a city apartment all day, there is plenty going on in your bathroom with your child’s body to make a lengthy study of the human body.
And if you don’t think there is enough nature science going on around you, make it happen. Grow fungus on a piece of bread; this is a classic science experiment because it is so easy and effective in teaching. Didn’t remember to throw out last weeks left overs? Show your child the green fuzz on the Tupperware lid. And when all else fails, or ever when it doesn’t, get a pet. A fish in a bowl can be kept on a desk top but teaches all the basic for life, as well as teach great things like responsibility and sometimes death.