Valley Drive Cooperative Preschool

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Science

At Valley Drive Cooperative Preschool, science explorations are integrated in the classrooms and in outdoor experiences throughout the school year. Peggy Ashbrook, the school's preschool science teacher of over 10 years, encourages the children to investigate their world through direct experiences and observation and to document those experiences. Click here to meet Peggy Ashbrook.

Peggy's principal goal is to help children discover the wonders of the natural world by supporting their explorations with materials and guided discussion. The “inquiry” method is used, where children explore something while posing questions and trying to answer them or discovering more questions. During the activities, children record and discuss what they observe and ask questions.

For examples of science activities for young children, check out the National Science Teachers Association’s (NSTA’s) “Early Years” blog. Through these activities, we at Valley Drive support children in building their own knowledge when possible, instead of letting someone else tell them what they see, and we encourage the use of scientific terms such as "Tyrannosaurus Rex," "force," "insects," and "metamorphosis."

Valley Drive is one of the few schools in the area to emphasize quality science instruction at the preschool level. Each science experience is coordinated with the classroom teachers. Materials related to science activities remain in the classroom for several weeks, allowing children to repeat their experiences and teachers to extend experiences by reading children's literature related to scientific concepts. In addition, building on the cooperative spirit of the school, lesson notes are e-mailed home to encourage families to do science activities together at home.

Additional Resources

Picture Book

What is a Scientist? by Barbara Lehn, with wonderful photos by Carol Krauss
Brookfield, CT: Millbrook Press, 1998.

A good introduction to early childhood science and a reminder to us all that children are very capable. It helps adults remember not to tell children what they see, understand, guess, or wonder about, but to give children time and permission to voice it. Although the book does not reference the National Science Education Standards, it almost describes the definition of inquiry.

Parent and Teacher Resource Books

Science is Simple: Over 250 Activities for Preschoolers, by Peggy Ashbrook
Beltsville, MD: Gryphon House, 2003.

Practical ideas on how to convey concepts using inexpensive or recyclable materials. Each lesson has an accompanying note to copy and send home to families to help them connect to their child’s school.

Worms, Shadows, and Whirlpools, by Karen Worth and Sharon Grollman
Portsmouth, NH: Heinemann, 2003.

Clearly describes the characteristics of a high-quality, early-childhood science program and teacher — what we can strive for. Highlights the work of classroom teachers that relay core ideas in life, physical, and earth and space sciences. Emphasizes doing in-depth exploration of a topic over time.

Magazine

Ladybug: The magazine for young children
A rich source of seasonal stories and poems, many of which include science concepts, as well as occasional science activities. 1-800-821-0115, www.ladybugmag.com