Enriching Education: Let's Learn about Science

With a few ingredients parents likely already have in the kitchen and some virtual guidance from Dr. Ryan, they can transform their kitchens into mini science laboratories. These activities are perfect for children learning from home or a fun weekend or after school activity that will encourage science, chemistry, and learning. Some of the science experiments for kids ages four to six that Dr. Ryan created include:

1. Dancing raisins: With warm water, baking soda, vinegar, and raisins, a chemical reaction causes raisins to “dance".
2. Baking soda and vinegar reaction: Baking soda and vinegar cause a chemical reaction that creates bubbles. It gives kids a good opportunity to think about what is inside the bubbles and even guide them to design an experiment that could capture that gas.
3. Blowing up balloons: Blow up balloons without air in this experiment. Lemon juice, lime juice, vinegar, and baking soda create a chemical reaction that will inflate balloons.

I had a chance to interview Stephanie to learn more.

Why is it important for kids to do hands-on science activities at home?
Seeing the science that is all around them helps them see that the world is full of science and it isn't just in a textbook. Learning something new with your child is powerful and shows children that learning is a lifelong endeavor!

How can parents and caregivers encourage an interest in science even if they don't feel strong in that field?
Use the resources online and on the market. There are loads of subscription boxes (see @letslearnaboutscience on Instagram for suggestions!) and books that offer parents support for this! Remember, it is okay to not be comfortable and to learn alongside your child!

 
Where can families go to find more activities?
There are many science communicators online that share science with the public. Google, Youtube, and Instagram are fantastic places to search!

Stephanie Ryan

Stephanie Ryan has a strong background in chemistry and biology and enjoys applying her background to develop superior educational products. She is also interested in how mathematics and science intertwine. Stephanie Ryan has experience in curriculum development, assessment, and training staff how to use technology and software. Stephanie Ryan has taught science in formal and informal settings from K-16, and developed curricula for After School Matters programs in Chicago, Illinois.

Stephanie Ryan earned her Ph.D. in the Learning Sciences from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She has an M.S. and B.S. in chemistry, from the University of Illinois at Chicago and Saint Mary’s College, respectively.

For more information, please visit http://www.letslearnaboutscience.com/ or www.ryaneducationconsulting.com/

Follow Stephanie Ryan on Instagram @LetsLearnAboutScience