The scientific method is an essential tool for problem-solving and learning. However, it can be challenging for kids to grasp. We’ve broken it down into bite-sized pieces for the young scientist in your life.
What Is the Scientific Method?
In short, the scientific method is a proven process for observation, experimentation and analysis. It encourages curiosity and critical thinking that can help kids develop problem-solving skills at an early age — a skill that will be useful throughout their lives.
Steps of the Scientific Method
Explaining the scientific method to a child requires relatable examples to make it easy to understand. Your focus should be on breaking it down into simple, actionable steps that make sense.
Here’s a look at the scientific method and processes through a child’s lens.
Step 1: Ask a Question
The first step of the scientific method starts with a question that sparks interest and mystery. Encourage kids to engage and ask questions about the world around them. As an example, let’s explore the question, “Why do plants need sunlight to grow?”
Step 2: Do Background Research
After you ask the question, it’s time to do some research to expand your foundation on the topic. Guide kids in gathering information from books, videos or a quick Google search. To help them choose reliable information, teach them the basics of understanding sources, including proper website domains and the difference between fiction and non-fiction.
Step 3: Form a Hypothesis
Now that they have built a foundation, have your child make an educated guess. You can even turn it into a prediction game to help them through the process and make it entertaining. Using our previous plant example, ask them to write a sentence about what they think plants do in sunlight, such as “I think plants grow faster with more sunlight.”
Step 4: Test With an Experiment
Here comes the exciting part — the experiment! Craft a simple experiment based on your child’s subject and hypothesis, incorporating hands-on activities to make the learning enjoyable and memorable. For example, you can get plant seeds and place some in sunlight and some in shade. Have your child water them as needed and check them daily, tracking the plant’s growth on a fun chart.
Step 5: Analyze Results and Draw Conclusions
Once the experiment is over, teach your kids to analyze their results. Then, discuss what the results mean in a fun and engaging way. For the plant experiment, look at the chart and ask your child what they observe. See if they can use their results to draw a conclusion from the experiment. Explain to your child that plants need food like they do, and photosynthesis is how plants use the sun to produce the food they need to grow strong.
Step 6: Share the Results
Encourage your kids to share their findings with family and friends. Create a poster featuring drawings of the results and a short verbal presentation. Let your kids take charge of the story and help them if needed.
How Science Explorers Can Help With Children’s Science Education
Science Explorers offers several ways for kids to get involved with the scientific method through our after-school science clubs and summer science camps. These hands-on programs are designed to spark curiosity and make science exciting. We have programs available for kids from four to 11 years old.
Contact us today to learn about our fun science opportunities for kids!