For my second segment of teaching tips, I thought I would discuss one of the harder subjects to remember to teach. We all remember to teach Math (perhaps because so many of us dread it?) but Science is easy to forget.
If the thought of dissecting frogs, memorizing the periodic table, or explaining photosynthesis makes you break out in a cold sweat, take heart: science can be fun, messy, and even enjoyable—without requiring a PhD. I have to admit, I enjoy the dissections, but my kids don't enjoy it quite as much. But here’s how to survive (and maybe even thrive) teaching science at home.
1. Science is Curiosity, Not Perfection
You don’t need to know all the answers. Modeling curiosity is the secret sauce. Say things like, “I wonder what will happen if…?” or “Let’s find out together!”—your kids learn that exploration is more important than correctness. Bonus: you don’t have to Google everything in front of them. Although if you find a really neat caterpillar, it is absolutely fine to use Google to learn about it right in that moment.
2. Hands-On Experiments Are Your Lifesaver
Forget dry textbooks. Simple experiments bring science to life and keep everyone engaged. Baking soda volcanoes (just be mindful that Dad may use too much baking soda and stain the ceiling!), floating eggs, or rainbow in a glass—all these are easy, cheap, and messy enough to make learning memorable. And yes, the mess can double as a reason to laugh together.
3. Turn Everyday Life into a Lab
Science isn’t confined to a classroom. Cooking is chemistry, gardening is biology, and laundry is physics (yes, gravity is real when socks fly in the dryer). Observing clouds, birds, or even ants teaches kids to notice patterns and ask questions. Plus, it’s a chance to get fresh air without leaving your backyard.
4. Use Videos, Apps, and Virtual Field Trips
Not a scientist? No problem. YouTube, science apps, and virtual museum tours let your kids explore complex topics with friendly guides. You can “co-pilot” the lesson without feeling like you’re leading a lecture you barely remember from school. A day trip to the local museum or STEM center can be an amazing learning opportunity.
5. Short Bursts Beat Long Lectures
Science experiments can be exhausting for both kids and parents. Fifteen to twenty-minute sessions—especially for younger kids—keep focus high and frustration low. The bonus: you can sneak in a coffee break while the experiment “runs” itself (think vinegar baking soda reactions or a seed sprouting in a cup).
6. Encourage Questions (Even the Silly Ones)
Science thrives on questions. “Why is the sky blue?” “Why do cats purr?” “Why can’t I eat my science textbook?” Answer some, investigate others, and occasionally laugh at the ridiculousness. Modeling curiosity beats memorization every time. Teach your children to search for answers, and they'll be able to learn anything.
7. Celebrate Small Wins
Maybe your 4th grader finally grasps the water cycle, or your 7th grader builds a working simple machine. Celebrate it! Science is cumulative—small discoveries lead to big understanding, and confidence grows faster than a fast-germinating bean.
8. Keep Humor and Flexibility Front and Center
Science doesn’t always go as planned. Explosions might be bigger than intended, plants might not sprout, or your toddler may dump the experiment all over the floor. Laugh, reset, and remember: the goal is learning, not perfection.
Bonus Tip: Keep a “Science Survival Kit” handy—paper towels, goggles, a sense of humor, and maybe coffee for the parent. Experiments are more fun when you’re prepared for anything (including accidental eruptions).
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