Teaching Science and Technology in the Early Years (3-7) celebrates young children’s amazing capabilities as scientists, designers and technologists. Research-based yet practical and accessible, it demonstrates how scientific, designing and making activities are natural to young children, and have the potential for contributing to all aspects of their learning. By identifying the scientific and design-related concepts, skills and activities being developed, the book enables the reader to make more focused diagnostic observations of young children and plan for how they can help move them forward in their learning. This second edition has been thoroughly updated and features: Six new chapters providing practical advice and examples for enhancing scientific and technological learning through thematic approaches a new chapter focusing on the outdoor learning environment and how this can support science and technology new case studies of successful early years practice, alongside examples of practical planning for learning, and advice on documenting children’s learning stories, guidance on the role of talk, narrative, documentation and planning in relation to early years science and technology Based on the latest research and the first hand experience, this practical and accessible book is essential reading for early years and primary students on undergraduate and Masters level courses.

This practical text seeks to answer such questions as how young children learn science, design and technology and how they can be supported to develop these skills. It gives advice on providing a learning environment and recognising needs.

How do young children learn science, design and technology? How can we support young children and help them to develop scientific, design and technology skills? This practical and accessible text answers these questions and provides guidance for adults working with young children in a variety of formal and informal settings. Concrete advice is given to show how parents, carers, teachers and other professionals can provide a rich learning environment and support children in this important area of the curriculum. The differing needs of both adults and children are recognized and a variety of stimulating activities is illustrated. A clear and helpful discussion of a developmental framework enables readers to strengthen their own practice and understanding. The book will be of value to all early childhood professionals as well as being of great interest to parents and carers.

Teaching Science and Technology in the Early Years (3-7) celebrates young children’s amazing capabilities as scientists, designers and technologists. Research-based yet practical and accessible, it demonstrates how scientific, designing and making activities are natural to young children, and have the potential for contributing to all aspects of their learning. By identifying the scientific and design-related concepts, skills and activities being developed, the book enables the reader to make more focused diagnostic observations of young children and plan for how they can help move them forward in their learning. This second edition has been thoroughly updated and features: Six new chapters providing practical advice and examples for enhancing scientific and technological learning through thematic approaches a new chapter focusing on the outdoor learning environment and how this can support science and technology new case studies of successful early years practice, alongside examples of practical planning for learning, and advice on documenting children’s learning stories, guidance on the role of talk, narrative, documentation and planning in relation to early years science and technology Based on the latest research and the first hand experience, this practical and accessible book is essential reading for early years and primary students on undergraduate and Masters level courses.

'A very practical book, which focuses on sound advice from an expert in D&T education.. Here you will find a wealth of ideas for putting into practice. What shines through is the depth of experience that Newton brings to the work.. This is an invaluable resource for any primary school and deserves to be widely read. I have no doubt that teachers will rate it highly' - Primary Science Review. 'As the focus in education is on developing a more creative curriculum, this book is a must for both experienced teachers and students alike'-. Linda Johnston, Head Teacher, Sedgefield Hardwick Primary Sch.

The foundation for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education begins in the early years. This book provides more than ninety activities and learning center ideas that seamlessly integrate STEM throughout early childhood classrooms. These hands-on STEM experiences enhance cooking, art, and music activities, block play and sensory table exploration, and field trips and outdoor time. Information on assessment and early learning standards is also provided. Sally Moomaw, EdD, has spent much of her career researching and teaching STEM education. She is an assistant professor at the University of Cincinnati and the author of several early education books.

Explore STEM concepts through making and tinkering!