What is Science Practices

Engaging young children in science and engineering learning experiences leverages their curiosity and interest in the natural and physical world. Recent initiatives at the national, state, and local levels have begun to elevate science and engineering as key domains of early learning. This chapter provides an overview of why science and engineering should be promoted early, including discussions of how current views of K-12 science and engineering align with whole-child approaches in preschool, how preschool science and engineering can support children's current and later learning, and how co-design efforts can make these early learning experiences relevant and meaningful. The chapter also reviews the evidence regarding science tools and resources, as well as the promise of curricula and professional development programs. Overall, greater alignment in preschool and elementary efforts is needed to create high quality, cohesive and coherent science and engineering learning experiences across time.