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Summer Science: The Night Garden

In the summer time, the kids in our neighborhood stay out late. As dusk looms, a small tribe of parents emerges from the townhouses to bring the kids indoors for the night. This is the perfect time to pause and enjoy a night garden as part of your evening routine. For those of you who live in much warmer places, the night garden also gives you and your children a chance to enjoy resting in the garden. This summer has been a hot one, and going out in the noonday sun hasn’t always been a good and healthy option. As … Continue reading →

Summer Science: The Dirt on Soil

Soil: what’s in it anyway? If you’re exploring the science of gardening this summer, you must explore the basis of garden life, and that’s garden soil. Ask a child what plants need to grow and they will often mention water and light. After some thought about what’s around the plant’s roots, they might mention soil as well. Often we consider soil to be the place where plants get water, and nothing more. But soil is much, much more than a place for water to hide. It’s a hive of activity, even if this activity is hard for us to see … Continue reading →

The Joy of a Dirt Pile

Sandboxes are nice. But, they’re also pretty common. It seems every park, day care and preschool has a sandbox, not to mention plenty of backyards too. If you really want to introduce a hefty dose of science and outdoor fun to your kids—nothing beats the sheer joy and possibility of a big pile of dirt. Now, I know that not everyone has the space or the inclination to put a big pile of dirt in their back yard—but if you do, just think of the possibilities for your kids (and the neighborhood kids as well). And, if you don’t have … Continue reading →

Learning Can Be Fun

Who says you can’t learn anything during summer vacation? Instead of having your kid’s brain turn to mush during the dog days of summer, encourage him to explore science in the great outdoors. Spend the day outside with your son or daughter catching butterflies, planting a garden or snapping digital pictures to create a nature map. Need some more ideas? Take a look at these educational activities: HOMEMADE VOLCANO Materials: Disposable baking pan Soda bottle (16 or 20 oz.) Moist soil 1 tablespoon baking soda 1 cup vinegar Red food coloring Directions: Place the baking pan on the grass, and … Continue reading →

Fun Springtime Activities

Ahh the birds are chirping, the air is beginning to get warmer and the sun is shining brightly. I live in a cold climate area, and while we enjoy many outdoor winter activities, I am always relieved when the tulips poke through the chilled soil and we hear the first Robin song. My children and I love to shake the dust off after a long winter, get back outside and have fun together. Since I am budget conscious, the majority of the activities we do together as a family are little or no cost outings. Try one or more of … Continue reading →