Raising Scientifically Literate Kids

Imagine if our kids walked into their schools to take a test and told the teachers that all their answers must be correct because they have “alternative facts.” Unfortunately, some people think that “alternative facts” exist and that their ideas should be viewed as the truth as opposed to scientific facts. It is now critical to raise children who view information through a realistic, scientific approach so that they do not fall prey to such lies in their lives.

Science is a critical part of our lives, and we rely on scientific data to protect us from contaminated food, polluted air and water, and transportation accidents—just to name a few. Every time we go to the doctor, our lives depend on accurate medical information. When we go shopping, our health and safety are tied to numerous scientific studies that have identified which products are safe for us to use. If we no longer believe in science, then we are no longer safe.

How To Raise Scientifically Literate Children

Neil deGrasse Tyson is an American astrophysicist, author, science communicator, and father. During an interview he explained the importance of raising scientifically literate children. He said that it is important for children to encounter situations that force them to think about how the world works. Understanding science helps them to confront issues that impact their lives and society. He emphasized that if children do not grow up to be scientifically literate, they will be disenfranchised from the democratic process.

We may not be able to control the news right now, but as parents we have the power to raise educated children who have the ability to evaluate the information presented to them. Here are some ways that you can instill a sense of inquisitiveness and scientific literacy in your children.

1. Read: From a very young age, read books about science topics to your children to encourage their curiosity and broaden their knowledge base. As they get older, encourage them to read about science topics that interest them, whether it be dinosaurs, outer space, climate, or computers. Check out the National Science Teacher’s Association book recommendations, subscribe to magazines like National Geographic Kids, and find websites geared toward science education for children.
2. Watch: Seek out children’s television programming and videos that focus on science. My children loved watching Sid the Science Kid on PBS when they were younger, which is all about the scientific discovery process. Now that my son is older, he enjoys watching Discovery Channel shows including Mythbusters that tests scenes from books or movies using experiments. I love this show because it really teaches the value of not believing everything we see.
3. Visit: Take your children to awe-inspiring places where they can learn about science, such as museums, planetariums, botanical gardens, aquariums, nature centers, and zoos. Incorporate science into your vacations by hiking, skiing, fishing and visiting places like national parks, lakes, and beaches. During these activities, encourage your children to ask questions about what they observe and enjoy a back-and-forth discussion. If you are unable to travel, check out the numerous online resources from science museums and nature centers.
4. Experiment: When it comes time to make birthday and holiday wish lists, add some science kits to your children’s list. My children have always enjoyed playing with kits where they can do science experiments. They have built a model volcano, hooked up electric circuits to make things spin or buzz, and learned about measuring and chemical reactions using everyday products. Or set up your own experiments. It can be as simple as filling up the sink with water and testing different items to see what sinks and what floats. Ask your children to predict what will happen before doing the test and ask why they thought it happened after their observations.
5. Attend: Sign your kids up for extracurricular science and technology classes or summer camp. A few summers ago my son enjoyed a week at science camp and now he is taking coding classes online. These have been wonderful opportunities for him to learn in depth about science topics.
6. Create: By incorporating simple science-based activities into your child’s life, you can inspire their interest in and love for science. Spend time together in the kitchen baking and explaining how measuring works and why baked goods rise in the oven. Plant a family garden and appreciate spending time outside and then enjoying the food that grows. When your children need to take medicine, explain how important it is to follow the directions on the bottle and how chemicals affect us.

There are endless opportunities to bring science to the forefront of your children’s lives so they begin to see the world through a scientifically literate lens. And when you learn together, you make it incredibly meaningful. and fun.

Sandi Schwartz is an award-winning author, journalist, and mother. She has written about parenting, wellness, and environmental issues. Her parenting book, Finding Ecohappiness: Fun Nature Activities to Help Your Kids Feel Happier and Calmer, and children’s book, Sky’s Search for Ecohappiness, are available now. Learn more at www.ecohappinessproject.com.