Rad Lab – Science Fun for Kids

0

Kids are naturally curious about the world they live in. Any mom of a toddler can attest to the constant questioning of, “Why?” Being a mommy of three children AND a first grade teacher I spend most of my days attempting to provide explanations. But, I’m always looking for ways that my children (students included) can make their own discoveries about the world around them.

Courtney Flynn and Jennifer Moore are two New Canaan mommies (who happen to be neighbors) contemplating the same things. Together they have spent many play dates discussing what their children love. They know experiments, investigating and asking questions are things that all children enjoy. Both being certified teachers; Jenn has a science background and Courtney has an early childhood background, they combined their experiences and developed Rad Lab!

Rad Lab is an amazing science program for children ages 3-5 which fosters children’s natural curiosity while building science skills and concepts. These hour long drop-off classes follow the scientific method and provide hands-on experience with science investigations that are aligned with the Core Science Curriculum Frameworks for Pre-K to 2nd grade.

get-attachment.aspx
Guiding the little scientists in identifying chemical and physical changes.

I recently had the opportunity to take my 3 ½ year old son to a Rad Lab science class at the Methodist Church in New Canaan. Once he put on his official lab coat and safety goggles the session began with a sensory activity (play dough) that introduced the week’s core theme of physical and chemical changes. The question of the day was, “What kind of changes can we see?” My son was encouraged to share his observations and make a hypothesis. Right from the start he was engaged! I was so impressed with the level of vocabulary and questioning.

get-attachment-1.aspx
My little Rad Lab scientist!

Next, the little scientists were off to complete several hands-on experiments. They were instructed to use vinegar, food coloring, and baking soda to create a chemical change….bubbles!!! Then they mixed yeast, food coloring, and water to make sticky gooey foam. Courtney and Jenn encouraged the children to try using different amounts to change their reaction. Throughout the experiments they monitored each child asking questions to promote inquiry, and encouraging the scientists to use their five senses during exploration.

get-attachment-2.aspx
Even the youngest scientists are encouraged to make a hypothesis and record observations!

A story was also read to the children as a further example of physical and chemical changes. Lots of repetition was used to emphasize the concept. The session ended with a discussion and written observation in their science notebooks, providing closure on the weekly core theme.

Overall, my son had an awesome experience, and could not stop talking about all the fun experiments on the car ride home. I was in awe of his use of science vocabulary after only one session! I highly recommend signing up your little ones for a 10 week session. Since there are not many science programs for preschool-age children available, I suspect that these classes will fill up quickly! Registration for new families begins TODAY, October 19th!

Rad Lab also offers birthday parties! For a party, they will come to your home and do a 45 minute investigation session with your little scientist and up to 20 friends. Several packages are available for you to choose depending on the interests of your child.

For further information on Rad Lab, please visit their website www.radlabscience.com and “like” them on Facebook.

This post was sponsored by Rad Lab, but the opinions are my own. Please support our sponsors.

Previous articleTime to Get Organized
Next articleHappy Diwali! Raising a Multi-Cultural Family in the Melting Pot
Michelle
Michelle is the Owner and Editor of Fairfield County Mom and Westchester County Mom. She has spent her entire life in Fairfield County, growing up in Norwalk and now residing in Fairfield, CT. Michelle married her husband, Chris, in October 2008. Before motherhood, she thought she was busy, but now life with her son Shane (March 2011), twins, Blake and Brynn (June 2013), Hank the Lab, and Bruce the Frenchie; the meaning of hectic has been redefined! Michelle is also a working mom, teaching third grade at a local public school. When she’s not making lists, chauffeuring the kids, and doing laundry, Michelle enjoys standing along the sidelines cheering on her kids, lounging with a good book, eating dark chocolate, and sipping on some tequila.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here