Sultry Science

Science is not my mother’s forte.  Many moons ago, my father was into science, but I think as the years have passed, his affinity for it has waned.  This being said, I don’t want my children to miss out on Science this summer due to their lack of interest.

Thus I have turned to technology and the internet to provide me guidance.  There are many sites geared toward children where I was able to gather ideas.  Scholastic has the Magic School Bus, which is a fun animation, albeit a little older than the flashy cartoons of today.   Nevertheless, I was able to find episodes that were geared toward my summer educational topics on Netflix.

PBS Kids also has a lot of fun games to play inspired by science and fun.  Cyberchase has math and science topics.  Lunch Lab has games based around food.  Cat in the Hat had a space themed game.  I also found some space games at the NASA kid’s site I thought my kids might enjoy.  These options might provide a good compromise and possibly a few moments of rest for the grandparents while the kids are at play on the computer.

I also included some simple Science experiments that I think my mother can implement without too much hassle.  For instance, on the inevitable hot summer day, the kids can try their hand at sun melted crayon art.  During the weather themed week the kids can build a tornado in a recycled plastic bottle.  To understand how force can propel a rocket into space, they will be making balloon rockets in the house.

An ongoing activity they can embark on with their grandfather would be gardening.  He grew up on a farm and is constantly puttering around the backyard.  I remember having to recall which type of plant was growing in the backyard based on the leaf, flower and smell of the plant.  I would love for my children to have that same knowledge so they are aware of where their food comes from, how it is grown and to be cognitive of what is edible.  I know their grandparents have discussed bringing them to a farm in Mentone.  Hopefully it is possible to take a field trip there, to Amy's Farm in Ontario or even the Rancho Botanical Gardens in Claremont.

I’m sure we’ll be able to offer some good options to keep Science on the agenda and as part of their weekly fun.