Earth and Sky

Young children are naturally curious about nature and the outdoor environment. When given the opportunity, they love to investigate earth’s materials — sand, dirt, water and rocks — observe the daytime and nighttime sky and experience all types of weather. School-aged children are increasingly independent in their investigations. Six-year-olds notice details in the characteristics of earth’s natural materials and are able to compare their different colors, sizes, shapes, textures and weights. They enjoy making and using tools to observe the weather and the sky more closely and are able — with your support — to make and record observations over time. They are also learning that people can have a positive influence on the environment and may enjoy participating in “reduce, reuse and recycle” activities. The types of materials and weather you and your child investigate will depend on where you live and the time of year. As you explore the earth and sky with your six-year-old, talk with them about their observations, experiences and ideas and get outdoors with them whenever you can throughout the year. When you support their investigations, they get the message that their explorations are important to you. You may notice that your six-year-old exhibits specific interests — in investigating rocks, clouds or space, for example — so remember to follow their lead! These experiences lay the foundation for your child’s beginning understanding of earth’s resources, earth as a home for all living things and earth’s place in a wider universe.