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 — look up and observe the sky and experience all types of weather. School-aged children are increasingly independent in their investigations. As your eight-year-old explores earth’s materials, they notice, describe and compare and categorize them by their properties — some rocks are harder than others; ocean water is salty. They are increasingly able to make and record their weather and sky observations over time — such as the shape and location of the moon on different nights — and identify patterns. They enjoy making and using tools for observing, collecting and recording what they find. They understand that people can have a positive influence on the environment and can participate actively 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 eight-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 eight-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.