Science wonders at preschool

Pretty Beach preschool children will have the opportunity to experience the wonders of science when Questacon Science Play pays a visit to the local school on Friday, March 23.

The program is designed for children aged three to five and aims to encourage young children to discover the fascinating world around them.

"During each one-hour Questacon science play session, children and their carers experience a unique mixture of storytelling, science demonstrations and free play, including a shadow play tent and home-made musical instruments," said Questacon presenter Ms Megan Dwyer.

"The wide variety of engaging activities allow children to explore science themes such as light, sound, liquids and colour in a play-based environment."

Questacon Science Play was developed at Questacon, the National Science and Technology Centre, in consultation with early childhood experts.

The combination of play sessions, a take-home booklet filled with fun, simple science activities and new DVD, Explore Your World, allows parents and carers to share science investigations with their children.

"It's very important for children to have positive experiences with science at a young age," said Ms Dwyer.

"Questacon Science Play is a great opportunity to engage children in science but it also encourages parents and carers to explore and discover along with the children in their care.

"Play is a vital part of a child's development.

"It forms the foundation of social, physical, and emotional skills necessary for success in school and in life.

"For example, puzzles and block building help lay foundations for logical mathematical thinking, scientific reasoning, and cognitive problem solving," she said.

Children from Good Start Early Learning in Woy Woy were also able to participate in the program when it visited on Thursday, March 15.

Media Release, 13 Mar 2012 Vanessa Gardos, Outreach