17.05.12
"Kids are already scientists. You just have to avoid squashing that instinct," says Bob Hirshon, who works on children's science programs at the American Association for the Advancement of Science. "They are already interested in finding new things and being detectives. That is what science is."
MORE: The really good microwave playdough recipe STORY: Smartest toys for kids can be the simplest MORE: Simple gifts of learning spark creativity, curiosity in kids
Parents can save money and teach kids about everything from chemistry to fractions just by mixing up home-made Play-Doh, says Jennifer Farrington, president and CEO of the Chicago Children's Museum. Parents can be more ambitious with older kids, helping them create home-made marble runs — which offer lessons in physics and engineering — with wood, pipes and other hardware store staples. Farrington says her son's favorite building projects involve controlled mayhem, such as homemade marshmallow blowers and catapults.
Source: USA Today