Science lessons for kids are anything but boring. When I opened Asia Citro’s book, The Curious Kid’s Science Book, I knew it was perfect for our home (and beyond!) Learning and experimenting are coming alive with three self-claimed mini-scientists through a DIY plant maze science activity for kids!
RELATED: What are the best science experiments for kids? I narrowed down your search to the best 17 science activities for kids.
Why science is important for kids
Science is just the start of the discovery of the world a child lives in. Here is just a sample of skills learned with hands-on Science lessons:
- applying mathematical reasoning
- communication
- critical thinking
- developing awareness of self
- discovery
- fact vs. opinion
- predication
- problem-solving
RELATED: Looking for ways to incorporate more science at home? Here are my favorite STEM toys for kids.
What is a plant maze?
For this science lesson, my five and six-year-olds created a plant maze. They planned the maze design and knew that the top needed to include a hole for sunlight.
The objective was to test if the bean plant reached the sunlight. Sounds fun, doesn’t it? The boys were all about this Science project. Add it to our list of 51 spring activities for kids pronto!
Let’s talk about teamwork!
One of my children works better listening to ideas than the other. (he may or may not be more like his dad)
Again. This is why we need to set aside the textbook and dive into Science activities that encourage problem-solving and honoring ideas that may not be our own. Kindergarteners and children of all ages need hands-on activities!
With everyone at home, I also found this a great way to explore social and emotional learning and build compassion for others. It’s a win/win; yes, we have some work to do.
RELATED: Plants, seeds, oh my! This spring book list for kids makes a fun addition as you wait for the plant to grow.
Let kids take the lead with their learning.
It would be a disservice to your kids if I shared step-by-step directions for the plant maze. Instead, invite your child to discuss what materials they will need and how to put it together.
As my children worked, I overheard their plan:
- Where will the hatches go?
- Will the plant make it out of the secret pathway?
- What does a plant need to grow?
A simple science prompt engaged my little learners to explore more than the task. This activity stirred up a GIANT unit of plant study that I am here for. Thanks to these hands-on science activities, I am also fully invested in learning more about plants. I found this article on the benefits of starting science education early informative.
The second time around, teamwork was stronger, and the boys worked even better together.
After another conversation, they decided to add a second layer to test! Now, we wait and see how our plant continues to follow the sunlight.
Will it make it to the top of the plant maze? Only time will tell.
We even got some new plant books to investigate further! These books about plant life have added more value to our conversations and sparked even more connections!
Another plant maze option
Perhaps you think this idea is fun but would like to purchase one to explore first. I found another way to build a plant maze and home; it is on Amazon.
Grow-A-Maze
Here is an alternative to cardboard boxes and tape that you can experiment with or compare and see which plant grows the fastest.
9 plant books for kids
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3 More Nature Activities for Kids
Does your child enjoy the outdoors? Here are three more nature activities for kids to explore leaves, plants, and our outdoor environment.
- Mystery Leaf Rubbings – Nature rubbings require only a few supplies. Chances are, you already have the supplies you need!
- Nature Sensory Hunt – Grab the cardboard and contact paper for a glorious nature collage.
- Nature Murals – Have an older child spending time at home? Invite them to create a nature collage out of items they find outside.
FAQ
Toddlers and preschoolers are curious little beings. Their natural desire to explore everything around them is important to a child’s growth and development. A couple of years ago, I noticed my preschooler started to show an increased interest in the seasons, weather and changes around him. I took his lead and began offering him some simple play-based science activities for preschoolers to encourage his interest.
A plant maze is a structure built with twists and turns to experiment with what plants need to grow.
Share this post with your child and invite them to share their thoughts about the plant maze. Next, invite your child to make a list of supplies to make their plant maze. Allow your child to lead the design of the plant maze. Finally, add the plant and plant maze near a window and see what happens over the next few weeks.
