Children this age learn through doing, so provide many objects that they can use and manipulate to learn about different concepts. PBS Teachers suggests including items such as small, safe magnifying glasses, weights and scales, and magnets for children to use and experiment with. Include a variety of materials that children can weigh or test for magnetism in the center too.
One of the most powerful ways children can learn about the world around them is through their senses. Allow children time to see, touch, and smell things up close and make their own discoveries, but discourage tasting in this center. In a shallow plastic box or sensory table, include items from the outdoors such as leaves, pine cones or flowers. Walden University suggests including items like sea shells, sand and different types of rocks. In the winter, putting snow or ice in the box will allow children to observe different features they may not notice while playing outdoors.
One way to engage students in reading is to provide books related to subjects that interest them. Make a comfortable spot in the science center and provide books that children can read about animals, weather, dinosaurs or any other scientific subject. Make a spot for some paper, pencils, and crayons as well, as students may want to engage in drawing or writing about some of the subjects they are learning.
Keep the science center interesting by changing items in the area often. Also include items that would typically be considered toys but have scientific merit. Preschool Resource suggests items such as plastic dinosaurs or bottles that simulate tornadoes. Animal items, such as plastic figures, puppets or puzzles, will also catch a child's eye and entice him into the center.