The Young Artist as Scientist: What Can Leonardo Teach Us?

This is the first in-depth look at the important connections between the arts and science specifically for early childhood education (pre-K–3rd grade). Highlighting their many commonalities, such as the processes involved in creative problem solving, the author draws on what we can learn from Leonardo da Vinci as the supreme artist-scientist. Every chapter begins with a vignette of Leonardo and relates his thinking to the development of children’s ideas in the arts and STEM (STEAM). This fresh look at the interdisciplinary connections of the arts and science offers early childhood teachers and administrators a spectrum of tools for connecting the creative arts (art, movement, drama, and music) to the STEM movement, 21st-century skills, and developmentally appropriate practice.

“A coherent, well-researched argument for replacing meaningless activities with engaging creative art and STEM experiences.”
—From the Foreword by Judy Harris Helm, president, Best Practices, Inc.

“Mary Jo understands the many connections between science and art, and her materials and resources foster creativity and science learning with ready-to-use activities.”
—Carrie Lynne Draper, founder & executive director, Readiness Learning Associates

“Woven throughout the book are historical perspectives, current research, critical concepts, and activity ideas that provide a rich rationale and immediate applicability to the classroom.”
—Julie Bullard, University of Montana