Physical Science in the early elementary classroom is an idea whose time has come. Allowing time and space for free exploration, these activities reinforce the connection between children's play and science learning. Research conducted on outcomes indicates that children who participate in the program develop more problem-solving strategies and engage their senses more fully than children in control groups. Indeed the program empowers parents almost as markedly as children. The effect has been particularly powerful for low-income parents, who often feel alienated from the school environment.
Teachers can benefit just as dramatically.
But as they get their hands on Playtime is Science, they realize just how competent and capable they are. The funding mandate for Playtime is Science was not only to improve early childhood science education nationally but to help provide all children equal access to the study of science. For Educational Equity Concepts, effectiveness and equity are inseparable. All children need to learn early that they can act as scientists, writers, artists, and athletes. Science encourages all the children in the classroom to use the language and methods of science.