Preschool Math and Science Center

Materials needed for the center are: a measuring cup set of the type used for cooking, a measuring spoon set, plastic cups and jars of varying sizes, turkey basters, tweezers, a scale that weighs ounces or kilograms, trays, vinyl paint smocks, paper towels, a plastic drop cloth, and two or three bowls of such materials as water, vegetable oil, sand, dried corn kernels, rice, beans, aquarium gravel, or small stones.

Plan for Successes by Preparing for Messes

Preschoolers are enthusiastic learners who don’t worry much about cleanup. So that both teachers and children will find this an enjoyable activity, a plastic tray for each child at the center helps keep messy materials contained. Placing a drop cloth, such as a plastic tablecloth, under the table protects floors and carpets. A handy roll of paper towels will make it easier for the children to wipe up spills quickly. As always when using water, extra clothing should be on hand for young scientists who get too wet. Vinyl paint smocks can be used to help keep the children dry.

Arrange Materials Within Easy Reach

Bowls of materials and the measuring equipment should be arranged in the center of the table so that all children have access to them. Despite efforts to keep materials available to all, young children will tend to hoard them. Teachers can minimize conflicts over materials by providing plenty of things to measure with and substances to measure, as well as by limiting the number of children using the center at one time.

Math, Science, and Language Concepts

Math concepts for this activity include measuring capacity and weight, sorting and classifying materials, and using terms such as lighter, heavier, more, and less to compare attributes of things. Science concepts include exploring and comparing materials that provide many different sensory experiences, identifying intended purposes of measuring tools, predicting outcomes, using one or more of the senses to explore materials, and investigating natural laws, such as gravity, upon objects and events. Language concepts include acquisition of new vocabulary (weight, measurement, prediction, suction, etc.) through contextual understanding, discussion with teachers and peers, and following directions.

Vary Materials to Keep Interest High

This center can provide days of exploration when materials are swapped out frequently. Children will be eager to discover the properties of each new substance. Teachers should encourage children to help tidy and organize the center at clean-up time. New ideas for the center will be suggested to teachers by observing the children’s explorations.

Teachers Use Good Judgment in Selecting Materials

When planning activities, teachers should always consider the developmental level of the children in their care. Some three-year-olds use small objects safely, but some five-year-olds still place small objects in their noses, ears, or mouths. If the teacher is uncertain about the safe use of small objects, it is best to restrict this activity to using water, rice, sand, or smooth stones too large to be swallowed.

This activity will require the supervision of an adult, so it is best to use it at the same time as less teacher-intensive activities or to bring in a parent helper to assist. This provides a great opportunity for the parent to interact with the class as well as for the teacher to explain the connection between classroom activities and educational concepts.

Several Concepts and Skills in One ActivityThe Measuring Center features concepts in math, science, and language. The children practice skills such as pouring, scooping, and using small muscles to manipulate tweezers. Sharing the materials also encourages development of social skills. A Measuring Center gives teachers the opportunity to incorporate several educational topics into one activity.

Measuring Center

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