A new book has been published that represents a new way to think about science education for young children.

Based on the growing knowledge that even the youngest children are powerful thinkers and theory-makers, “Worms, Shadows, and Whirlpools” identifies important science inquiry skills and concepts appropriate for the very young. It uses the real-life experiences of teachers and children in HeadStart, kindergarten, day care, and preschool programs, and features teacher stories, photographs, and examples of children’s work in addition to teaching strategies.

“Ours is not a how-to book,” says author and researcher Karen Worth, project director at Education Development Center. “Instead, the book contains science content, lesson examples, and teaching strategies straight from the classroom. We also make the case — a strong case — for integrating science into the curriculum right from the start. It’s never to early to create a context for developing language, mathematical thinking, and social skills,” Worth said.

The book is designed for early childhood classroom teachers, teachers-to-be, and directors of early childhood centers. It also seeks to influence key decision makers who determine policies and guidelines that direct what goes on in early childhood classrooms.