Does your child show a strong interest in science? Is he curious about nature or stars or medicine? If your child shows any interest in science, you should do everything you can to foster that passion. An interest in the scientific world may develop at a young age and it is important to keep such interest alive. Perhaps your child shows a special interest towards a particular science such as chemistry or physics. If so, you should delve into that area. Introduce reading materials (i.e. books, magazines, etc.), experiments, computer programs, and current research in that area to your child. However, it is important to make sure that your child does not get discouraged if he is laughed at for his scientific endeavors. There will always be people who refuse to take your child’s interests seriously but that should not get in the way of your child’s passion for science.
I. Expose your child to a wealth of scientific knowledge presented in both magazines and books. Your child may find such information very appealing. However, it is important to note that when you look at science books, you should try to avoid those books that are outdated. You can do this by checking the book’s publication date since a newer book will most likely contain more current theories. Also, you can look to see if the research that the book focuses upon has been completed within the last couple of years. The following are some amazing magazines and books suitable for your children with a passion for science:
II. Visits to museums are a great way to get your child more involved in science. Such visits are fun and educational. At museums, one can take part in hands-on experiments, learn about famous scientists, watch videos about the latest inventions, and do much more.
III. Science Competitions provide a wonderful chance for your child to delve into a particular area of research and then to show off his knowledge. Not only are research competitions fun, but they allow children to feel a sense of accomplishment, even if they don’t win. However, these competitions are especially rewarding if your child does in fact win, as there are many honors associated with winning. Some competitions worth noting for your child include:
IV. Teaching science to your home-schooled, gifted child is important. It doesn’t really matter what sequence you follow to study the sciences. If your child is eager to study a specific science first, then follow his lead. However, you should make sure to cover all of the sciences and expose him to the big four: physical science, biology, chemistry, and earth science.
V. Research programs may benefit your child and help to satisfy your child’s thirst for more scientific knowledge. Such programs may provide an enjoyable learning environment for your young passionate scientist.
VI. Working in a laboratory setting at a university is something that you definitely want your young scientist to engage in. However, you may have to wait some time before your child is old enough to work in a university lab, as researchers are very concerned with safety and may already have several graduate students working for them. There are many ways to become involved with science research on the university level:
Permission Statement
This article is provided as a service of the Davidson Institute for Talent Development, a 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to supporting profoundly gifted young people 18 and under. To learn more about the Davidson Institute’s programs, please visit www.DavidsonGifted.org.
The appearance of any information in the Davidson Institute's Database does not imply an endorsement by, or any affiliation with, the Davidson Institute. All information presented is for informational purposes only and is solely the opinion of and the responsibility of the author. Although reasonable effort is made to present accurate information, the Davidson Institute makes no guarantees of any kind, including as to accuracy or completeness. Use of such information is at the sole risk of the reader.