GEMS News Flash
A new pilot project is being tested in Shasta County. Early Childhood Science (ECS) revolves around colorful tote bags filled with goodies such as rubber ants, illustrated books, and instructions for hands-on activities for children ages three to five. The program is a playful way to build understanding of basic science concepts in young children.
Themes for the totes include Ants; Tree Homes and Animals; Eggs Everywhere; and Penguins. These fun science-centered tote bags are designed to be explored at home with parents. Workshops were recently held in Redding with guided instruction for families by Lawrence Hall of Science staff. One important goal of the workshops was helping parents develop confidence in involving their children in science activities at home, and in their own ability to share science discovery and learning with their children.
Families, teachers and child care providers will be asked to provide feedback for the GEMS team to revise and improve the tote bags. After refinements were made, the tote bags were distributed to families in conjunction with Week of the Young Child events in Shasta County in April 2008. The ECS program is being developed in collaboration with the Shasta County Office of Education, Shasta Community College Early Childhood Education Center, Shasta Head Start, and Turtle Bay Exploration Park.
