At the Beach

• A trip to the beach is a wonderful place to learn about geology and natural science. Tide pools can be used to explain the effect of the moon's gravitational pull on the earth and the predictability of tides. Look for creatures left behind at low tide and discuss natural habitats. Gather shells along the shore to help understand the diversity of life forms. Talk about how sand is formed, and the power of the waves that can break rocks into tiny grains of sand. Introduce the concept of infinity and compare the grains of sand on the seashore with the number of stars in the sky.
  
  

In the Garden

• Learn about life cycles of plants and animals in the garden. Plant seeds and watch them grow and flower, then bear fruit and vegetables. Explain the basic concepts of photosynthesis and how plants need water and sunlight to grow. Describe how plants are good for the environment because they use carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, which is necessary to sustain life. Discuss the role of bees and introduce the concept of pollination and fertilization. Create a compost pile to teach about recycling and environmentally friendly agricultural practices. Find a caterpillar and introduce the concept of life phases and metamorphosis from caterpillar to chrysalis (cocoon) to butterfly.
  
  

On the Farm

• Visit a farm to learn about where our food comes from and all the people involved in producing it. For example, explain the steps involved in producing a box of cereal, from the role of the farmer in planting and harvesting the wheat and bringing it to market, and what happens then -- from making flour at the mill, adding ingredients and baking the cereal, making and filling the box and bringing it to the grocery store. Discuss what else comes from a farm: eggs, milk, dairy, meat and poultry, fruit and vegetables.
  
  

Math and Language Skills

• Have children relate the day's activities and create a story based on those events. Gather interesting stones, shells and other objects, then sort and count them to reinforce math skills. Practice learning the letters of the alphabet, sounds of vowels and consonants, sound patterns and other pre-reading skills. Look for objects that begin with the same letters or have similar sounds. Use snack time to teach math addition and subtraction with Cheerios, fish crackers and other treats.