Science and Social Studies in The Creative Curriculum for Preschool

Science and social studies are essentially about the exploring the world around us. Young children are naturally curious about that world and are eager to explore topics that are relevant to their everyday lives. They have a keen interest in the earth, the natural environment, the way that other people live, the physical properties of objects, and the nature of living things.

To channel children's innate curiosity into meaningful content learning, The Creative Curriculum® for Preschool integrates learning through studies. Studies are in-depth investigations of universal topics that show children how to find answers to their questions through direct observation and experimentation.

This approach allows children to learn science and social studies content while developing skills in literacy, math, the arts, and technology. Studies support children's wonderful ability to become totally engaged in topics and activities that interest them, and they gently challenge children to extend their thinking to ever higher levels.

All you need is a good topic--one that generates excitement in your children and that has enough parts that can be investigated and explored. Need ideas? Our Study Starters series (described below) is a great way to get started.

The Creative Curriculum® Study Starters: A Step-by-Step Guide to Project-Based Investigations in Science and Social Studies

Our Study Starters guide teachers step-by-step through the process of planning and implementing meaningful learning experiences around a study topic. They help teachers identify children's questions, learn background information and vocabulary, organize and plan the environment, incorporate content skills and knowledge, and involve families. More experienced teachers can use Study Starters as a scaffold from which to create their own innovative experiences with children.

You can use Study Starters in your classroom to

  • fully engage children in meaningful firsthand investigations of topics relevant to their lives
  • promote content learning in science and social studies allowing children to build skills in literacy, mathematics, the arts, and technology
  • integrate all content areas throughout interest areas and daily routines
  • help children build on what is learned from one day to the next
  • develop long-term investigations based on children's interests

Study Starters are available as individual booklets or in complete sets. Those who purchase either of the complete sets will also receive the teacher's guide and a full-color binder for storing Study Starters and notes. Download "Balls," the first Study Starter, for free to get a head start using studies in your classroom.

The Creative Curriculum® Study Starters are available on a wide variety of topics.

Volume 1

  • Balls (free PDF)
  • Boxes
  • Rocks
  • Ants
  • Clothes
  • Flowers
  • Buildings
  • Study Starters Volume 1 Complete Set--Each complete set includes a Teacher's Guide that describes how Study Starters are organized and how to use them.

Volume 2

  • Chairs
  • Wheels
  • Water pipes
  • Exercise
  • Trash & Garbage
  • Shadows
  • Study Starters Volume 2 Complete Set--Each complete set includes a Teacher's Guide that describes how Study Starters are organized and how to use them.