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Asking Why?
Young children often ask the question “why?” Curiosity is a natural emotion. When children ask questions they are trying to learn more about the world around them. Help your child discover the answer.
INFANT:
Play with toys that have different sounds and features.
- At the start say: “Ready, set, go!”
- After playing with the toy, say: “I wonder what will happen next.”
TODDLER:
Walk around the neighborhood. Ask your child questions about what he sees. For example:
- How is the leaf on the ground different from the leaf on the tree?
- Are all petals on this flower the same size and color?
- How many legs does this bug have?
- How many colors can you see in this mud puddle?
PRESCHOOLER:
When your child asks a question, suggest ways to look for answers.
- Example: “I wonder about the stars at night too. Let’s try to find out more about it.”
- Then use nature, books from the library, the Internet, or an experiment to explore ideas and answers.
Adapted from materials developed and provided by Ready At Five (www.readyatfive.org).
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