This winter at Preschool Discovery Hour, our youngest scientists and their caregivers explored big ideas through hands-on play. Each month offered a new way to learn through movement, imagination, and discovery. 

December: Germ Detectives 

In December, our gallery transformed into a germ investigation lab! With support from Essentia Health, children explored how illnesses spread and how our bodies stay healthy. 

Instead of simply being told to wash their hands, children discovered why it matters. Through play, observation, and a little bit of “yuck factor,” handwashing became more than a rule—it became a meaningful discovery. 

Preschoolers explored: 

• Creating “germs” in petri dishes with playdough  
• Pepper Panic!—using soap to make germs scatter  
• Designing silly (and slightly gross!) germ monsters  
• Using “germ powder” and UV light to see how germs spread  
• …and more hands-on investigations into staying healthy!  

January: Snowflake Scientists

In January, we embraced the magic of winter. Children investigated how the weather shapes the world around us. They observed patterns in snow and ice, experimented with movement and air, and discovered how animals adapt to cold environments.

Kids explored: 

• Snowflake salt painting  
• Snowflake tinker trays  
• Snow-themed letter tracing  
• Animal camouflage in winter habitats  
• …and other chilly discoveries!  

February: Baking Up Science 

In February, learning turned into an imaginative bakery where science, math, and kindness came together. Children explored counting, sorting, patterns, and design through hands-on activities and role-play.

The experience also focused on empathy and connection. Families created Valentine’s cards for older community members, which Extra Balloons delivered with festive balloon bouquets, helping children see how small acts can make a big difference. 

Activities included: 

• Building cupcake balance towers  
• Coding “love bugs” using Bee-Bot robots  
• Creating Valentine’s cards for assisted living residents  
• Exploring scents in a bakery-inspired sensory activity  
• …and more sweet discoveries!  

Looking Ahead to Spring

In March, we’ll kick things off with Bugging Out!, where young scientists will shrink down to explore the tiny world of insects. From examining real specimens under microscopes to discovering where bugs live and how they help our world, it’s sure to be an adventure full of curiosity and wonder. 

To see what’s coming up, visit our Calendar of Events. We can’t wait to see you there! 

 

A special thank-you to Essentia Health for sponsoring Preschool Discovery Hour and helping bring these meaningful learning experiences to families across our community.