Reimagining School Readiness: Liquid Measurement

by
Four containers with colorful lids

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education has become increasingly necessary to thrive in today’s world and therefore a national priority. Yet, a mistaken notion that complex thinking skills are beyond the ability of young children means that infants, toddlers & preschoolers aren’t always exposed to STEM concepts or activities during their early education. Children in informal care, such as with family, friends, and neighbors, may not experience the same scope of early educational experiences. Science and math are two areas that adult caregivers may not have as much confidence in. However, as a hub of
community-based learning, libraries are in the perfect position to share STEM concepts and activities with FFN and the young children in their care. By supplying libraries with the materials necessary to easily create play-based learning opportunities that focus on age- appropriate STEM concepts, the Colorado State Library hopes to increase opportunities for young children and their caregivers to engage with these topics.

Why focus on liquid measurement?

The ability to accurately observe, measure and use the resulting information is a basic competency at the root of many STEM skills. By encouraging young children to experiment with these concepts and incorporate their findings into their play, you are encouraging the development of this skill, as well as their creativity and initiative. Measuring liquids involves pouring and scooping actions, which support the development of fine motor skills needed for tool use like pencils, scissors, crayons, etc. in preschool children. Younger children will benefit from these same actions to develop the small motor skills needed for functional activities such as self-feeding.

Audience

This kit will allow library staff to present play-based, interactive programs on measurement for young children, ages 2 to 7. However, consideration should also be given to adult caregivers bringing the children to your programs. As you use this kit, be mindful of the ways in which you’re being a role model to FFN as you engage young children in STEM concepts by asking open-ended questions, encouraging experimentation, and normalizing failure.

Contents

  • Resource Kit binder
  • 5 colorful buckets
  • 2 one gallon jars with lids
  • 2 one quart jars with lids
  • 2 one pint jars with lids
  • 2 one cup jars with lids 
  • 2 measuring cup sets of five
  • 2 measuring spoon sets of five
  • Water beads 
  • 8 collapsible funnels
  • 8 red rubber funnels 
  • 5 water droppers 
  • 2 liquid 1 ¼  cup measuring cups
  • 2 liquid 2 cup measuring cups
  • 2 liquid 3 cup measuring cups
  • Books
    • Volume by Julie Murray 
    • Big Little Grande Pequeno by Leslie Patricelli 
    • 2 Lulu’s lemonade books by Barbara deRubertis
    • Me and the Measure of Things by Joan Sweeney 
    • Measuring Penny by Loreen Leedy

Resources