Young children love to explore water, experiment with objects, and ask big questions about how the world works. At Lil’ People’s World Early Learning Centers, we encourage curiosity through hands-on science investigations like the classic “What Floats? What Sinks?” activity. This fun experiment introduces STEM learning in a way that is exciting, visual, and easy for young learners to understand.
For families searching for high-quality childcare, preschool, and pre-K programs in Bellevue and nearby Eastside communities, inquiry-based science activities help children develop critical thinking, observation skills, and confidence in learning.
Why Inquiry-Based Learning Matters in Pre-K
Inquiry-based learning allows children to ask questions, make predictions, and discover answers through experimentation. Instead of simply telling children how something works, teachers guide them through the process of investigation.
Science inquiries help children develop:
- Curiosity about the world
- Observation and reasoning skills
- Early scientific thinking
- Problem-solving abilities
- Confidence in asking questions
These experiences align with the Creative Curriculum, which encourages hands-on exploration and discovery.
The Classic Experiment: What Floats and What Sinks?
One of the most engaging science activities for pre-K children involves testing different objects in water to see whether they float or sink.
In this activity, children place various objects into a water container and observe what happens.
Common items used in the experiment may include:
- Wooden blocks
- Small plastic toys
- Metal spoons
- Leaves or sticks
- Rubber balls
- Stones or pebbles
Children watch carefully as each object is placed in water and begin to notice patterns about which items float and which sink.
Making Predictions Like Young Scientists
Before placing objects in the water, teachers encourage children to make predictions.
Teachers may ask questions such as:
- Do you think this object will float or sink?
- Why do you think that will happen?
- What do you notice about the object’s size or weight?
Making predictions helps children practice scientific thinking and reasoning, even before they see the results.
Observing and Recording Results
After each object is tested, children talk about what happened and compare their predictions with the results.
Teachers may help children:
- Sort objects into “float” and “sink” groups
- Record results on a classroom chart
- Compare objects by size, weight, or material
- Discuss why certain items behave differently in water
These activities introduce early math and science concepts like sorting, classification, and observation.
Expanding the Experiment With Creative Exploration
Teachers often extend the activity by adding new challenges and experiments.
Children might explore:
- Which objects float best
- How shape affects floating
- Whether large objects always sink
- How different materials react in water
Some classrooms even invite children to build small boats from blocks or craft materials and test whether they float.
These experiments encourage creativity and engineering thinking.
How the Creative Curriculum Supports STEM Discovery
At Lil’ People’s World, our programs follow the research-based Creative Curriculum, which emphasizes exploration, discussion, and hands-on learning.
Science inquiries like floating and sinking help children:
- Ask questions and test ideas
- Explore cause-and-effect relationships
- Practice problem-solving
- Develop communication skills during group discussions
- Build confidence as learners
These experiences support kindergarten readiness and lifelong curiosity.
Early Learning Programs That Encourage Scientific Thinking
Science exploration is introduced across all of our early learning programs.
Infant Care
Infants begin exploring cause and effect by watching objects move and interacting with sensory materials.
Toddler Programs
Toddlers enjoy simple experiments with water, sand, and everyday objects.
Preschool and Pre-K
Preschool and pre-K classrooms include STEM discovery centers where children test ideas, explore materials, and investigate scientific questions.
Before and After School Care
School-age programs extend STEM learning through hands-on projects and enrichment activities.
Creating a Safe and Inspiring Learning Environment
Parents searching for the best preschool or childcare center in Bellevue, North Seattle, or Kirkland want a safe environment where children can explore and learn confidently.
At Lil’ People’s World, we provide:
- Clean and safe classrooms designed for early learners
- Licensed and insured childcare facilities
- Experienced early childhood educators
- Low teacher-to-child ratios for personalized support
- Consistent communication with families
Our classrooms encourage curiosity while ensuring children are supported every step of the way.
What Makes Lil’ People’s World Different
Families across North Seattle, Bellevue, and Kirkland trust Lil’ People’s World because of our commitment to meaningful early education.
Our centers offer:
- Family-owned childcare programs serving the community since 1994
- Research-based Creative Curriculum programs
- Experienced and caring teachers
- Strong partnerships with families
- Multiple convenient locations for busy parents
We believe that curiosity and exploration are the foundation of lifelong learning.
Our Enrollment Process
Getting started with Lil’ People’s World is simple and family-friendly.
1. Schedule a Tour or Consultation
Families can visit our classrooms or schedule a virtual tour to learn more about our programs.
2. Enrollment and Onboarding
Our team guides families through the enrollment process and orientation.
3. Individualized Learning Plans
Each child receives developmentally appropriate learning experiences.
4. Daily Updates for Families
Parents receive regular updates about their child’s activities and development.
5. Ongoing Development Assessments
Teachers monitor progress and adjust learning experiences to support growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a floating and sinking experiment for preschoolers?
It is a hands-on science activity where children place different objects in water to see whether they float or sink.
What do children learn from this experiment?
Children learn observation skills, prediction, classification, and early science concepts such as buoyancy and material differences.
Why are science experiments important in pre-K?
Science experiments encourage curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving while helping children understand how the world works.
Does Lil’ People’s World include STEM learning in pre-K programs?
Yes. Our Creative Curriculum includes hands-on STEM activities, science experiments, and discovery centers that encourage exploration.
Encouraging Curiosity Through Science
Simple experiments like “What Floats? What Sinks?” help children see that science is all around them. By asking questions, making predictions, and testing ideas, young learners begin developing the curiosity and confidence that support future learning.
For families searching for trusted childcare, preschool, infant care, toddler programs, pre-K, and early learning centers in North Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, and nearby Eastside communities, Lil’ People’s World provides a nurturing environment where children thrive.
