Depending on the group, many of our young scientists have science notebooks where we've been practicing taking notes. This includes our word of the day and often incorporates illustrations, which young scientists are challenged to label for further understanding. The result... some absolutely amazing notes! But why is this important?
For children, and especially in science class, note-taking is a powerful tool for learning, creativity, and information retention. At the Kiddie Science Lab we've seen firsthand how teaching children to take notes—especially when it includes illustrations—can deepen their understanding of the topic at hand.
When children take notes, they actively process information. This is called active learning. Instead of passively listening, writing down key points forces the brain to focus and connect new ideas to what they already know. Research shows that this process improves retention and comprehension. For example, during a lesson on plant parts, students might draw a flower and label its parts while also jotting down why each part is important. This combination of writing and drawing helps cement the information in their minds.
During Kiddie Science workshops, note-taking goes a step further. Drawing diagrams, labeling parts, and sketching experiments taps into visual learning. Many students benefit from seeing information represented graphically, as it strengthens memory and makes abstract concepts tangible.
Note-taking is much more than copying down what’s on the board. It’s a personal tool for understanding, and our science notebooks become a keepsake of our learning. Here’s how we encourage effective note-taking:
Use of Science Journals
Each student has a dedicated notebook for class notes, experiment observations, and drawings.
Interactive Note-Taking
We model how to highlight key points, sketch diagrams, and use arrows or symbols to show connections.
Ownership of Notes
Kids choose their own format for note-taking. The key is finding what works for them.
How You Can Support Note-Taking at Home
Encourage Journaling
Have your child keep a science or observation journal at home. They can record interesting things they see, like the phases of the moon or backyard bugs.
Practice!
When your child talks about what they learned in class, ask them to sketch or write it down for you.
Celebrate Effort, Not Perfection
Notes don’t have to be neat! Encourage creativity and remind them it’s about understanding, not artistry.
Supply Tools
Provide colored pencils, highlighters, or even sticky notes to make note-taking fun.
In a world filled with distractions, note-taking is a skill that teaches kids to focus and absorb information. By practicing it in our science workshops, children build a foundation for lifelong learning.
When children take notes, they actively process information. This is called active learning. Instead of passively listening, writing down key points forces the brain to focus and connect new ideas to what they already know. Research shows that this process improves retention and comprehension. For example, during a lesson on plant parts, students might draw a flower and label its parts while also jotting down why each part is important. This combination of writing and drawing helps cement the information in their minds.
During Kiddie Science workshops, note-taking goes a step further. Drawing diagrams, labeling parts, and sketching experiments taps into visual learning. Many students benefit from seeing information represented graphically, as it strengthens memory and makes abstract concepts tangible.
Note-taking is much more than copying down what’s on the board. It’s a personal tool for understanding, and our science notebooks become a keepsake of our learning. Here’s how we encourage effective note-taking:
Use of Science Journals
Each student has a dedicated notebook for class notes, experiment observations, and drawings.
Interactive Note-Taking
We model how to highlight key points, sketch diagrams, and use arrows or symbols to show connections.
Ownership of Notes
Kids choose their own format for note-taking. The key is finding what works for them.
How You Can Support Note-Taking at Home
Encourage Journaling
Have your child keep a science or observation journal at home. They can record interesting things they see, like the phases of the moon or backyard bugs.
Practice!
When your child talks about what they learned in class, ask them to sketch or write it down for you.
Celebrate Effort, Not Perfection
Notes don’t have to be neat! Encourage creativity and remind them it’s about understanding, not artistry.
Supply Tools
Provide colored pencils, highlighters, or even sticky notes to make note-taking fun.
In a world filled with distractions, note-taking is a skill that teaches kids to focus and absorb information. By practicing it in our science workshops, children build a foundation for lifelong learning.
