The science in children’s books

DEC 01, 1968

An early education in physics should be initiated by the scientist who can offer an accurate and interesting description. When he leaves his laboratory, the author should remember he is wearing a new hat.

DOI: 10.1063/1.3034647

Mae Freeman

WHEN CHILDREN in the elementary grades begin to show an interest in the world around them, they eagerly look for books about air, magnets, atoms and gravity. Of course they do not yet realize that it is physics they are reading about, and this is a very good point at which to catch their interest and provoke their curiosity. It is also a vulnerable stage at which the youngster may flinch and back away, overwhelmed—a retreat that may have lasting effects.

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