ROSA'S BIG SUNFLOWER EXPERIMENT

Rosa models STEM learning for early childhood.

The scientific method—questioning, prediction, research, observation, and noting results—is demonstrated by Rosa and her friends Misha, Dawson, and Shala. Tools and terminology are mostly defined by pictures or context, but Dawson helpfully looks up the meaning of germinate in a book. The book covers each step of Rosa’s experiment, from planting the seed to examining the “minibeasts” the fully-grown flowers attract. The effect of light is noted when one plant is left in the dark and others are seen turning toward the window. Three other titles in the Rosa’s Workshop series introduce other friends: Jamil, Sadiq, Kezia, Gina, Mali, Roman, and Lottie; most are kids of color, like Rosa. Rosa plays with just three other children in each title—a reasonable size for a play group of active, curious, and eager-to-learn children. Her friends reflect a healthy diversity of gender, heritage, family, and disability. Shala uses a wrist splint, and Rosa and Roman wear glasses. Rosa’s Big Boat Experiment uses water play to explore density and flotation. Rosa’s Big Bridge Experiment highlights engineering and teamwork. After exploring the properties of yeast in Rosa’s Big Pizza Experiment, they share the results. The sturdy pages will stand up to handling when children use these titles as inspiration for their own hands-on projects. These will be useful in classrooms as well as for parents and caregivers thrust into the role of teacher by Covid.

An exemplary outing for little scientists.