Curiosity and wonder are at the heart of the desire to learn and the development of a love of learning that can last a lifetime. But what do curiosity and wonder look like in our classrooms? How can you drive learning through curiosity for preschoolers? What about infants and toddlers?

The Smithsonian Institution has so many resources for teachers to use to help to foster curiosity and wonder. This course will introduce you to some of our favorite strategies and ideas to help you foster curiosity and wonder in your classroom and help students Get a Head Start with the Smithsonian!

Course Information

• Start Date: Available on-demand
• Course Level: Beginner
• Target Audience: Education Staff
• Requirements/Prerequisites: None
• Course Meeting Times: None
• Completion Timeline/Duration: 45 Days

Course Includes

• Explore why curiosity and wonder are at the core of learning in early childhood. 
• Learn about ways to make your classroom environment a playground for curious minds.
• Discover a world of amazing resources from the Smithsonian Institution to inspire young learners.

Head Start Alignment

This course for teachers aligns closely with Head Start Early Learning Outcome Framework (ELOF). It provides strategies for promoting language development, social-emotional learning, and cognitive growth in the classroom. Educators gain tools for fostering literacy, empathy, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among students. We also emphasize the importance of family engagement in the learning process. By addressing these key areas, our course equips educators to meet Head Start standards effectively, nurturing the holistic development of their students.

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Course Author

Ann Caspari

Early Childhood Education Specialist
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Julia Smith

Museum and Early Learning Specialist Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center