W

hen a child makes a claim, the fastest way to test it isn’t debate—it’s observation. “This water is clean,” they might say. “Are you sure?” you ask. “Let’s test it.” These moments shift them from belief to investigation. Instead of defending guesses, they gather evidence. That mindset—look closer, check again, find out—teaches more than any lecture. It’s not just scientific. It’s rational. It shows them that truth isn’t decided by who speaks louder—but by what holds up under scrutiny.

One day, my son claimed the backyard hose water was “perfectly clean.” Instead of correcting him, I asked, “Want to find out?” We gathered a cup, a flashlight, and a filter. We held the water to the light. “Whoa,” he said, spotting tiny specks. We tried again with water from the kitchen. Fewer specks, less glare. That experiment—casual, quiet—stuck with him. Now when he makes a claim, he looks for ways to test it. That habit began not in school, but in the yard.

To nurture this approach, look for small claims they make: “It’s faster this way,” “This plant is healthy,” “That’s louder.” Don’t correct—invite proof. Say, “Let’s test it,” and walk with them through the evidence. You’re not just building science skills. You’re showing them how to think with their eyes open.

TIPS

• Ask “How could we find out?” instead of giving answers.
• Treat tests as discoveries, not corrections.
• Praise the method—not just the result.

ACTIVITIES

• Speed Test: “Which toy car is faster?” Set up ramps and measure.
• Water Clarity Test: Compare water sources using a flashlight or filter.
• Noise Challenge: Test which sounds travel farther outside or in the house.