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You're Never Too Young to Explore with Zula Patrol
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Children's television has evolved over the past few decades to include countless shows focusing on literacy, friendship and social values, but what about science? Even with so many programs to choose from, there seems to be a dearth of entertaining shows that introduce young children to the wonders of scientific discovery.
But wait ... it's Zula Patrol to the rescue! Geared toward children from pre-kindergarten through second grade, Zula Patrol is an engaging series that features adorable animated aliens who explore the universe and the wonderful world of science.
Making Science Accessible
"I thought it would be great to have a show that really teaches science concepts to young children," says Zula Patrol creator Deborah Manchester, Ph.D. "Over the last 30 years there's been such a de-emphasis on science and science education and people are just starting to realize how it's (negatively) affecting our economy and global competitiveness. Young children are natural explorers and natural scientists. They love learning these new concepts and big words like metamorphosis and photosynthesis. They just love it!"
Manchester has recruited an impressive team of scientists and science educators to develop the shows' concepts, focusing on basic science that's easily accessible to young children but also helps them develop a solid foundation to build on as they get older.
"We chose evaporation and condensation, for instance, because these are things kids can actually see," explains Manchester. "You see water, then all of sudden the water's gone. What happens? We try to make sure they understand it's not magic. We explain the actual process of what happens to the water molecules and how temperature affects them and that sort of thing." The engaging characters and colorful animation are ideal for illustrating basic science concepts and for holding young children's attention, she adds.
Extending the Experience
In addition to the television program, which has been broadcast on PBS since 2005 and will begin airing on NBC as well beginning in July 2008, the Zula team has created a number of educational programs and products that expand upon the show's lessons.
Science Kits: Zula science kits encourage children to explore science in their own homes, backyards and neighborhoods. With The Backyard Explorer Kit, kids can create their own sundial and worm hotel along with other hands-on activities. The Astronaut Training Kit lets them train to be astronauts, and the Galaxy Explorer Kit takes them on a space adventure they'll never forget. Content for each kit is based on the National Association for the Education of Young Children's curriculum criteria for pre-kindergarten and the National Science Education Standards for kindergarten through fourth grade. Watch for new kits, including an expanded series of Backyard Science Kits, coming out in early 2009.
Reading Incentive Program: "Science literacy and literacy in general are huge issues," says Manchester, "so we have a reading incentive program that allows kids to develop their reading skills at their own pace." Children earn iron-on patches for reading -- or being read to, for very young children -- competing only with themselves as they advance through the different levels. For each level kids can earn several patches that form one of the show's characters when pieced together like a puzzle. Sign up online to participate.
Storybooks and Toys: Zula Patrol storybooks and plush toys are another great way to combine science fun with early reading and imaginative play.
Museum Exhibits: The Zula team has developed a museum exhibit and dome theater movie introducing young children to the science of weather.
Website: The Zula website features a mother lode of activities, games, videos, a teacher's corner, broadcast schedules and more.
What's Next for Zula Patrol?
In addition to the show being picked up by NBC and the development of a new series of Backyard Science Kits, Manchester is very excited about a partnership with IBM to develop Zula World, an online educational gaming site for kids with entertaining games that teach math and science. IBM is also developing a Zula World kiosk for Disney World's Epcot Center.
Zula Patrol has generated a great deal of interest from educators and parents across the country for its innovative approach, exceptional writing, and commitment to scientific integrity.
"There's been an incredible void," says Manchester of the show's remarkable success, "a huge need for science education materials for this young age group."
"We put a lot of time into developing the materials so it's not threatening to teachers or parents because we're educating a lot of these folks along with the kids," she adds. "It's just fun, which is how we want people to see science."
At DiscoverThis.com, we know science is fun for all ages and we're thrilled to help you encourage your kids' early scientific exploration with Zula Patrol science kits, storybooks, DVDs and toys. We love those alien explorers and we think you will, too!
Home > Resources for our Science Kits > Articles on Science Learning and Science Kits > You're Never Too Young to Explore with Zula Patrol
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