Wonder Question Provocation

You set out a few simple materials, ask one open "I wonder what would happen if..." question, and then follow wherever your child's investigation goes. There is no right answer; the wondering and trying are the activity.

How to do it

1. Put a small set of related materials on the table (for example cups and water, or a ramp and a few balls, or paper and a fan).
2. Ask one open question that starts with "I wonder what would happen if..." tied to what is in front of you.
3. Wait. Let your child try their own idea first, even if it is not what you expected.
4. Follow their lead by asking "what did you notice?" and "what could we try next?" rather than telling them the answer.
5. Let the investigation run until interest fades, then leave the materials out for another round later if you like.

What you need

• Open ended materials
• Tray

Make it yours

Younger, 3-4 years: Use one very simple pair of materials and a single question. Older, 5-6 years: Let them write or draw their guess before testing, and compare it to what happened. Siblings: Each child gets their own small tray so they investigate side by side without competing.