Science
Does that sound like you? Lots of parents leave science education strictly to the schools, often fearful that their limited knowledge might do more harm than good.
In truth, though, all of us can be very helpful to our kids. Science is more than facts and figures -- it's a way of thinking that is a basic to our modern way of life. We all use observation, experimentation, and analysis in our day to day lives, so we all have some familiarity with essential scientific skills -- and we can help our children acquire those skills as well.
Science is not something mysterious. Being "scientific" involves being curious, asking how things happen, and learning how to find the answers. Curiosity is natural to children, but they need help understanding how to make sense of what they see. All we need is a willingness to observe and learn with them, and, above all, to make an effort and take the time to nurture their natural curiosity.
We should encourage our children to tell us their ideas and listen to their explanations. Being listened to will help them to gain confidence in their thinking and to develop their skills and interest in science. Listening helps us to determine just what children know and don't know. (It also helps the child figure out what he or she knows.)
If we can't answer all of our children's questions, that's all right-- no one has all the answers, not even scientists. The library, or even the dictionary, can help -- and we should remember that children don't need lengthy, detailed answers to all of their questions.
Even when you know the answer to a question, it's good to try a simple experiment whenever possible. Children, especially younger ones, learn science best and understand scientific ideas better if they are able to investigate and experiment. Hands-on science can also help children think critically and gain confidence in their own ability to solve problems.
You may not think of it as science, when a child asks "How long 'till we get there?" on the way to grandma's, but measurement is an important scientific skill. How much better is soap and water than water alone? Why do shadows get shorter and longer during the course of a day? Our lives are full of opportunities to apply scientific reasoning and scientific method, but we have to remember to use those opportunities! Why not start today?