Physical Sciences for Kids: It Matters!

This summer I have been teaching chemistry to some high school students. While gathering information, I have been amazed at the books that are available to introduce chemistry concepts to very young children.

For example, All about Matter (Science Builders) by Mari Schuh introduces the three most common states of matter:  solid, liquid and gas, as well as explains what matter is in such a way that a preschooler could understand. Even more astounding, she does this all in only 151 words!

As you can see from the cover, it is illustrated with big, colorful and visually-interesting photographs.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Grade Level: Preschool – 1
Series: Science Builders
Paperback: 24 pages
Publisher: Pebble Plus (August 1, 2011)
ISBN-10: 142967105X
ISBN-13: 978-1429671057

I was also pleased to find The Solid Truth about Matter (LOL Physical Science) by Mark Weakland and illustrated by Bernice Lum for slightly older children.

The-solid-truth-about-matter

Books in the LOL Physical Science series are full of cartoons, jokes and funny asides. That doesn’t mean the science is less than serious, however. The concepts are there, the vocabulary is there, and the explanations are clear.

This book is perfectly tailored for reluctant readers. What better way to learn about the common states of matter than through the life cycle of a snowman (pg 19). Brilliant! (Although the reverse of going directly from solid to gas (sublimation) is actually more commonly known as desublimation or deposition.)

In any case The Solid Truth about Matter is a good, solid book to have on hand for science units.

Age Range: 8 – 10 years
Grade Level: 3 – 4
Publisher: Fact Finders (August 1, 2012)
ISBN-10: 1429693029
ISBN-13: 978-1429693028

popular-chemistry-books-for-kids

Want more? Try our growing list of popular chemistry books for kids.

Disclosures:  These books were provided by the publisher for review purposes. I am an affiliate with Amazon so I can provide you with cover images and links to more information about books and products. As you probably are aware, if you click through the highlighted title link and purchase a product, I will receive a very small commission, at not extra cost to you. Any proceeds help defray the costs of hosting and maintaining this website.

Nonfiction Monday is a blogging celebration of nonfiction books for kids. Join us at the Nonfiction Monday blog.