Encouraging Curiosity in Preschoolers
Quick Answer
Curiosity grows when children have time to explore, adults who wonder out loud, and questions that don't have one right answer. Take wonder walks, ask "What do you notice?", follow your child's interests, and let them touch, test and try things safely.
What it looks like by age
- 3
Age 3
Explores by touching, tasting and repeating actions.
- 4–5
Age 4–5
Asks questions and loves hands-on experiments.
- 6–7
Age 6–7
Enjoys finding answers in books and simple investigations.
Why it happens
Curious children learn more because they want to understand. Adults who model wonder and allow exploration keep curiosity strong.
What to say
"What do you notice?"
"I wonder what would happen if…"
"How could we find out?"
"Tell me more about that!"
Instead of… try…
Tap a card to flip it.
Try it together
At home
20 minWonder Walk
In the classroom
15 minMystery Box
☀️ Sunny's Shine Challenge
Take one 20-minute wonder walk with your child this week.
Questions parents and teachers ask
How do I make my child more curious?
Follow their interests, ask open-ended questions and give time to explore.
Is curiosity important for learning?
Yes. Curious children are more motivated and engaged learners.
Sunny says
“I wonder, wonder, wonder! What will we discover today?”
Related skills
- Wonder
When Your Child Asks "Why?" All the Time
Constant "why" questions are a sign of a growing, curious brain, peaking around ages 3 to 5.
Ages 3–6New - Wonder
Wonder Questions for Kids
Wonder questions are open-ended questions that invite kids to think, imagine and explore — like "Why do you think leaves change color?" or "What would happen if animals could talk?" Use them at dinner, in the car or at morning meeting, and let every answer be welcome.
Ages 4–7New - Shine
Growth Mindset Activities for Kindergarten
Growth mindset activities teach young children that their brains grow with practice.
Ages 4–7New