As the air gets cooler and the days get shorter, it won’t be long before we start to see leaves fall off the trees in our neighborhood.
Down here int he South, it takes a little longer for us to see evidence of fall. But once it starts, it’s glorious.
Leaves are always one of my favorite early childhood themes. And they’re also wonderful opportunities to explore science with little ones.
Which is why I’m sharing this list of 15 simple leaf science activities for preschoolers!
These are simple (and engaging) leaf-themed science ideas for preschoolers and kindergartners.
And they also include sensory fun, math skills, and more!
See the full list below.
Be sure to check out our fun Fall Leaves Count and Match Game for more preschool learning inspiration!
15 Simple Leaf Science Activities for Preschoolers
As leaves fall off the trees, we get so many opportunities to explore science. We’re literally watching it happen right in front of us.
We can learn about leaf colors and how they change, compare types of leaves to learn about tree species, and much, much more.
Since preschoolers love to go outside, this is a wonderful time of year to explore nature with them.
So these simple leaf science ideas make learning about nature even easier!
If you decide to try any of these this year, I’d love to know which ones your students liked the most!
Simple Leaf Activities for Preschoolers
These simple leaf activities for preschoolers are a wonderful addition to a fall early learning unit!
There are hands-on ideas here for STEM construction, science experiments, observation activities, nature learning, and more!
Take these printable leaf identification flashcards out for a nature walk! Perfect for helping little ones learn the names of common leaf varieties!
Easy Fall Leaf Science Experiment: Exploring Colors & Chlorophyll with Kids -
Show preschoolers how chlorophyll affects the color of leaves with this simple experiment! This is also good for learning about colors.
Explore textures and states of matter with this preschool leaf science experiment. Also includes ideas for sensory play!
Examine how leaf textures change over time with this leaf exploration activity. Use the suggestions to add a few math concepts as well!
Salt Crystal Leaves Science Experiment and Fall STEM Activity for Kids
Make actual leaf art through this crystallization science experiment! Easy enough for little learners!
Watch leaves "eat" in real time with this simple science activity. Good for teaching children about the importance of water too!
Best fall simple science for kids - why do leaves change colour?
Show preschoolers how leaves change color with the seasons! This is a beautiful and easy color experiment for little ones.
Preserve leaves with preschoolers to see how leaves change after falling off trees. This is also good for exploring why leaves need tree roots to live.
Add a few art activities into your fall science unit with this STEAM idea. Show kids the veins in each leaf and then use those as an art activity!
You only need a few basic supplies to try this chromatography experiment. It's great for showing preschoolers the hidden colors in fall leaves!
Explore the patterns and textures of leaves with this simple leaf painting STEAM activity. Make prints and then examine how leaf vein patterns vary!
Collect lots of fall leaves, pinecones, and acorns and see how to keep for a memory book! This idea is perfect for a fall preschool table.
Make gorgeous leaf art with this absorption activity! And teach preschoolers how water affects paper too!
Show preschoolers how to make scientific observations with this leaf shapes examination activity! Little ones can collect leaves and compare them with others.
Add some STEM learning into your fall leaves unit with this challenge. Preschoolers will love turning leaves into structures that stand up!
How to Make a Leaf Garland
One of our favorite leaf science activities is making a leaf garland.
It’s such a simple way to explore how fall leaves change over time and add a little fall decor to the home.
Plus, kids can try their hand at making art patterns and exploring colors as they work.
See how to make a simple DIY Fall Leaf Garland with little ones for yourself!
Looking for more preschool fall learning ideas? Try some of these!
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