How to Encourage Curiosity in Preschoolers: Simple Strategies to Support Early Learning and Exploration

Curiosity is at the heart of learning. When children are curious, they become active participants in their own discovery process—asking questions, exploring new ideas, and making meaningful connections. In preschool, children are naturally curious about the world around them. As educators and parents, one of the most valuable things we can do is nurture that curiosity and create an environment where it can thrive.

Here are some simple, effective ways to encourage curiosity in young learners both at home and in the classroom:

1. Ask Open-Ended Questions

One of the easiest and most powerful ways to spark curiosity is by asking open-ended questions. Unlike yes-or-no questions, open-ended ones encourage children to think more deeply and express their ideas freely.

For example:

• “What do you think will happen if we mix these two colors?”
• “Why do you think the leaves change colors?”
• “How do you think the caterpillar turns into a butterfly?”

These types of questions invite children to wonder, imagine, and explore different possibilities—building their problem-solving and critical-thinking skills along the way.

2. Create a Hands-On Learning Environment

Young children learn best through doing. By giving them opportunities to explore with their hands, they naturally begin to ask questions and test ideas.

Here are a few ways to promote hands-on exploration:

• Sensory bins with different textures and materials (sand, water, beans, etc.)
• Building blocks or magnetic tiles for constructing and designing
• Nature walks where children can collect leaves, rocks, or flowers to observe and discuss
• Science experiments like watching seeds grow or mixing baking soda and vinegar

When children are allowed to touch, manipulate, and experiment, their curiosity comes alive.

3. Follow Their Interests

Children are more motivated to learn when the topic is something they’re already interested in. Pay attention to what excites your child or students and build learning experiences around those interests.

If a child is fascinated by animals, you might:

• Read books about different animal habitats
• Visit a local zoo or watch short animal documentaries
• Set up a dramatic play area as a veterinarian’s office
• Create animal crafts or songs

By tapping into a child’s existing passions, you keep them engaged and encourage them to dig deeper into the subject matter.

4. Provide Time and Space for Exploration

Curiosity needs time to flourish. Rushing through activities or sticking to rigid routines can limit a child’s natural desire to explore.

Instead, give children:

• Time for free play, where they can lead their own learning
• Open-ended materials (like playdough, cardboard boxes, or art supplies) that invite creativity
• Outdoor time where they can run, dig, observe insects, and ask questions about nature

Allowing for unstructured exploration helps children develop a sense of wonder and ownership over their learning.

5. Model Curiosity Yourself

Children are always watching and learning from the adults around them. When you model curiosity, you show them that asking questions and seeking new knowledge is okay and exciting.

Try saying things like:

• “I wonder how this works—let’s find out together!”
• “That’s a great question. Let’s look it up.”
• “I’ve never seen that before. What do you think it is?”

This approach encourages lifelong learning and shows children that curiosity doesn’t stop when we grow up.

Fostering curiosity in young learners doesn’t require elaborate lessons or special tools—it just takes time, attention, and a willingness to explore alongside them. By asking thoughtful questions, following their interests, and providing hands-on opportunities, we can help preschoolers build a strong lifelong learning foundation.

For more ways to support your child’s development, visit the Les Enfants Preschool blog for ideas, inspiration, and expert insights!