What do YOU want to be when you grow up?

August 25, 6:22 PMParenting ExaminerKaren Deerwester

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I want to be an astronaut! (source)

Patricia Phillips, space news examiner, got me thinking - how many of us are completely intimidated by science and science news.  It just doesn't make sense.  What is science if not curiosity and wonder?  But sure enough, many of us run like chickens (that'd be me running right up front) at the mention of the word.  Patricia's post on NASA Kids' Club reminded me how much FUN science is for kids, and for us if we allow ourselves to be curious again.  Ah, the beginner's mind!

What do YOU want to be when you grow up?  A firefighter...a mommy...an astronaut?  Kids connect with the idea of outer space, probably because they feel like aliens in a world of adults half the time anyway.  Space holds mystery and secrets for young imaginations.  It offers stories of adventure and the intrigue of the unknown.  It offers captivating answers to everyday phenomena like moonrise and sunset.  We spend a lot of time worrying about test scores and drilling facts to encourage excellence in students.  The next time you look at the limitless sky (my apologies, Patricia, if that isn't scientifically accurate) take a moment to observe, to question, or to wonder...

You may not have the answers but I suspect science starts with questions not with answers.  And who knows, the science fair this year might be a little more interesting.