Dandelions in the Wind

In this lesson, you will introduce young learners to STEM concepts such as velocity, speed and wind as they blow on dandelion puffs to disperse the seeds.  

Content Area:

Curiosity and Wonder
Earth, Water and Air
Force and Motion

Learning Goals:

This lesson will help toddlers and preschoolers meet the following educational standards:

  • Demonstrate curiosity about the world and begin to use the practices of science and engineering to answer questions and solve problems
  • Explore concepts and information about the physical, earth and life sciences
  • Understand important concepts and connections in science and engineering

Learning Targets:

After this lesson, toddlers and preschoolers should be more proficient at:

  • Developing foundational skills in the use of scientific practices such as observing, asking questions, solving problems and drawing conclusions
  • Expressing wonder and curiosity about their world by asking questions and solving problems
  • Planning and carrying out simple investigations
  • Exploring the effect of force on objects
  • Generating explanations and communicating ideas and/or conclusions about their investigations
toddler with sunflower

Dandelions in the Wind

Lesson plan for toddlers/preschoolers

Step 1: Gather materials.

  • A field full of dandelions with seed heads

Note: Small parts pose a choking hazard and are not appropriate for children age five or under. Be sure to choose lesson materials that meet safety requirements.

Step 2: Introduce activity.

  1. Turn your students loose in the field of dandelions and let the investigations begin!

Step 3: Engage children in lesson activities.

  1. Instruct the children to blow on the dandelion seed heads and see who can blow the farthest.
  2. Ask: “What happens if you hold the dandelion closer or farther from your lips?”
  3. Experiment with blowing fast and blowing slowly. Observe: “What changes?

Step 4: Vocabulary.

  • Dandelion: A plant with bright yellow blossoms that mature into round, fluffy seed heads
  • Flower: The part of a plant that blossoms and produces seeds that can become new plants
  • Stem: The main stalk of a plant that develops buds and shoots and usually grows above the ground
  • Seed: The small part of a flowering plant that grows into a new plant

Early Science Glossary

Step 5: Adapt lesson for toddlers or preschoolers.

Adapt Lesson for Toddlers
Toddlers may:
  • Be content to simply pick the dandelions and wave them in the wind
  • Practice blowing on dandelion seed heads as if they are blowing out birthday cake candles
Child care providers may:
  • Encourage the older children to show the younger children how to blow on the dandelion seed heads to disperse the dandelion seeds into the air
Adapt Lesson for Preschoolers
Preschoolers may:
  • Want and need ample time to explore, investigate and collaborate
Child care providers may:
  • Ask the older children to help their younger friends locate the dandelion seed heads and perfect their blowing techniques

Suggested Books

Music and Movement

The Dandelion Song” by Swingset Mamas (A great song with movement and sign language!)

Outdoor Connections

This activity is a great way to get kids moving, learning and enjoying life outside on warm spring days!

Web Resources

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