This book examines and discusses key aspects of early science education. It explores the theoretical foundations, the curricular requirements of the various German federal states, and the guidelines for implementing the educational field of science in teacher training and early childhood education degree programs. Furthermore, it empirically investigates the pedagogical conceptions, values, and beliefs of early childhood educators regarding early science education and discusses the findings within the broader context of science education as an educational domain.

Lena-Maria Kraska is an Academic Councillor and Deputy Director of the Institute of Childhood Education at Karlsruhe University of Education. Her research focuses on early science education and the AI-supported development of research competencies in childhood education degree programs.