This is the first in-depth look at the important connections between the arts and science specifically for early childhood education (pre-K–3rd grade). Highlighting their many commonalities, such as the processes involved in creative problem solving, the author draws on what we can learn from Leonardo da Vinci as the supreme artist-scientist. Every chapter begins with a vignette of Leonardo and relates his thinking to the development of children’s ideas in the arts and STEM (STEAM). This fresh look at the interdisciplinary connections of the arts and science offers early childhood teachers and administrators a spectrum of tools for connecting the creative arts (art, movement, drama, and music) to the STEM movement, 21st-century skills, and developmentally appropriate practice. Book Features: Promotes a more vigorous, inclusive, and diverse early childhood curriculum needed for the 21st century. - Helps teachers, parents, and administrators make connections between art and science. - Examines the connection of the arts to the Next Generation Science Standards (2013) through the Crosscutting Interdisciplinary Concepts. - Incorporates Reggio Emilia practices and includes examples from a Reggio preschool classroom. “Readers will enjoy the useful index, recommended resources, and Pollman's strategy of introducing each section with experiences from the life and time of Leonardo DaVinci that creatively draw the reader into practical understanding and application of the arts in science education.” ― Science and Children “Mary Jo Pollman presents a coherent, well-researched argument for replacing meaningless activities with engaging creative art and STEM experiences, which have the potential to become cohesive, integrated adventures in learning.” ―From the Foreword by Judy Harris Helm , president, Best Practices, Inc., author of Young Investigators, The Project Approach in the Early Years, Third Edition “Mary Jo has written for individuals who influence what happens in early childhood classrooms, and she understands the many connections between science and art. Her illustrative material and resources foster creativity and science learning with ready-to-use activities. The world is changing much faster now, and The Young Artist as Scientist arrives at the dawning of a new Renaissance in early childhood education!” ― Carrie Lynne Draper , founder & executive director, Readiness Learning Associates “At a time when early elementary curriculum is becoming increasingly narrow in focus, this timely book builds a compelling case for the importance of the arts, including how the arts align with, undergird, and support science, technology, engineering, and math. Woven throughout the book are historical perspectives, current research, critical concepts, and activity ideas that provide a rich rationale and immediate applicability to the classroom.” ― Julie Bullard , University of Montana Mary Jo Pollman is professor emerita of early childhood education at Metropolitan State University of Denver and Arts–STEM enrichment specialist.