Children who show an interest in the world around them, particularly when it comes to things such as nature and technology, should be encouraged to develop that curiosity at home and at school. "Parents play a critical role in encouraging their children's interest in science," said Carol Pearson, who is the professional-development director for The Einstein Project in Green Bay, Wis. "Teachers play a role too -- it is really the partnership between the school and parents that really works the best to provide the environments for a student to learn about science."