These parents are surprised as they observe our ladybug larvae, look at the insect documentation on the wall, or read a book about pigeons and learn new information alongside their child.
Today, excitement spread through the classroom. As each child entered the room ,they heard that our ladybug pupae were becoming adult ladybugs.
The ladybugs were so new that they had not yet turned red and their spots were faint. We looked closely using a magnifying glass.
Using permanent pen and watercolor, the children drew the head, thorax and abdomen, six legs, and antennae of the ladybug.
Over at our grow lamp, the seeds we planted just a week ago are growing tall.
One child noticed that some shoots have different color leaves. Soon, the whole class gathered round to observe. We discussed that we planted different kinds of seeds and they are growing into different plants. Soon it will be harvest time.
On our walk back from the park, Miss Santos pointed out a starling and her fledging following behind. The young starling would hop and flap its wings to try to keep up with its mother. Back in the classroom, several children drew the scene and we added two drawings to our Community Book. This book is a record of the important events of the year (in the eyes of three- and four-year-olds!) Take a look in our library to see more.
In our discussion about birds, we made a web of what we know (ovals) and added questions or information we weren't sure about (rectangles).
The children already know a lot but have some questions for an expert.
Are you an expert about birds? Have you owned a bird or enjoyed birdwatching? Would you be interested in visiting our classroom next week?
