Butterflies in the Classroom
Every Spring, the classrooms in the center are able to bring in some type of animal or insect for the children to observe and learn about life cycles. This year, we have chosen caterpillars. Last week, we introduced the small caterpillars to the children. They enjoyed looking at them and a few of children were able to identify what they were. Over the weekend, they grew about three times their original size. The children looked at the caterpillars from a closer perspective, using magnifying glasses. The children were able to draw what they had observed. In the weeks to come, we will watch the caterpillars form their chrysalis and turn into butterflies; we will release them into the garden after having them in the classroom for a little while.
Along with the butterflies, the children will have the opportunity to investigate the life cycle of ducks. The Kindergartners currently have duck eggs in an incubator in their classroom. We looked at the eggs last week, before placing them into the incubator, and we will go down to visit them throughout the semester. In a couple of weeks, we will be able to take part in the candling of the duck eggs; this is where we place a bright light directly on the eggs in order to see the heartbeat and watch the ducks grow, like an ultrasound. We have done this in the past and are so excited to be able to share this experience with the children!
