Spring was in the air at SMART START! Our young learners fully embraced this wonderful season through nature and play based activities.
Read about some spring lessons below 🔎
🐛🦋🐞Experiencing the magic of metamorphosis is an annual favorite. SMART START scientists were eager to meet their classroom cup of caterpillars and ladybug larvae. Observations were made each school day as the insects spun into chrysalises or shed into pupas. After about two weeks, 5 butterflies and 10 ladybugs emerged and the life cycle stages were complete. The class was thrilled to hold the insects and release them into their nature classroom.
Future meteorologists gained insight into seasonal weather changes. Thermometers and wheels were used to determine the weekly forecast. Different types of clouds and their names were also discussed.
The abundance of crawling creatures are an exciting sign of spring. Students learned about an assortment of bugs through games, books, figurines, puppets, and more!
Paint, brushes, glitter and creativity were used to decorate spring themed wooden magnets.
Carefree play in the outdoor classroom is an essential aspect of our school routine. Whether they are pumping high on swings, engaging their senses in the sandbox, gliding down slides, playing cooperative games, popping bubbles or simply enjoying a snack, exercising and interacting with peers in fresh air benefits children in all areas of development.
Nurturing the classroom pets is a special component of our social-emotional curriculum. SMART START friends collect eggs from the chicken coop each week and share lots of cuddles and care with the animals.
Our group utilized their green thumbs to plant an assortment of fruits, vegetables and herbs in their garden. Everyone was excited for the return of fresh mint and dill from last year's crop. A few leaves were picked from each plant then were rinsed and chopped at the mud kitchen.
Discovering seasonal treasures in our nature classroom is a daily occurrence. Growing plants, blooming flowers, flying birds and most recently, a wild rabbit had baby bunnies under our slide and ladybug larvae on our play structures.
Thank you for reading all about spring at SMART START. Our young leaners are eager to welcome summer!
🐞SMART START🦋
