Butterfly Lifecycle/ Metamorphosis

This spring, SMART START introduced the lifecycle of a butterfly. Our young learners experienced the science and magic of metamorphosis at school through an abundance of related lessons and hands-on, interactive activities. 

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📚To begin this unit, the class circled in their outdoor classroom for a story time. The classic tale, "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" by Eric Carle was read. We discussed the four stages of the butterfly lifecycle: egg, caterpillar, chrysalis and butterfly. Everyone was eager to witness this cycle firsthand in the coming weeks. 

🐛Students excitedly welcomed two cups of caterpillars (5 in each cup) into their classroom. Magnifying glasses were utilized to view these tiny creatures up close. Afterwards, all created a "Butterfly Observation Journal." 

🔍Classmates continued to document changes they observed such as the caterpillars' significant growth, silky webs forming around and the slow climbing to the top of the cups. At the end of two weeks, our class caterpillars spun themselves into chrysalides! The lids were removed from the cup and placed inside a butterfly garden enclosure. 

🦋Pupils patiently waited another two weeks for the completion of this lifecycle lesson. After great anticipation, 10 butterflies emerged! SMART START Scientists brought the butterfly garden outdoors to release into nature. Peers were in complete awe as they took turns holding the butterflies. The insects then flew away to continue the lifecycle in their natural habitat. 

🎵In addition, friends sang a "Butterfly Lifecycle" song to reinforce the subject matter. 

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⭐To recognize their enthusiasm and diligence throughout this process, each child received a "Butterfly Raising Certificate." 

Click here for resources to experience the butterfly lifecycle in your home or classroom

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Earth Day

    Friday, April 22nd is Earth Day. SMART START has participated in caring for the planet through our environmental focused curriculum. Our young learners have been engaging in hands-on, interactive lessons such as creating & constructing with reusable materials, planting & nurturing seeds, sorting & recycling items and more! It is essential to educate the next generation on the importance of preserving their natural surroundings. 

View Our Earth Day Activities Below! 

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Happy Easter

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Spring Into Learning

    Spring is in the air at SMART START! Our young learners have fully embraced the season through a variety of hands-on activities, interactive play with peers and experiencing the natural world around them. 

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🌱Spring studies commenced with a planting project. Each student received seeds, soil and a cup to begin the process of growing their very own green bean. In addition, some flowers were planted. SMART START Scientists have been diligently watering their plants, ensuring they are placed in sunlight and observing and documenting growth. 

A song was learned to reinforce the planting process. 

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This full circle learning experience promotes critical thinking, high self-esteem, patience and a sense of responsibility. All anticipate harvesting their crop later in the season!

⛅ Learning through play is an essential component of our core curriculum. Carefree classmates enjoy engaging with one another in their outdoor classroom. Whether they are swinging, sliding, running or climbing together, the children are developing social behaviors, improving their communicative skills, forming friendships and reaping the benefits of fresh air and exercise. 

🕮The group gathered for a seasonal storytime and discussion about signs of spring. 

🍃The class put on pith helmets and binoculars to prepare for a nature adventure. Eager expeditioners decorated bags then ventured outdoors to explore. Pinecones, rocks, sticks, leaves and moss were among the natures treasures discovered. Our class chickens even joined in the search!

🎨Artists selected one pinecone and one stick from their nature bags to paint. Glitter and colored sand were added for a finishing touch. 

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We hope you enjoyed reading all about our introduction to spring at SMART START!

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Women's History

March is Women's History Month. Our young learners honored this time by completing an "Influential Woman in History" project and presentation. 

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Saint Patrick's Day

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All About Teeth

February is Children's Dental Health Month! SMART START celebrated by incorporating enhanced oral hygiene activities into our everyday curriculum. 

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    Future dentists and dental hygienists explored various instruments used for optimal teeth cleaning. While exploring the displays, the class acquired knowledge on the topic. 

Here are a few facts we learned:

🦷A cavity is a tiny hole in a tooth

🦷Plaque is a sticky film that is unhealthy for teeth

🦷Brushing teeth twice per day in a circular motion removes plaque & prevents cavities

🦷Pictures of teeth taken inside the mouth are called X-Rays

🦷Eating and drinking too much sugar can cause cavities

🦷Foods such as fruits, vegetables and proteins keep teeth healthy

🦷Flossing daily cleans between the gums

  All engaged in an interactive pretend play exercise. Peers acted the part of dentist, hygienist or patient. This lesson allowed the opportunity for students to apply the subject matter in a hands-on, realistic fashion. 

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The group gathered in the outdoor classroom for a themed storytime and discussion. 

    To conclude this unit, a pediatric dental hygiene expert from Andover Pediatric Dentistry visited our school. This annual event consisted of an interesting and informative presentation regarding oral health and the role of a dentist. Classmates listened intently, asked thoughtful questions and eagerly shared all they had been learning.  

    Teaching about health and hygiene in early childhood education is essential. Early exposure to these topics promotes establishing healthy habits and overall wellness. This foundation will assist children throughout their development into and adulthood. 

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