Hands on learning
Sensory and tactile play. Multitude of art materials. Real examples of birds nests during a spring unit; ice play during the Arctic unit; sink and float and experiments to bring concepts to their level. Earth Day is just one example of all-school learning and participation. Books and activities build awareness on recycling and being kind to our planet. Learning gardening skills, plus the joy and pride in planting their own flowers. Having a successful experience with caterpillars to take care of and witness the process of metamorphosis within the classroom, then releasing them into the butterfly havens around church grounds.
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A Language Rich Environment
Storytime is an important staple of any day. Time to share, listen and engage - more than just a book. The Very Caterpillar might add an interactive flannel piece story. Snack of oranges, plums, cheese, watermelon - as the caterpillar eats in the story. A child could recreate the story by drawing their own version. A class might paint handprint caterpillars, tissue paper versions, or glued creations of pom pons that explore many creative expressions. Puzzles and butterfly match games are often added for play extension. The book Have you seen Birds? could have related Art, great exposure to language patterns and then extend topic to outside with real magnifying glasses or crafted “play” binoculars to see birds in the gardens or engage sense of hearing with the chirping so often greeting us in garden bush.