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Fine Arts and Science - Exploring Trees

Spring is in the air and with it comes budding and blossoming all around. Following spring break, we heard many stories from the children about how the trees around them were changing. In order to learn more about the topic, we brought nature to the classroom and the classroom to nature. Through tracing, art, circle time, observation of trees in our community and a field trip to the Nature Park, the children explored and learned lots. Here are some snapshots of the fun we had:

In the Classroom




The children completed this puzzle after talking
about the parts of a tree at circle time.


 They also enjoyed tracing leaves.


After tracing the leaves, the children noted the various parts.


 Caleb, inspired by the tree puzzle, drew his own tree!


 We brought cherry blossoms in for kids to look at during art.


 Madeleine presented us with her inspiring interpretation!


Exploring Trees in Our Community




On our walk around the neighborhood we saw many
 trees with no leaves...
...in one of which we discovered a nest!


 
 

 
We also encountered some budding cherry blossom trees and the children had a great time climbing one of them!

 
 

Nature Park Field Trip


At the Nature Park, the children got to learn about bees and other animals with a park guide. They were also able to ask questions and have a closer look at various animals.



 We learned about how bees use pollen to make nectar.
 
 
The kids pretended to be bees by collecting pollen with droppers. 


The children were brave enough to touch the garter snake


And were fascinated by the see-through busy beehive.


 




Outside, the kids were able to view turtles from afar and various leaves up close with a magnifying glass.

 
 

The children got to collect the bugs they found along the way.


 They ran down the trail looking for more animals.

Throughout the day the children enjoyed playing in the sun, listening to the constant chirping of the birds and taking in the fresh air. Our field trip was best summarized by Madeleine who said: “It seems like we are really in the forest! It’s so peaceful and beautiful…”
 

We are looking forward to more nature exploration between now and the end of the school year. To enhance the children’s learning about trees and what trees give us, we will be reading the book The Giving Tree next week in circle time. It is one of my all-time favorite classics and I look forward to sharing it with the class!






With warm spring greetings,
 
~Teacher Michelle


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