It was another wonderful week in preschool, filled with curiosity, creativity, and so many sweet moments of discovery. This week, we studied birds, inspired by the children’s growing excitement for birdwatching on the playground. Their observations turned into meaningful conversations, questions, and hands-on learning experiences throughout our days.
This Turkey Vulture loves to sit here and watch us ladybugs play!
Upon entering the classroom, many children noticed the soft, beautiful sounds of birds chirping playing in the background. It created such a calm and welcoming environment, inviting them to settle in and start their day with a sense of peace and wonder. We also listened to various bird songs and specific bird sounds during our center times.
Our books this week were a bit hit! Are You My Mother by P.D. Eastman brought lots of giggles as the baby bird set off on a determined journey to find its mother, meeting a variety of animals and other things along the way. The children loved predicting what might happen next and were especially amused by the baby bird’s confusion as it asked each animal and thing if they were its mother. It also sparked thoughtful conversations about families, belonging, and how animals care for their young. Too Shy to Sing by Bonney Press was another favorite, telling the story of a little bird who struggles to find its voice. The children connected with the idea of feeling shy and celebrated as the bird slowly gained confidence. It opened the door for meaningful discussions about bravery, self-expression, and encouraging one another.
We explored where birds live, how they build their nests, and how they lay eggs. In our sensory bin, the children became little builders themselves, using soil, twigs, and crinkled natural paper to carefully construct their own nests. They thoughtfully placed soft pom-poms inside as eggs, often counting them or arranging them just so. Adding a birdhouse and small bird figure brought their play to life, and it was so fun to watch their imaginations take over as they cared for their “baby birds.”
At the Play-Doh table, the children used their hands and imaginations to create bird nests. They rolled, pinched, and shaped the dough into cozy nests, adding small eggs, tiny birds and even worms for feeding. Some included thoughtful details and textures, while others carefully arranged their eggs just right. It was a fun, hands-on way to build fine motor skills and spark creative storytelling.
In the art center, we traded traditional paintbrushes for feathers, which brought a whole new level of creativity and sensory exploration. The children experimented with swirling, dragging, and dabbing the feathers across their paper, noticing the different textures and patterns each movement created. Some made soft, wispy designs while others layered colors boldly — each piece was unique and beautiful.
We also incorporated some letter recognition practice in a playful way using an egg carton. Inside each egg was a letter, and the children worked to match it to its pair. This activity brought a mix of challenge and excitement — some children moved quickly through it, while others took their time problem solving — but everyone showed perseverance and pride in their efforts.
One of the highlights of the week was making bird feeders. Using natural pinecones and sun butter, the children carefully spread each layer, working hard to cover every surface. To keep everyone safe, we stuck with sun butter, and the children were thrilled with their creations. We told the children that once home, they could even roll their pinecones in birdseed and then hang them in a tree. We weren’t able to have the birdseed at school, because the bags I saw included disclosures regarding nuts — being produced in a facility which contained nuts.
Our grass heads have grown so much over the past couple of weeks, and it was finally time for haircuts! The children had an absolute blast trimming their grassy hair, and some even added bows and accessories, giving them lots of personality. Their laughter and creativity during this activity were truly delightful.
Our compost bins continue to be a source of fascination. Each day, we’ve been adding moisture and leftover food scraps, and the children love checking in on our worms. Watching them tunnel through the soil and transform the materials into rich, healthy compost has been such a meaningful, hands-on way to learn about nature and responsibility.
We also experienced something truly special this week as we observed the full lifecycle of our butterflies. After patiently watching them grow and change, we were able to release two butterflies on Thursday and two more today. The children watched in awe as they fluttered away, and there was a beautiful mix of excitement and gentle goodbyes. It was such a powerful, real-life moment of learning and wonder.
The rest of our time was filled with choice play — building with blocks and puzzles, engaging in dramatic play, and strengthening friendships through cooperative activities. It has been so rewarding to see how much their language, imagination, and social skills continue to grow.
As we wrap up this joyful week, we are so proud of all the learning, creativity, and kindness we’ve seen. These experiences — big and small — are helping to shape confident, curious little learners, and it truly is a privilege to watch it all unfold.
Our school year is coming to a close and we have some important events coming up. Please mark your calendars!
REMINDERS/UPCOMING EVENTS:
June 2nd - June 5th - SUMMER CAMP - Please remember to register your Ladybug! There is just 1 space left.
This coming Thursday and Friday (May 7th and 8th) - Parents- You are invited to pop in at drop-off time (between 8:50-9:15) on May 7th (TTh kids) or 8th (MWF kids) for Pastries with Parents. We will have snacks, photo ops, and gifts for you from your Ladybug. We are looking forward to celebrating YOU! *Note: We have Chapel on Thursday, May 7th, so will need to make sure we wrap up our celebration by 9:15. PLEASE JOIN US!
During our final week of school we will NOT be having lunch bunch. Pickup time will be 12:00 on Wednesday, May 20th.
On May 21st the T/Th Ladybugs will have their Last Day Celebration, and on May 22nd the MWF Ladybugs will have THEIR Last Day Celebration starting at 10:30am (this early time will help us avoid the heat a bit). Please join us on the playground to celebrate together! Children will be dismissed from the playground at the conclusion of our party. Cue tears.
Have a wonderful weekend with your sweet Ladybug!
Miss Lisa, Miss Phoenix, and Miss Jenn