I like to focus on teaching empathy and caring for one another, especially when springtime rolls around. One way I like to do this is by introducing the students to my pet chickens and ducks. Each year I bring in fertile eggs and enjoy the many benefits of incubating my farm eggs and spending time caring for those that successfully hatch.
Some benefits of the program include:
*Bringing new ways of learning into the classroom
*Enrichment of the classroom experience
*Teaches responsibility
*brings increased sensitivity and awareness of the feelings and needs of others
*Students will see directly how their behaviour and actions affect others
*"Being around animals is extremely good for children," says Dr. Harvey Markovitch, pediatrician and editor of The Archives of Disease in Childhood. "They're good for morale and teach children about relationships and the needs of another living being – learning to care for a pet helps them to learn how to care for people." Studies show caring for pets aids in improving school attendance and teaching children about discoveryhealth.com
Do I suggest every teacher go out and invest in an incubator? Absolutely not. This isn't for everyone and should be well researched. There are many factors to be considered when looking into chicken and duck hatching. Some programs offer rentals but should be well researched to know when things don't go right and how to properly care for the animals during and after hatch. I am lucky to have a hobby farm where my animals are well cared for and transition to their forever home where students can follow their journey with frequent updates.
KatieC@NU
For more information:https://www.thehappychickencoop.com/the-complete-beginners-guide-to-hatching-eggs/
Reference:
https://www.petsintheclassroom.org/benefits-of-classroom-animals/
No comments:
Post a Comment