Springtime in the Younger Toddler Classroom: Exploring Birds

Over the course of the spring, our toddler teachers have found a variety of ways to explore the world of birds with our youngest two-year olds. In addition to taking birding walks, the younger toddlers have also painted pictures of birds, made binoculars to view birds, and read books about birds. In addition, they have had the opportunity to meet many birds, including Paloma the Dove, Blinkin the Eastern Screech Owl, and Olive the Cockatiel. The children were especially delighted with Olive’s head bobbing and vocalizations. In their efforts to communicate, and perhaps welcome her to their classroom, the toddlers shared pictures of the birds that they were studying.

When children study and explore topics that interest them, it increases their engagement and motivation, encourages them to express their own theories and perceptions, enables them to practice and master new skills, and expands their understanding and knowledge of the world.