Mrs. Whitmore’s Pre-K class at Willard Prior Elementary School recently experienced an unforgettable hands-on learning opportunity after bringing baby chicks into the classroom — and it’s safe to say the students absolutely loved every moment of it!

Thanks to the generosity of one of our district bus drivers, Lisa, a former student’s grandmother, and her friend Liz, the class was provided with fertilized eggs, baby chicks, and all of the supplies and equipment needed for the project. After spending a few exciting days in the classroom following their hatch, the chicks safely returned home with Lisa.

Throughout the experience, students learned all about the life cycle and care of chicks through real-world observation and interaction. They discovered that chicks take approximately 21 days to hatch, need food and water to survive, and must stay in the incubator until their feathers dry completely after hatching. Students also learned the difference between hens and roosters while practicing observation, patience, and responsibility.

Each morning, students eagerly rushed into the classroom to check on the chicks in the brooder, and taking them out to gently pet and observe quickly became everyone’s favorite part of the day. The chicks kept students entertained as they waddled around, tried escaping their bin, and showed off plenty of personality along the way!

Experiences like this help bring science to life for our youngest learners by encouraging curiosity, compassion, and hands-on discovery in a meaningful and memorable way. Mrs. Rougeau’s Pre-K class will also be participating in the exciting unit, and both Mrs. Whitmore and Lisa hope to continue the experience for students year after year!