In our recent inquiry into the natural world, the children have been captivated by the many ways animals build homes for their young. Through exploration, discussion, and creative play, they’ve embarked on a rich journey of discovery about nests — from the sky to the sea and everywhere in between.
It all began with a bird creating a nest in our playground. This curiosity led to group discussions, shared books, and real-life pictures of various animal nests — from birds’ nests in trees to turtle nests on sandy beaches and the hidden homes of snakes and alligators.
To extend their learning, we offered a variety of materials and experiences. First, the children worked collaboratively to construct nests using clay, twine, yarn, and string. As their fingers pressed and shaped the materials, they talked about how birds gather sticks and grasses. Some children focused on making round, cup-shaped nests, while others experimented with layering and coiling techniques. This activity fostered fine motor skills and encouraged thoughtful observation and reflection.
"This nest is soft like a bird would like!" one child commented, carefully wrapping yarn in a spiral. After exploring birds’ nests, we used clay and sand, we recreated turtle nests — shallow holes where sea turtles lay their eggs. The children shaped the nests and gently placed small clay eggs inside. They learned that mother turtles don’t stay with their eggs and that the sun helps them hatch. This sparked questions and deeper conversations:
"Do all turtles leave their babies?" After exploring turtles, Emily and the children watched an educational video on frogs, eggs and their nest. The children enjoyed when we recreated the frog nests using a large bin, water soap and straws. We previously learned that frogs create bubbles in the pond to protect their eggs. The children blew through straws creating bubbles in the water, then they proceeded to place tiny frogs into the bubbly water.
Our indoor sensory bin became a tactile treasure chest filled with model eggs, snakes, turtles, and alligators. Children sifted through sand and natural materials to discover hidden eggs, matching them with the animal they believed had laid them. This open-ended play encouraged sensory exploration, imaginative storytelling, and language development. "I found three turtle eggs! They were under the sand like at the beach!"
To support cognitive connections, we introduced a magnet board matching game. Children matched different types of nests with the animals that built them. They carefully examined each image, discussing features such as: materials, shape, and location.
"This nest is in the grass, so maybe it's a snake!"
"This one’s hanging in a tree — that’s for a bird!"
As the week progressed, we observed the children making meaningful connections and using new vocabulary. This nest inquiry has nurtured more than just an understanding of animals — it’s cultivated observation skills, scientific thinking, and a deeper appreciation for nature’s wonders.
