The Horizons class recently participated in the “Chick Hatching Experience with Nanny McCluckins”. 

This spring we received our eggs and incubator, and the kids enjoyed checking in on the eggs every morning to watch for progress. Watching and waiting for the eggs to hatch created conversations and connections between students who had not interacted before. After the chicks hatched and we were able to hold the chicks, students encouraged others who were a little nervous about the best way to hold the chicks. It was great to see the class come together around this activity. 

There was much discussion around farming and ethical practices regarding animal welfare in agriculture. The students asked many questions about where the chicks would go when we gave them back and whether it would be a free-range vs caged farm. This opportunity built an awareness about how our shopping habits can promote ethical treatment of animals. This knowledge can provide a greater sense of place in their community, as students see how their actions and learning are linked to the world around them.

Overall, it was a positive experience. The shared experience of caring for our fluffy little chicks helped to deepen and nurture meaningful relationships and a deeper understanding of their place in the world.