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Learning about bugs and insects
With the arrival of Spring our tamariki at BestStart Bayfair have been involved in lots of planting and gardening. During these experiences the children discovered a variety of bugs and insects living in and around our rainbow garden. These creatures have fascinated our children and provided lots of opportunities for learning.
As a teaching team we have been busy creating provocations, planning interesting activities and locating relevant resources that will help the children explore this interest fully.
One way we extended on this learning was with a sensory play experience. The children were provided with some balls of ice. Inside each ice ball was a different toy insect. The children used coloured saltwater and pipettes to drop the salt water onto the ice. The drops cracked the ice and made it rough. By applying the salt water in the right spot over and over they were able to melt the ice and discover the insect inside. We then researched the insects and learnt more about them.
One of centre values is Wa Kainga. This value is all about having a positive connection to the natural word. Taking care of our rainbow garden and learning about the insects and bugs that live there supports this value.