It's not just classmates and teachers our Kindergarten students are getting to know; they're learning more each day about their class pets, Beardy (a bearded dragon) and Snowflake (a guinea pig). As part of the Reggio Emilia Inspired learning values that our Kindergarten classes follow, the classroom environment acts as the third teacher where children are collaborators who learn through interaction within their communities. When children interact with animals, they build the all-important senses of connection, empathy, and caring. As they learn how to care for and handle Beardy and Snowflake, they have been asking some great questions along the way:

What does Beardy like to eat?
Can Snowflake eat tomatoes?
How does Beardy drink water?
Why are Snowflake's eyes red?

On Thursday JK students also had an opportunity to meet Beardy! Stay tuned for updates about these cherished pets throughout the year.