The addition of a few tiny red birds to our classroom provocations have spurred an intense interest in our flying friends. In connection with on our going observations of the sky and everything it contains, we offered a provocation in the light and shadow room of five red birds, a birdhouse and twig nests, all beneath a projection of birds making nests. As soon as the children saw the little birds, they instantly made a strong connection. The birds became an outlet for the children’s budding imaginations, carrying them from nest to nest, having conversations with them and offering them food.
“Tweet Tweet!”
After that provocation, we filled our week with bird sounds, dramatic play, the “Five little Birds song,” and bird inspired drawing and painting. Next week, we will continue to explore different types of birds, more nest making that challenges our scissor cutting skills, and an exploration of feathers with paint and clay.
The birds welcome us into the provocation.
We deepen the provocation by introducing lentils as “bird food” to feed the birds.
We try to touch the nest and the beak,
“Ouch! It’s pointy!”
“The bird is pecking in the hole,” explains Austin.
Discussing color, tails and beaks.
Inspired drawing throughout the week.
A species sheet inspires our outdoor bird painting.
Sometimes we paint right on top of the bird.
