Hello, dear families! Today, our K2 and K3 classrooms had a visit that was nothing short of magical. A feathery little friend—a one-month-old cockatiel—joined us for a memorable morning, bringing smiles and wonder to everyone’s faces.

This wasn’t just any visit; it was a hands-on learning adventure. Our young learners had the opportunity to get up close and personal with this charming bird. They learned how to gently feed it, experiencing the joy of caring for another living being. The excitement in their eyes as the cockatiel pecked at the food in their tiny hands was truly heartwarming.

Petting the soft feathers of the cockatiel was a highlight, allowing the children to feel a new texture and connect more deeply with the bird. Their gentle touches were a testament to their empathy and curiosity about the natural world.

The bravery and trust between the children and the cockatiel were evident as some had the chance to hold the bird on their shoulders and even their heads! It was a scene filled with laughter and amazement, as the cockatiel calmly perched on them, making everyone feel like a pirate with a parrot companion.

This unique experience wasn’t just fun; it was educational. Our discussion included the cockatiel’s natural habitats, diet, and behavior, enriching our ongoing theme about birds. The children asked insightful questions, showing their engagement and eagerness to learn more.

Sharing this experience with the K3 class added to the joy, as our older friends shared their thoughts and showed kindness and care towards both the cockatiel and our younger K2 learners. It was a beautiful moment of cross-age learning and friendship.

As we said goodbye to our feathered visitor and moved on to lunch, the buzz of excitement continued. The children shared their favorite moments and what they learned, taking with them not just knowledge about cockatiels but also valuable lessons in compassion, curiosity, and the joy of discovery.

-Zachary