It’s the time of year where wildlife in the forest are beginning to prepare for the cooler months ahead. We are continuing to witness little creatures out and about during our class time: toads, millipedes, caterpillars, worms, snails, butterflies, spiders, and more. While it is tempting to catch these creatures, we are working collectively, as a class, to observe rather than collect and disturb what we find. We can learn so much about these wee beasties watching their behavior while moving freely. You can do the same with your child at home by asking questions like: Which way are they going? Do you think you they are interested in us? What do you think they might have eaten last? Do you think they are fully grown? These types of questions can help develop observational proficiency and critical thinking skills!

Seasonal fruits and veggies of the week included peaches, muscadines, pickled okra, sautéed button mushroom, and carrots from Deanna’s home garden. Not very many students were keen on the muscadines due to the tough skin and seeds. We’ll try them again soon with a “how to eat” demonstration :) The pickled okra was thoroughly enjoyed!

While we do ask that lovies and special items stay at home, we encourage students to bring books, craft materials, or tools to share at school if they so desire. Sunny was so excited to share rainbow scratch paper with classmates! It was a new material for a few friends and was very happily explored. Thank you!

William and his mom, Ginny, brought a very special treat to add to Friday’s snack: soft ginger cookies! While the class enjoyed the cookies, William shared details on how he baked them at home the night before. They were so delicious and everyone asked for seconds! Thank you!

Thank you to parents, Kristin and Marilyn, former AFK parent, Eric, and UGA intern, Cat, for helping us in the forest!