Eggs-ellent learning opportunity delights Whitemarsh kindergarteners

Whitemarsh Elementary School kindergarteners had an “eggs-ellent” opportunity to learn about the life cycle of chickens by watching them hatch right in their classrooms.

The eggs were delivered to classrooms in late April and kept in an incubator, where students and teachers helped to turn the eggs to prevent hatchlings from sticking to the membrane of the shell and to promote circulation. Students observed the hatchlings emerging and using their “egg tooth” to break through the shell. Once the chickens hatched, they were moved to a brooder box, which is a plastic tub outfitted with woodchips, a heat lamp, feed bowl, and water tower. 

The fluffy yellow babies have been a source of excitement for kindergartners. On a recent day, students delighted in serving as a “fence” for the chicks, gathering around a long green piece of paper. Teacher Susan Hope scattered some food for the birds, who then began pecking. 

Students placed their hands out to invite the chicks onto their palms, and some were able to gently hold the tiny fuzzy creatures. Student Tess Rowley and Avery Rosenbloom both said they learned that holding the chicks can be a ticklish experience. 

Along with caring for the live animals, kindergarteners took part in other activities related to the farm animals, such as making a chick on paper using tiny bits of yellow paper. The chicks were provided by Quiver Farm Projects, Inc., of Pennsburg.