Decomposition

Discovery Class went outside today to look up close at small creatures using magnifying glasses, exploring our "World of Wonder"

They also heard a story about composting, and how small creatures (such as worms) help break rotting food into compost that helps new plants to grow.

The Treasure Hunters class also used magnifying glasses to explore small creatures outside.

They thought and talked about how long it takes different sorts of waste to decompose ...

.. . .  and examined compost and a rotting log with their magnifying glasses.  

Meanwhile, the nursery children enjoyed the outdoors too--with bubbles.

Here are a few ideas for extending the learning at home:

Set up a worm compost bin or other type of composting at home.  Instructions for worm composting can be found here or here.  Instructions for other types of compost bins can be found here or here.  If you already compost at home, find guidance on the TLC website to work with your child's school to start composting.

Take a hike to look for signs of decomposition or try log dissection.  Be sure to bring magnifying glasses!

Watch a video from New Hampshire public television (approximately 14 minutes) about decomposition.  If family members find some of the visuals "gross." try to think of the images as "fascinating" instead!

Perhaps your family already practices the ritual of chalice lighting before dinner.  Bring this kind of reverence and intentionality to composting.  You might make a compost collection pail for your kitchen, and at the end of the day, make a trip to your compost bin to "feed" it, recognizing your part in the interdependent web of life.