Each spring, the Barley Sheaf School community looks forward to a very special tradition – hatching baby chicks!
Led by kindergarten teacher Mrs. Kathleen Mikalsen, this hands-on experience brings learning to life as students observe the incredible process of growth and change. As a special part of the Kindergarten Science Unit “The Needs of Living Things,” Mrs. Mikalsen and fourth-grade teacher Mr. Christopher Truncale have worked together, with support from the Barley Sheaf PTO, to bring the chick hatching project into the classroom.
The eggs, which are sourced from a local farmer, are set into an incubator in Mrs. Mikalsen’s classroom. A large hallway display helps students count the 21 days until hatching and lets students know what is happening inside the eggs as each day passes. All kindergarten classes are invested in the project, and students from all over the school stop by daily to check on the progress. Excitement builds with each passing day!
This year, Hatch Day fell on May 4. Over 30 hours, five adorable chicks hatched. Streaming on a live camera feed, students, staff and families tuned in and watched the chicks pip, zip and push their way into the world. So many viewers have tuned in to observe our chicks, who were named by each kindergarten class. We’re thrilled to introduce Caramel, Smokey, Munchkin, Obi Wan, and Baby Yoda (born on Star Wars Day).
As part of their science lessons, students learned about the chicks’ basic needs — food, water, shelter, and care. In small groups, they help feed the chicks, provide fresh water and wood chips, and create artwork for the brooding box. They enjoy reading, singing, and gently petting and cuddling them. Students also love teaching visitors about the chicks and sharing updates on the school news broadcast. “I think it’s very important for the children to understand that these adorable fluffy chicks will grow, rather quickly, into amazing and intelligent chickens,” said. Mrs. Mikalsen. “They won’t be tiny, downy creatures forever, but through it all they are deserving of our care and love.”
As the chicks grow, they are moved into a bigger brooding box (or two) and taken into the school courtyard for playtime. Other classes can sign up for designated time to interact with the chicks. When the school year ends, Mr. Truncale will add them to the flock that he keeps at home. A special thanks is shared with the school’s PTO for its support and funding.
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