Pumpkin pumpkin big and round, I’m glad you grow upon the ground.
I’m glad you don’t grow in a tree for then you might fall down on me.
Last week we had the opportunity to visit Brookdale Farms for their fall field trips. They did an amazing job using their resources to educate the children about animals and agriculture. The children really enjoyed themselves and learned a lot in the process.
The children also showed that they have become good friends – looking out for their partners and reaching out to help friends when needed. While waiting to line up, we discussed what we might learn about today. The children discussed how pumpkins begin from a seed, then become a sprout before they grow into a pumpkin on a vine.
The first “farmer” taught us the difference between beaks and bills and taloned and webbed feet. Then we got to head over to pet “Lamb-Lamb” the sheep and meet their donkey and horse.
We learned about ruminants and hooves. We also learned about how teeth are different for herbivores and carnivores. Each child got to pet and feel the difference between the sheep and the donkey. 
After we got to know the animals a bit, we headed over to the covered barn to learn about cows and butter. Five children got to dress the to be a specific part of the cow: the body, tongue, hooves, udders, and fly-swatting tail! After that we got to make butter by shaking heavy cream. Then it was time for a snack – butter on saltines.
Next we headed to the tractor for the hay ride. It was a crazy ride and the children had a blast! The tractor delivered us to the corn fields where we learned about different types of corn and corn products. Next was the pumpkin patch! Each child got to choose a pumpkin and clip it from the vine.
Everyone was very pleased with their pumpkins! From a Montessori perspective it fit nicely into our study of land-animals and living and non-living objects! Happy FALL!