At Andrews Elementary, students in Ms. Plautz’s class are experiencing hands-on learning in the most heartwarming way—by raising baby chicks! As part of their social-emotional learning (SEL) curriculum, students are discovering the responsibility, kindness, and care involved in raising chickens, from incubation to adulthood.
The excitement began with carefully incubating eggs, and now that the chicks have hatched, students are actively involved in their next stage of life. They have learned how to safely transport the chicks from the incubator to a brooder box and understand the supplies needed to keep them warm, healthy, and thriving.
With the baby chicks in plain sight throughout the day, students are eagerly observing their emotions, behaviors, and interactions. Many enjoy talking to the chicks, moving their flexible seating nearby, and simply watching them grow. This hands-on experience has already sparked a deep sense of empathy and curiosity in the classroom.
Looking ahead, the goal is to create an outdoor chicken coop where students can continue caring for the chickens year-round. This exciting project not only teaches responsibility and life skills but also fosters kindness, patience, and connection with animals.
The joy on students’ faces says it all—this is learning at its best! Kindness and caring extends to all!