The abundance of life in our gardens increases by the day, as does the children’s interest and engagement with the natural world. Thornton Heath’s youngest scientists have spent the week observing the relationship between aphid, ant and ladybird; watching as the ants “tickle” the back of the aphids in order to get a drink of sugary juice; looking out for the hunting ladybirds…our bean plants’ only hope of being saved from the greedy aphids who have infested our bean patch.
Monday saw the delivery of 10 hen’s eggs and an incubator from our friend Farmer Jane. With each egg numbered our young scientists observed the eggs. Were there any sign of which egg would hatch first? Any movement? Any shape differences? Perhaps the biggest would hatch first or perhaps the smallest? After a discussion, we each wrote our name on a slip of paper and placed it beneath the relevant number.
Three overnight hatchings meant there was a three way tie for first place! Over next week, we shall continue to care for the chicks, ensuring their needs are meant, and continuing to observe for any changes
On Wednesday, we gave a big thank you to local hero Graham, who visited to deliver handmade gifts to the nursery…two large planters to accommodate the plants grown by the children from seed. Graham is a member of the Thornton Heath Community Action Team and spearheads community projects; from community gardens to colourful mosaics. https://www.thorntonheath.net/ A true local hero!
