Slimy Squash

We explored squash today in our classroom!  First we read a book called "Pumpkin, Pumpkin" by Jeanne Tetherington which helped us to understand the life cycle of a pumpkin. Then we discussed how pumpkins and squash are very similar. Children had a chance to pass around four different types and describe what they saw, felt, and smelled. These types were butternut, buttercup, acorn, and spaghetti. After being passed around, the squash were halved and placed at the science center along with scissors, tweezers, scoops, magnifying glasses, and collection trays.

"Tell me about what you did with the squash..."

In addition to helping children explore the life cycle and properties of squash and pumpkins, this activity promoted cooperation and oral language opportunities as children were required to work together on this task. The use of tweezers, magnifying glasses, scissors, and scoopers helped to strengthen their fine motor skills, promoting future writing readiness.