At Action Day Schools, we believe that hands-on experiences are a cornerstone of meaningful learning, sparking curiosity and fostering real-world connections. Recently, Ms. Debbie hosted a delightful educational session about chickens for our Mv families, demonstrating how a simple, real-world encounter can enrich children’s understanding of responsibility, empathy, and the natural world. This unique event not only brought joy to our students and families but also embodied our commitment to experiential learning, a fundamental element of our curriculum and philosophy.

Since 2015, chickens have been an integral part of our ADS family, thanks to Ms. Debbie’s partnership with a local farm. Her initiative began with the hatching of chicks, a project that captivated our students and staff alike. Eventually, we adopted one of these feathered friends, introducing the joys and responsibilities of caring for animals into our daily routine. This simple addition has since blossomed into a learning opportunity that engages students of all ages in new ways, connecting them with the rhythms of nature and the importance of animal care.

During her recent presentation, Ms. Debbie shared the heartwarming story of how our chickens—Pearl, Basil, and Magnolia—found a home with us. The session also highlighted the responsibilities that come with raising chickens, as Ms. Debbie emphasized the teamwork involved. Caring for the chickens is a shared endeavor among our staff, students, and families, teaching children about cooperation and the importance of nurturing the animals we bring into our lives. This responsibility mirrors a vital aspect of our curriculum, where we encourage students to grow into compassionate, engaged individuals.

Following the presentation, our young learners and their families enjoyed a series of chicken-themed activities in Ms. Debbie and Ms. Serena’s creatively designed classroom. From decorating chicken-shaped cookies to reading stories about chickens, coloring pages, and watching a special documentary created by a former Action Day alumni, the activities connected students to storytelling, arts, and multimedia—an interdisciplinary experience aligning with our commitment to holistic learning. Each activity served as an extension of the chicken presentation, allowing students to deepen their understanding in an immersive, playful environment that stimulates multiple senses and learning styles.

This hands-on approach—inviting students and families to interact, ask questions, and experience the joy of discovery together—is a perfect illustration of our educational philosophy at Action Day Schools. By bringing subjects to life and engaging our students’ natural curiosity, we help them build a solid foundation for future learning. In every chicken story, activity, and laugh shared, students are developing empathy, critical thinking, and a love for learning that goes beyond textbooks and classrooms.

Thanks to Ms. Debbie’s enthusiasm and dedication, our Mv families are now experts on chickens, and this cherished experience will be remembered as one that connected our students not only to the wonders of nature but also to each other—an enduring reminder of what it means to be part of the Action Day Schools family.