Quacking Fun at First Steps
Last week at First Steps Nursery in Oakdale was nothing short of extraordinary. Why, you ask? Because we had the privilege of witnessing nature's magic unfold—right in our Pre-school—with a duck egg hatching kit! It was like hosting a tiny bird sanctuary for seven amazing days.
We started with six delicate eggs, each holding the promise of fuzzy ducklings-to-be. On the very first day, the excitement skyrocketed when the first duckling made its grand debut. There it was, peeping and wobbling its way into the world, as we cheered it on like proud parents. Overnight, the real party began—because by morning, all six eggs had hatched successfully. Talk about efficient little ducklings!
Aside from the overwhelming cuteness, this experience gave the children an incredible array of learning opportunities. Through observing the hatching process, they gained firsthand insight into life cycles, sparking curiosity about nature and wildlife. It provided an engaging introduction to science, encouraging questions like, “How do ducklings breathe in their eggs?” and “Why do they need to keep warm?”
The ducklings also brought opportunities for nurturing and responsibility. The children helped care for them by ensuring they had food, water, and a safe environment. This hands-on experience taught valuable lessons about empathy and the importance of looking after living things.
Additionally, the little quackers inspired creative activities—there were plenty of duck-themed drawings, songs, and even waddling games! The joy and wonder of the week will surely leave a lasting impression, fostering a love of learning that goes far beyond the nursery walls.
By the end of their stay, the ducklings had become the feathered stars of First Steps, leaving behind cherished memories and valuable lessons. If only every week could be this quack-tastic! 🦆✨
Meet the Team
This month we say hello to Kelsey who is one of our Preschool Room Leaders. Kelsey started working for First Steps as an apprentice back in 2017 and was very quiet and shy compared to the Kelsey we know and love today. Having always looked after her younger siblings as she was growing up, Kelsey naturally went into a childcare career. Kelsey is an animal lover and took a special interest in looking after our precious ducklings during their stay.
