This month, the Preschool 1 classroom at RisingOaks Early Learning | St. Patrick, was filled with excitement as we explored the magic of ice and science behind how it melts. After hearing that we might get our first snowfall of the season on Monday, I decided it was the perfect opportunity to create a hands-on learning experience for the children. I froze some of our classroom animals along with our beautiful flower stones in a container of water- and the next morning, the children were eager to investigate!

As soon as I walked into the classroom, the buzz of anticipation was unmistakable. The children were thrilled for the possibility of snow and even more excited to explore the frozen surprises waiting for them. I placed the large block of ice and the smaller frozen bowl of flower stones onto our turf tray. And the children immediately took the lead.

Their reactions were priceless! Hayden giggled and shouted “Cold! Cold!” as he touched the icy block. Meanwhile, Lloyd and Vincent took a more strategic approach, heading straight to the kitchen area to gather spatulas and spoons as tools for breaking and melting the ice. Their resourcefulness showed wonderful problem-solving skills and growing independence.

As they worked, many children began pretending the turf tray was a frying pan, using their “cooking tools” to slide, tap, and stir the ice block around. Through this imaginative play, they naturally discovered what happens when water freezes and how ice melts- an early understanding of scientific change and cause-and-effect.

This experience was not only engaging but also perfectly suited to the winter season we are stepping into. The children explored sensory play, creativity, collaboration, and early science concepts-all while joyful learning moments with us.