“Can we sing our new song while we walk, Mrs. Wyman?”
“Sure. Let’s do it!”
“Come with me to the vernal pool. In the spring when the water’s cool. Lots of critters need these ponds, like fairy shrimp, salamanders, frogs.”
And off we went to meet our Kindergarten Biologist in Residence at our vernal pool in the woods. We’ve been waiting for this day for so long, and it didn’t disappoint! Emilie had lots of exciting things to share with us including, frog eggs, which we got to touch, a yellow-spotted salamander, and a wood frog. We’ve been learning about these “critters” from the song, and to meet them in person was amazing!
And on our way back…
“Mrs. Wyman. You know what?”
“I don’t. Tell me!”
“It sure was cold out there, but this was the best day ever!”
Thanks for wondering and wandering a bit with me today. And many thanks to the crew at Two Writing Teachers, and the extended SOL community, for giving us the time, space, and encouragement to live the writerly life here every Tuesday throughout the year and daily during the month of March.
Wondering and Wandering 
My family loves vernal pools! We have gotten to see a few of those same spotted salamanders too! (Central Ohio). I love that your class got to experience this together – truly a best day ever! 🙂
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I love outdoor experiences with students! The dialogue says it all! You cannot top “best day ever.”
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It really does sound like a perfect day!
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I always enjoy your outdoor adventures with your kindergartners and always wonder, “Is the pool and woods on the school grounds?”
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Sort of. Our elementary campus (3 schools) abuts conservation land. Town trails begin in several locations just footsteps from each school’s door. The vernal pool is along one of the trails, not far from school. We are truly blessed with this location.
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