Kindergarten Discovers Pennsylvania Wildlife: Curiosity and Connection at the Wildlands Conservancy

As part of our social studies program, Kindergarten students recently set off on an adventure to the Wildlands Conservancy to learn about Pennsylvania wildlife. This hands-on experience kicks off a project-based learning unit in which each child explores Pennsylvania’s native species and habitats. After the trip, students select an animal they’re curious about and work one-on-one with their teacher to research their chosen animal. The unit culminates in a special project where each child shares their learning with our community.

At Wildlands, students observed worms up close with magnifying glasses, created seed pods to plant at home, and met some of the Conservancy’s animal residents—including a skunk, a screech owl, an opossum named Juniper, and two turtles. The trip ended with a joyful nature hike, giving students time to experience the sights and sounds of the natural world.

When asked what they liked most about the experience, most Kindergarteners enthusiastically replied, “everything!” It’s moments like these that spark a lifelong curiosity and help our young learners connect with the world around them.