In the autumn most of us talk about the changing trees, the
colors, and the falling leaves. Now that it is winter, this is a wonderful time
to point out the differences in tree types. Invite children to look at those
trees with bare branches; the ones that just a few months ago sported vibrant
colors. Then have them look for trees that are still green – the evergreens.
Develop vocabulary skills by having children talk about the
differences between the evergreen trees and deciduous (those that lose their
leaves) trees. How motivating as those that celebrate Christmas will be decorating an
evergreen tree!
We suggest having children collect pinecones that have
fallen from nearby evergreen trees. Below is an integrated art and science
project that will help children understand that evergreen trees keep their
needles all year long. It is a project that preschool children can complete without adult hands needing to intervene. We love this type of project as it is truly child-created. The bonus? Fine motor
skills are practiced and refined!
Collect a few pinecones.
Color a paper plate green.
Paint the pinecones green.
Gently tear apart cotton balls. Glue the cotton to the paper plate.
Glue the pinecones to the winter scene.
Now have children describe their winter scene and what it
tells us about evergreen trees!
Standards Alignment:
NAEYC: 2.C.03; 2.D.06; 2.G.02; 2.J.05
Head Start: I.D; III.C.; VIII.B.; XI.B.
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