After caring for these creatures since they were caterpillars we released our painted lady butterflies in the school gardens. We were sad to see them go, but we wanted the best for them! We treated them with love and care in our classroom and now they are ready for one of the earths more important jobs! Being a pollinator!
Having living things in the classroom was never part of my plan this year but the experience has been so enriching for the students and for me I would most definitely do it again. In caring for our caterpillars recently, and our salmon I have seen students organize themselves, take initiative, be responsible, make observations, ask questions, be gentle and act lovingly. We are stewards of the earth!
It is so true! Caring for living things is immensely enriching for students and really connects their learning to the real world. I am so glad your intention is to continue this when you enrol your own class!