Sharks, stingrays, penguins and fish are just some of the creatures the preschool children at Goodstart Derrimut saw on a recent trip to Melbourne SEA LIFE Aquarium.
The children explored the underwater world, listened to talks about sharks and crocodiles, and touched star fish and crabs in the rockpool exhibit.
Goodstart Derrimut educator Peta Brown said the excursion had created plenty of learning opportunities for the children.
“Learning about animals and nature is very important for children. Aside from having a fun day exploring, the aquarium visit provided the children with opportunities to learn about different aquatic species, their habitats and behaviour,” Ms Brown said.
“It also encouraged them to connect with and better understand the importance of looking after the environment and caring for animals.”
“The children loved the shark and stingray aquarium. They were mesmerized as the animals swam over us and all around the tanks.”
Ms Brown said learning about sea life had been a big focus for the centre.
“Leading up to the excursion we had group discussions on the different types of fish and animals we would find at the aquarium. We turned our room into an aquarium and the children used art materials to make jelly fish and sea turtles.”
“We also watched documentaries on sea life which sparked the children’s imagination, curiosity, exploration in the lead up to the excursion,” Ms Brown said.
Excursions offer opportunities to expand children’s’ life experiences. Providing children with regular opportunities to venture out to zoos and aquariums, helps them develop an appreciation of nature. Caring for the animals kindles a sense of responsibility, achievement, and a genuine desire to learn.
The children explored the underwater world, listened to talks about sharks and crocodiles, and touched star fish and crabs in the rockpool exhibit.
Goodstart Derrimut educator Peta Brown said the excursion had created plenty of learning opportunities for the children.
“Learning about animals and nature is very important for children. Aside from having a fun day exploring, the aquarium visit provided the children with opportunities to learn about different aquatic species, their habitats and behaviour,” Ms Brown said.
“It also encouraged them to connect with and better understand the importance of looking after the environment and caring for animals.”
“The children loved the shark and stingray aquarium. They were mesmerized as the animals swam over us and all around the tanks.”
Ms Brown said learning about sea life had been a big focus for the centre.
“Leading up to the excursion we had group discussions on the different types of fish and animals we would find at the aquarium. We turned our room into an aquarium and the children used art materials to make jelly fish and sea turtles.”
“We also watched documentaries on sea life which sparked the children’s imagination, curiosity, exploration in the lead up to the excursion,” Ms Brown said.
Excursions offer opportunities to expand children’s’ life experiences. Providing children with regular opportunities to venture out to zoos and aquariums, helps them develop an appreciation of nature. Caring for the animals kindles a sense of responsibility, achievement, and a genuine desire to learn.