ES Showcases Learning At Family Events

Curiosity sparked exciting discoveries in three preschool classrooms of The Experiential School, where young learners wrapped up their inquiry projects by sharing their knowledge with their families.

A Citrus Celebration in Dr. Q.’s Class

Dr. Q.’s and Ms. Beggins' class wrapped up their citrus-themed inquiry with a Citrus Tea Party. Their journey began with an interest in maps, which led to an inquiry about Florida and its famous fruit—citrus! Students explored key questions: What are the types of citrus fruits? What makes citrus different from other types of fruit? What happens when we peel them? Slice them? Squeeze them? How do we use fruit other than for eating? 

The students were introduced to different fruits in hands-on ways. They made lemon volcanoes, juice and muffins. They strung dried citrus slices along with beads to make garlands. 

“I used five balls and five fruits and putted them on a string. It was a little hard, but I did it with some help!” said Leila. 

They were also excited to learn they could make soap from fruit, and made bars of soap for the ES Winter Market. On a field trip to Whole Foods they saw similar natural soaps available for purchase. 

Next the class planted seeds and documented what they observed about their growth.

During a class discussion about a culminating event, Scarlett said, “We could make treats and serve them to our parents!” The result? A joyful gathering where families enjoyed homemade citrus treats while celebrating the children's discoveries.

Flour Power in Ms. Sweet’s Class

Down the hall, March 14 was a big day for Ms. Sweet’s and Ms. Dominique's students as they hosted a Flour Power event. In the days leading up to it, the children were busy using flour - baking banana and white bread, making salt dough ornaments - and creating labels for their work.

At the event families explored all the ways the class had been using flour. The children proudly showed off their homemade playdough, played in a wheat sensory bin, crafted wheat bouquets, and, of course, sampled delicious baked treats—blueberry muffins, honey cookies, and two kinds of bread.

Building Together in Ms. Ginger’s Class

Meanwhile, in Mrs. Ginger and Ms. Alisa’s classroom, families joined in for a Woodworking and Building event. Dressed in industrial aprons and hard hats students explored the world of construction alongside their families.

With hammers, hand drills, wood glue and an assortment of loose parts, families worked together to create a unique structure. The event encouraged creativity, teamwork, and hands-on problem-solving. By the end of the day, their collaborative masterpiece was displayed in the Exploratorium for all to enjoy.

Through these inquiry projects the youngest Chargers not only explored science but also strengthened their research skills, creativity and confidence—proving that hands-on learning makes for the best kind of education.