First grade visits the Critter Barn!

In May, our first graders stepped out of the classroom and into the barnyard for an exciting field trip to the Critter Barn in Zeeland, Michigan! The day started off a bit chilly, but that didn’t stop us from enjoying a beautiful day outside with the animals. Bundled up and full of excitement, our students were ready for a day of hands-on learning and discovery.

Our adventure began with an animal parade! Staff members introduced us to several animals who live on the farm, and students got the chance to gently pet them. It was the perfect way to start the day and sparked lots of curiosity right away.

   

Then students rotated through stations where they:

 Held chickens and noticed the differences in feathers, combs, and feet

   

Met a 3-year-old pig and her adorable piglets

 

Learned about different breeds of ducks and what makes each one special.

Learned how goats eat and discovered that they don’t have upper front teeth—just a tough upper gum that helps them chew their food!

  

Afterward, we gathered back in the class to explore more about wool from sheep, different types of eggs, and rabbits. One of the biggest highlights was milking a goat! Students were amazed by the process and loved the chance to try something new.

     

 

To wrap up our day, we took a full tour of the barn, putting our new knowledge into action as we met more animals up close. At each stop, students had the chance to observe, ask questions, and interact. The tour consisted of:

Holding baby chicks and bunnies

 

 

 

    

Corralling and feeding chickens

 

 

Going inside a goat pen, where students got to feed the goats and interact with them up close.

 

 

Meeting some cats that were up for adoption

  

Visiting a sweet, retired horse named Bobby!

 

Every moment offered a meaningful connection where wonder met learning. We were grateful for the opportunity to appreciate God’s creatures and deepen our understanding of His amazing creation.