“What is Earth Day?”
That was the question posed to first graders at Lee F. Jackson Elementary School by Jennifer Cristiano, community engagement representative from the National Audubon Society, during an engaging classroom visit about the importance of caring for the environment and sharing it with the animals that call it home.
Students in Ms. Jimenez’s class were eager to share their ideas.
“It’s the day to take care of the Earth,” said Jaia.
“It’s a day to turn off our lights so we can save electricity,” added Payton.
Ms. Cristiano then asked why it is important to care for the planet.
More hands quickly went up.
“We have to take care of the Earth because the Earth takes care of us,” said Avery.
Ashley added, “It’s important because we get our air from the trees.”
The conversation continued as students discussed the many living things that share the Earth, calling out examples such as tarantulas, giraffes, lions, tigers, octopuses, and birds.
Ms. Cristiano explained that the National Audubon Society works to protect birds and the places they live.
“In my work, I celebrate Earth Day every day,” she told the class.
Students then learned about several bird species, including the Piping Plover, American Oystercatcher, Least Tern, and Common Tern, while exploring the unique habitats each one depends on.
When shown a photo of a Piping Plover resting in its natural beach environment, students were challenged to look closely.
“It’s camouflaged,” said Dylan. “It blends into the beach!”
Ms. Cristiano explained that camouflage is a type of adaptation that helps animals survive in their surroundings.
“It protects them from people and other animals,” Dylan added. “It keeps them safe.”
The first graders especially enjoyed noticing the differences between adult birds and their chicks, learning what the birds eat, and discovering how specialized beaks help them open oysters, clams, and mussels while searching for food for their chicks.
They also learned how birds build nests to protect their eggs.
To wrap up the visit, students played a game of “spot the bird,” “spot the eggs,” and “spot the nests.” It proved to be a challenge, as many were carefully hidden within their natural habitats.
LFJ Falcons discovered that protecting the Earth can begin with simply learning to appreciate the wildlife all around them.
#EarthDay