At the Beit Tsindlicht Children’s Educational Center, the main preschool of the Jewish Community of Dnipro, a series of thematic weeks continues, each dedicated to one of the Days of Creation. The entire program is united by a common concept: “Six Days of Creation: The Wonderful World Around Us.”
This week’s focus was on the Fifth Day of Creation, when fish, birds, and insects came into being. In each group, a mini-laboratory was set up where children could observe the fascinating metamorphosis of insects — including the magical moment when butterflies emerge from cocoons. Some creatures were observed live during nature walks, after which the children examined them through magnifying glasses. Other species were explored using photographs and illustrations.
Each group carefully observed aquarium fish, as teachers explained how fish differ from other animal groups. On designated days, every group had the opportunity to feed the aquarium fish. The study of birds also included several components — direct observation in nature, exploring photos and drawings of birds, and an engaging game in which the children helped an imaginary parrot find all its lost feathers.
“To wrap up the week, we held a clay sculpting workshop where the children recreated what they had seen — modeling butterflies out of clay with their own hands,” says Malka Averbukh, a teacher at the kindergarten. “It was a delightful creative activity that beautifully combined nature observation with artistic expression.”
