Friday, April 6th

Today we went to check on the ducks for the first time since Spring Break.   Jen had told us that she had seen ducklings in Rock Creek Park, so we were hoping that "our" ducks may have had ducklings as well.   As we walked along the canal, we saw several ducks and noticed their markings.  In addition to having differently colored feathers, it seemed like male ducks also had yellow beaks.   We decided to walk a little further, and then we saw them: ducklings!  Seven ducklings to be exact.  If we listened carefully we could hear their little quacks, which were really more like peeps.  We had brought along food, and we shared it with the duck family.  The ducklings were so little that it seemed like it was difficult for them to eat a cheerio!  We thought about naming the ducklings, but one of our classmates pointed out that they can only be named by their parents.  As we left, Grace said, "It was nice to meet you, little chicks."

Dana and Eleanor met us along the canal.  Many thanks to Dana for capturing this video of the duckling discovery!

While on our walks, we  often find that children respond to elements of the environment.  Children balance along boards and climb on low walls, steps, and inclines.  Of course, we love the columns that are on the other side of the bridge over the canal.  Enjoy these images and have a great weekend!