Farm Day Brings Squeals and Smiles at Mailman Segal Center

Preschool’s annual Farm Day

Dressed in cowboy boots and hats and ready for fun, Mailman Segal Center students of all ages were delighted to participate in the preschool’s annual Farm Day on Friday, January 29.

Sponsored by PALS (Parents as Leaders) families, the day featured time on the playground with a petting zoo, a miniature pony and a “bales of hay” photo spot. Inside the classroom, classes were treated to new books about animals, healthy Farm Day snacks and creative craft projects. Many parents joined their children for both the outside and inside festivities.

“This is a fun, memorable event for the students because it incorporates elements of farm life in everything we do that day,” said Adele Weissblatt, associate director, Early Learning Programs. “The teachers and aides really enjoy watching their reaction when they come face to face with the goats, chickens and cow. Some are skeptical, while others don’t hesitate to get a closer look.”

As the children approach the animals, Farm Day also helps remind them about “gentle touches”—something that the preschool stresses every day in how the students treat each other in the classroom. “They learn to care, respect and be sensitive to others and to respect all living things,” explained Weissblatt.

There are also less obvious benefits to an event like Farm Day. She added, “It provides an opportunity for the children to share their thoughts and ideas in the classroom as well as at home, since many of their parents were able to be on campus with us that day.”