A Closer Look at Sheep
After reading about Almanzo’s day sheep shearing in “Farmer Boy” by Laura Ingalls Wilder ( “The Playful Pioneers” curriculum), we were inspired. We used “Farm Anatomy” by Julia Rothman to learn all about the different parts of a sheep and the various ways in which they are sheared. The girls had a mini-hands-on experience with this with the help of our Playmobil sheep set and a little bit of cotton wool.
I simply wrapped the sheep with the wool and they pretended to “shear” it off…we then washed the “wool” and dried it in the sun.
The girls loved imagining how free sheep must feel in the spring after being freed from their matted dirty coats. Studying the steps involved in cleaning and brushing the wool and eventual spinning of yarn, really deepened our appreciation for all the work that process entailed not so many years ago.
We decided to try our hand at weaving with the help of this little loom and mini yarn, just like Almanzo’s mother. Although I was unsure at Miss 6 and Miss 4 being able to maneuver the loom, they took to this handicraft immediately. The rest of our day was spent reading and taking turns weaving. What a beautiful art, I’m so happy we took a chance at introducing this so early in their lives. In hindsight, I wish we had purchased a bigger more sturdy loom like the one below…it will definitely go on the wishlist.
BOOKS
“From Sheep to Sweater” by Robin Nelson – an easy introduction to the life of a farm sheep, including large colorful illustrations.
“No sleep for Sheep” by Karen Beaumont is a fun book featuring a sheep looking to get some sleep on a very noisy farm.
“The Sheepover” by Jennifer Churchman is a sweet little board book based on a true story of a little sick lamb and how she regains her health.
CRAFTS
“Paper plate Sheep” is a simple craft by Housing a Forest. Paper plate, paper and black cardboard are all that’s needed for this fine motor skill activity.
“Rounding up the Sheep” game by Mrs Plemons Kindergarten is so simple yet hilariously entertaining for all involved. White balloons drawn to look like sheep and a fly swatter for each participant will get this game going quickly.
“Sticky sheep sun catchers” craft by Twodaloo is easy enough even the youngest of children can participate. Contact paper taped to the window with a drawing of a sheep and cotton balls for the wool are all that’s required for this adorable craft.
May happiness be within easy reach for you today!
Sue
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