Preschool 1 explored a fun and engaging freezing experiment that sparked curiosity, teamwork, and problem-solving. The learning began when we explored the idea of creating “ice eggs.” Together, we discussed which small animal figures could fit inside balloons and what might happen if water-filled balloons were left outside in the cold. The children eagerly shared their ideas and predictions, showing enthusiasm and curiosity right from the start. Taking turns, the children carefully placed animal figures into balloons and filled them with water. They worked cooperatively, supporting one another and practicing patience while waiting for their turn. Once the balloons were ready, the children placed them into containers and helped decide the best spot outdoors to leave them overnight. Many children predicted how long the water might take to freeze and excitedly talked about what they hoped to discover the next day. The following day, the children could hardly wait to go outside and check on their ice eggs. With great excitement, they discovered that the water had frozen. Working together, we peeled off the balloons and revealed the animals trapped inside the ice. The children closely observed the frozen eggs, sharing their thoughts and asking questions about how and why the water changed. Theo said, “it’s too cold that’s why they are frozen”. Adrian said, “they froze because of snow”. At first, the children tried to free the animals outdoors, experimenting with different ideas. They tried to break them with shovels. Some of the preschoolers tried smashing the ice on the log to get the animal. Later, we decided to continue the exploration indoors. We got some warm water and water droppers and tried to drop warm water on the ice egg. Throughout the activity, the children predicted outcomes, tested their ideas, and observed cause and effect in action. This experience supported the children’s understanding of scientific concepts such as freezing, melting, temperature, and changes in materials. It also encouraged communication, cooperation, and problem-solving as the children listened to one another, negotiated solutions, and worked as a team. The children showed pride and excitement as their efforts were successful, celebrating each small discovery along the way. This engaging investigation allowed the children to learn through play while building confidence, curiosity, and a growing understanding of the world around them. We had so much fun together.
