Learning Beyond the Books: Pre-K Classes Adopt Pets for Real-World Lessons

At Cincinnati Country Day School, learning goes beyond the classroom, thriving through hands-on experiences that engage students' hearts and minds. During the 2024-25 school year, Pre-K I and Pre-K II classes engaged in a furry – and quite adorable – lesson in experiential learning.

At the beginning of the school year, rather than simply introducing a classroom pet, the teachers asked the students, “What pet should we get?” This driving question allowed the Pre-K students to actively participate in every stage of the class pet selection process. Together, the classrooms explored what kinds of animals could be pets, considered the costs and responsibilities involved, and decided on a class pet.

The inspiration came naturally. “I have wanted to do a pet project for a while,” says Meredith Simmons, Pre-K II lead teacher. “The project complemented our literacy program, Let’s Know, through which we read fiction and nonfiction books about animals.  It just made sense: learning about animals and then researching possible pets to bring into our classrooms.”

To engage the children's interest through play, teachers created dramatic play areas that resembled a vet clinic, a pet grooming salon, and a pet care setup at home. Students explored various animals by reading books such as “Harry the Dirty Dog” and “Swimmy.” They also surveyed Lower School teachers about their classroom pets and visited our resident animal expert, Jana Westhoven, at 7125 House to learn about animal care. Additionally, the students wrote letters to Mark Morowski, head of lower school, advocating for the addition of a class pet.

Their efforts paid off. Pre-K I adopted Lollipop, a bearded dragon, and Pre-K II welcomed a guinea pig named Evie. Students hosted a "Gotcha Day" party to celebrate Evie's arrival, painting colorful gift bags, bringing presents, and opening them together.

Once Lollipop and Evie joined the classrooms, the hands-on learning continued. Students practiced caretaking skills, preparing delicious salads, monitoring their needs, and discussing what makes a healthy environment for classroom pets. As part of their learning, Pre-K I students created a detailed "care guide" for Lollipop, along with a video explaining all about Lollipop and how to care for her.

The Pre-K teachers agree that the children love spending time with their classroom pets. “Pets in the classroom have become a comfort for many students, supporting their social-emotional growth,” says Meredith.

Each classroom’s journey was unique, leading to deep engagement, critical thinking, and real-world learning. The project touched every corner of their curriculum, from scientific exploration to social-emotional growth.

“What’s so awesome about the Lower School is the teachers – they are passionate about project-based learning and supportive of projects like this,” shares Meredith. “It’s truly such a special place.”