Children can learn about hibernation by observing changes in weather and animal behavior for themselves. As winter draws near, classes can walk outdoors to feel the chill in the air and watch decreased animal activity. Teachers can explain that birds are preparing to fly south and mammals are storing body fat to prepare for a long winter sleep. In cold northern climates students can see the entire ecosystem change visibly with the end of summer.
Stories can introduce the concept of hibernation through relatable narratives. For example, movies featuring hibernating can prompt students to ask questions about hibernation and share observations they have made on the subject. Reading children’s books, such as “Hibernation” by Melven and Gilda Berger, aloud to kindergarteners can help them associate a memorable narrative with this new concept.
Teachers can engage students’ creativity while teaching them about nature with hibernation-themed craft projects. Hands-on activities help children become interested in the concept of hibernation and encourage them to retain the knowledge they gain about it. For example, brown paper bags can be used as caves for hibernating toy bears.
Imagination games can help kindergarteners become interested in the concept of hibernation and improve their ability to retain factual information. Students can pretend they are animals that hibernate, such as bears, squirrels or marsupials. Teachers can guide the class to play-act various animals noticing a change in the weather and doing what they need to do to prepare for the winter, such as finding a safe warm place for a den and storing up body fat.