A lesson on hibernation teaches the preschool kids about bear behavior in the winter. A children's book that talks about hibernation, such as "Every Autumn Comes the Bear" by Jim Arnosky, introduces the topic. The book follows a bear as he searches for a den for hibernation. It lends itself well to sequencing activities. Create a set of pictures cards that depict the process of a bear preparing for hibernation. The kids arrange the cards in the correct order.
As a culminating activity about bear hibernation, bring in several cardboard boxes to serve as caves. Let the kids decorate the caves with construction paper or paint. Use teddy bears or plastic bear toys to allow the kids to recreate the hibernation process.
Feeding animals during the winter months provides them with food when they may have difficulty finding it naturally. Whenever you feed animals in the winter, it's important to continue feeding them throughout the season. They come to rely on the source of food and will miss it if you stop suddenly. The children's book "Animals in Winter" highlights the eating habits of animals and offers suggestions you can use to feed animals.
Homemade or commercial bird feeders offer an age-appropriate feeding activity for preschool kids. A pine cone covered in peanut butter and rolled in bird seed offers a natural bird feeder. Stringing circle-shaped cereal onto a pipe cleaner or string is another simple option. For a longer lasting bird feeder, recycle a clean plastic milk jug. Cut rectangular openings on two sides of the milk carton. Cut a small hole beneath the opening and place a length of wooden dowel into it to provide a perch for the birds. Hang the bird feeders in a location that allows the preschool kids to observe the birds as they eat.
This dramatic play activity serves as a reinforcement after discussing how animals spend the winter. When the name of an animal is called, the children imitate the animal's actions during the winter. For example, if the animal was a bear, the students might get on all fours, stretch and curl up in a sleeping position. For geese, the kids flap their wings to head south. Ask for volunteers to explain their actions for each animal to review the winter animal concepts. This activity works well as a time filler when you have a few extra minutes in the classroom.