Play Space for Mango and Jelly!

The relationship between our classroom animals and the students is a special one. For many students who do not have pets, Mango and Jelly provide the opportunity to take care of a (cuddly, furry) living thing. Taking care of these animals gives students a chance to practice responsibility, gentleness, compassion and respect. Our students help clean the guinea pig cage, feed them (both their regular food and fun veggie treats) and nurture Mango and Jelly by playing with them, brushing them, talking with them and cuddling them.

We had come in from recess and the students told me that they had been talking with Lukas about our gerbils at home and the maze my boys had built for them. With some discussion about how much they love to play and asking about the maze, they came up with a decision to make a play space for Mango and Jelly.

“They need some exercise outside of their cage!” –Xavion

“And they can play in a play that has cool hiding spots!” –Liam

“But what do we make it out of?” –Ella

As a class we brainstormed what we could do. The students had many good ideas. They thought of ways to make it safe and fun for the piggies, and what types of materials we could use.  We then got on to some guinea pig blogs for some design ideas, and also how to keep Mango and Jelly safe in terms of the materials we use.