## Lesson Plan: Planting a Bean Seed
### Subject: Nature Study
### Age Group: Toddlers (2-4 years)
### Duration: 30 minutes
#### Objectives:
1. Introduce toddlers to the basic concept of plant growth.
2. Encourage hands-on learning through planting a bean seed.
3. Foster curiosity and appreciation for nature.
#### Materials:
- Bean seeds (e.g., lima beans or kidney beans)
- Small pots or cups (biodegradable options are ideal)
- Potting soil
- Watering can or spray bottle
- Plastic spoons or mini shovels
- Aprons or old clothes (optional, to protect from dirt)
- Labels for the children’s names
- Illustrated storybook about plant growth (optional, for circle time)
- Paper towels
- Tray or plastic sheet (to catch any spills)
#### Preparation:
1. Prepare the planting area by laying down the tray or plastic sheet.
2. Set up the materials (soil, pots, seeds) within easy reach.
3. Fill the watering can or spray bottle with water.
4. Pre-moisten the soil slightly for easier handling.
#### Lesson Outline:
1. **Circle Time Introduction (5 minutes):**
- Gather children in a circle.
- Briefly explain that they will be planting bean seeds and watching them grow.
- (Optional) Read a short illustrated storybook about plant growth to capture their interest.
2. **Hands-On Activity: Planting the Seeds (15 minutes):**
- Demonstrate step-by-step how to plant a bean seed:
1. Fill the pots with soil using plastic spoons or mini shovels.
2. Make a small hole in the soil with a finger.
3. Place a bean seed into the hole.
4. Cover the seed with soil.
- Hand out materials to each child and assist them in planting their own bean seed.
- Talk about each step and what will happen next (e.g., “The seed will drink water and take a nap in the soil, and then it will start to grow.”).
3. **Watering the Seeds (5 minutes):**
- Show the children how to gently water the soil.
- Allow each child to water their seed using the spray bottle or watering can.
- Explain the importance of not over-watering, saying the seed needs "just a little drink."
4. **Labeling (3 minutes):**
- Help each child label their pot with their name.
- Talk about how they will recognize their own plant as it grows.
5. **Cleanup (2 minutes):**
- Encourage the children to help tidy up the planting area.
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
6. **Wrap-Up and Reflection (2 minutes):**
- Gather the children back in a circle.
- Briefly talk about what they did and ask what they think will happen next.
- Encourage them to take care of their plants at home or at school.
#### Extension Activities:
- **Observation Journal**: Create a simple observation journal where the children can draw what they see as the plant grows.
- **Songs and Rhymes**: Sing a song or rhyme about growing plants. Example: “I Plant a Seed” (tune of “Twinkle, Twinkle”).
#### Assessment:
- Observe the children’s engagement and participation during the activity.
- Check understanding through their ability to describe what a seed needs to grow (soil, water, sunlight).
- Review observations they may share verbally or through drawings.
#### Notes:
- Keep an eye on any allergies or sensitivities to soil or plants.
- Make sure the environment is safe and child-friendly.
- Follow up in subsequent classes by checking on the plant's progress together.
This hands-on lesson plan aims to ingrain the fundamental aspects of plant growth while stimulating the natural curiosity toddlers have about the world around them.