Last week when we began our study of Africa, we started with talking about indigenous animals to the continent. The gorilla was the first we discussed as we learned their eating preferences, the males color change as he matured and their family style of living. Today we learned about Koko, the talking gorilla. Koko has lived her life in a zoo which seems rather sad but she has learned to communicate using sign language. A graduate student began a 2 year project 30 years ago with the then one year old Koko. They are still working together and Koko now sees Penny as her mother. On the website dedicated to her, koko.org, you can see their very human relationship in numerous pictures.
The children were absolutely fascinated with Koko. They learned she has had three kittens which she adored, plays with a baby doll and her favorite color is blue. She even is an accomplished artist with prints for sale on her website. There is even a section for children to learn more about her, complete with information to e-mail or write her. Today each child drew Koko a picture, described the picture and asked Koko a question relating to the picture. Their questions surprised me with inquiries about games, foods and activities she might enjoy and even one expressing a desire to be friends. Wow, we really are accepting of others differences here!
I will make color copies of these pages for their journals and send the originals to Koko. We are hoping for a reply, probably through e-mail. I'm not sure about the children but I know this will be my first non-human pen pal.
Thursday is the big green day so we began preparing. the children decorated foam shamrocks with green glitter (lots of glitter!). When dry I will glue pin backs to them and we'll wear them for St. Patrick's Day.
Tomorrow are the Early Learners plays at 10:30 and 11:15. I will be recording these with my new digital video camera. I'm new to this so please lower your expectations and I'll do my best. I will make DVDs for each family as soon as possible.
Our field trip to the Safari Zoo next week has raised a few questions. Parents/families are welcome to join us at the zoo. Since our children are riding the bus, we cannot pay parent entrance fees ($11 for adults). You may either meet us there or drive in caravan with us. If you are planning to transport your child or take them home with you afterwards, I do need to know. It could possibly change the other classes need for a parent driver. Please know I do welcome families for what promises to be a wonderful adventure. An FYI will come home tomorrow with your child.
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