Recap - MM2

Worms found for the garden.

The children at the Michigan State University Child Development Laboratory spent a majority of their time outside exploring their school's garden.

Children made observations about how insects affect the plants in the garden and humans as well.

After picking up several worms a child said, "They're wiggling in my hands."

Another child commented on how worms can positively affect plant growth.

"If we put the worms in the garden they will make space for roots to grow," the child said.

Similarly, a child wondered what might happen if he caught a wasp in his hands.

A peer said, "A wasp will sting you to protect itself. Stay away."

Preview - MM2

Garden at the MSU Child Development Laboratory.

Time spent outdoors is extremely valuable for both teachers and children at the Michigan State University Child Development Laboratory.

Assistant Director Dr. Lillian McFarlin said children should play outdoors because nature provides the opportunity for children to experience open ended play frames.

"When you go outside there are 50 different ways you can dig a hole," McFarlin said.

Head Teacher Sally Mowers said a child's ability to take risks outdoors can promote learning in academics.

"They're willing to try more things both physically and academically because a risk is something that's required when a child learns
to read and write," Mowers said.

Recap - Mia

Mia after finding a frisbee in the bushes.

After having been awoken from a nap by a large thud, Mia searched for the source of the disturbance.

Mia first searched in the backyard, however, instead of finding what had woken her, she became distracted by a stick and an old frisbee.

It wasn't until after the thud reoccurred that Mia decided to investigate near the front of the house.

Mia barked when she discovered that the neighbor, Carrie Chrisinske, had been producing the sound when she kicked her broken lawn mower repeatedly.

"This thing is busted," Chrisinske said.

Mia ended her extensive investigation by taking a nap on a living room chair.

Preview - Mia

Mia in bed after a long day of napping.

Mia, a black and white pit bull, enjoys few things more than napping. The most difficult task she faces involves finding a more comfortable position in bed. However, there are times when Mia's daily routine is disturbed.

At any given moment, Mia will jolt out of her slumber and her big, black ears twitch as she searches for something in the distance. The dog will often look off into the empty house and growl as if an intruder stands directly in front of her.

Mia typically guards her home by standing atop the couch and surveying the street through large bay windows in the front of the house. If anything makes a sudden sound, she is sure to alert her owners immediately.