The age-old question of whether the chicken or the egg came first may remain unanswered, but the excitement around the 4-H embryology program is clear! Kindergarten students at Johnsonville Elementary School recently took part in this engaging program, led by Ryan Littlejohn, Wayne County 4-H program coordinator for Illinois Extension.
Over the course of four weeks, students were introduced to the world of 4-H, agriculture, and chicken raising. The program guided students through the life cycle of a chicken, explored genetic traits, and even highlighted careers in poultry farming. Using a special activity book, students tracked the daily development of their chicks, fueling anticipation as hatching day approached.
The highlight of the program was the successful incubation and hatching of 17 chicks right in the classroom. This hands-on experience not only captivated students but also brought a fresh, interactive element to their traditional curriculum.
Educators interested in bringing the embryology program or other 4-H school opportunities to their classrooms are encouraged to contact the Wayne County Extension Office at 618-842-3702. For more information about 4-H school programs, visit go.illinois.edu/schoolprograms.