From the moment Dutch Broadway School’s second graders received a group of fertilized eggs to the moment they witnessed firsthand the hatching of these baby chicks, the scholars were filled with excitement and anticipation for this hands-on science lesson that correlated with their life cycle unit.

The class received eggs from the Suffolk County Farm and Education Center in Yaphank in May. The farm provided information on how to properly care for the eggs and hatched chicks, including the correct temperature and humidity of the incubator.

As part of the three-week long project, the second graders observed the chicks’ life cycle and checked the incubator daily to monitor the development of the eggs. Around day 21, the baby chicks started to peck their way out of the eggshells in a process known as pipping.

Once the chicks hatched, the scholars eagerly watched them explore their new world and interact with one another. Though the second graders enjoyed having these special guests in their classroom, the chicks went back to the farm after a few days in Dutch Broadway.

Date Added: 6/24/2025