caribou learning facts and decorating reindeer muffins

We learned some interesting facts about caribou (another name for reindeer) in pre-k today. Did you know that both male and female caribou have antlers? Did you know they can run really fast (48 mph!)?  Did you know the inner parts of their hooves become soft in the summer (to walk on the tundra) and then those inner parts shrink in the winter (to let the outer rims provide traction on the ice, kind of like studded snow tires)?  And, the knees of many species of reindeer are adapted to produce a clicking sound as they walk!

We also enjoyed decorating and eating reindeer muffins at the end of our morning.The kids are experts at setting the tables for a party; tablecloths, plates, napkins and a pre-k centerpiece of greens and pretend candles.