Content Area: Health and Physical Education

 

Index: 2.4B Grade 4 CPI 2

 

Standard: 2.4 - Human Relationships & Sexuality

 

Strand: B - Pregnancy and Parenting

 

Cumulative Progress Indicator:  2 -   The student will discuss how the health of the birth mother impacts the development of the fetus.

 

Grade: 4

 

Sample Activities:

 

·        WHERE DO I COME FROM? - Ask students: “Where did you come from?” (Some students will name towns while others may say my mom’s stomach.) Explain that all living things start very small in safe, protected places where they grow and become very special. Introduce the terms uterus, embryo, and fetus by showing a simple fetal development chart. Display objects that are the approximate size of the human embryo/fetus at various stages of development. Discuss how the fetus grows during its time in the uterus. Allow students to hold and examine a life-sized infant doll so they can visualize the changes.

Variation: Invite a pregnant parent or teacher to class so students can ask questions and observe. If possible, allow students to hear the fetal heart rate, feel fetal movement, or view a fetal sonogram.

 

     Variation: Fill a balloon half full with warm water and drop in a marble. Tie the balloon. Explain that the balloon represents the uterus and that the fetus (the marble) is protected by a special fluid in the uterus. Reassure students that the baby breathes in a special way during this time. Variation: Use trade books or videos, (e.g., Berenstain Bears, Little Critter, Arthur) to introduce children to various family members, including a new baby. Coordinate the use of the book or video with play activities that promote the proper care and handling of an infant, and allow children to explore the role of being a parent through play.