Pre-K Oyster Mushrooms

One of my favorite lessons to teach every year is mushroom propagation and the many “Rs” of sustainability (Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Repair, Repurpose and Rot).

“We had a fabulous harvest and feast today!!! Everyone tried them and most came back for more! They said to tell their “mushroom teacher” that they were brave and ate the mushrooms!!! Thank you for an amazing experience.” Mrs. Beltrami, Riverstone Pre-K teacher.

This is the best report I can think of from a class of 3-4 year olds! I think the fungus kingdom is unapproachable to many teachers and that creates the stigma that it’s not something we should be teaching, but I think that understanding the role of these decomposers in our environment and the habitats that they are found in can be an enriching and eye-opening experience for students.