On Feb. 3, Dr. Jeffrey Hein of Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) brought a prototype Mars rover for the children of the Crescenta-Cañada Cooperative Nursery School to explore. The children observed some cool technology in action as the miniature prototype rover safely navigated over wooden obstacles, as well as giggling kids’ tummies! The Darling Ducklings were talking about transportation during the week and got to see a truly all-terrain vehicle in action. What a treat to learn about how JPL has been developing innovative ways to safely transport robots into space and around other worlds!

The kids also got to touch and feel the types of materials that were used to deliver the actual rover to Mars, including parachutes, thermal blanketing, and pyromechanical release bolts. After an exciting parachute game, the kids got to bring home coloring pages featuring the rover and Mars surface, as well as a sticker commemorating successful missions to Mars, including the Opportunity and Curiosity rovers.

Crescenta-Cañada Cooperative Nursery School (CCNS) has served the community for over 55 years. Parents manage and guide the cooperative preschool along with two salaried teachers to create a program to meet the social, emotional, intellectual and physical needs of their children. Parents also assist in the classroom once or twice per month and work together on various committees.

For more information visit www.ccnsonline.com or look for Crescenta-Cañada Cooperative Nursery School on Facebook.