Johnny Appleseed

by Jennifer (iteach)

Every year at this time I teach a whole week theme on apples. We discuss the growing cycle of the apple, products that come from apples, apple tasting graph, and apple art work. The children love to work with the apples and it is a lot of fun. My very favorite part of this unit is Johnny Appleseed.

Have you heard of him? Did you discuss him at school? He is personally a hero of mine and I so enjoy talking about him to the students. Here is a little background information about him. Johnny Appleseed is a popular folktale about the life of John Chapman, a man who lived from 1774-1845. Born in Leominster, Massachusetts, John loved apple trees and apples.

As John watched apples grow, he became very interested in all of nature. He often played in the nearby forest and made friends with animals.

As soon as he was old enough, John traveled west to Ohio, planting apple orchards for new settlers. Along the way, as an explorer and adventurer, he cleared forests, slept and played with animals, befriended Indians, and other strangers, and survived many dangers. Johnny was so well- loved and respected by all who knew him that over the years legends spread about the man whom everyone came to call Johnny Appleseed.

As you can tell Johnny was a peacemaker. I always incorporate his peacemaking skills into our classroom. When there is a conflict in the room, I always say , "What would Johnny do?" . I know very corny, but it works with the little ones. Happy Johnny Appleseed Day!!!!