Butterflies
In the spring we like to learn about butterflies. We learn about symmetry and metamorphosis. The children enjoy watching these guys change!
We receive a shipment of caterpillars. We spend a few days watching them eat, poop and grow!
After a while they attach to the paper at the top of the jar.
They form into chrysalides and we transfer them into their habitat.
We wait!
In the meantime, we provide a plastic toy model of the butterfly life cycle. This is one the children can touch and order in the stages of development.
We also have an art project. Butterfly painting.
We paint one side of the paper.
Then fold over.
If the paint has not already dried a bit… there will be a symmetrical butterfly.
And we wait….
and voila! In a second, the butterfly emerges! Usually you can tell which one will hatch next as the chrysalis becomes very dark.
We feed the butterflies sugar water for a day and make sure their wings are dried out and ready to be set free.
We bring the habitat outside and open the top. Usually the butterflies need a bit of help getting out.
They fly around for a bit before leaving us for good. This is especially thrilling for the children.
And one three year old was so inspired, he made his own butterfly out of blocks!
