This term has been filled with excitement as we explored the fascinating world of butterfly lifecycles. The children have been captivated by our special delivery of caterpillars, which has provided a wonderful opportunity to learn about nature’s transformations firsthand. Using magnifying glasses, the children have carefully observed the tiny caterpillars, paying close attention to the smallest details whilst learning to handle the observation pots with care and respect. We’ve all been amazed watching them grow from tiny caterpillars into much larger ones, and some have already formed their cocoons. The children are now waiting patiently for the magical moment when they emerge as butterflies, which we plan to release together in our garden.
Our learning has been enriched through songs, stories, and creative activities that bring the lifecycle to life. The children have been enthusiastically singing ‘Tiny Caterpillar on a Leaf’, learning about the main stages of the butterfly lifecycle through music and actions that help develop their fine motor skills. We’ve been reading ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’, which has sparked conversations about counting and different types of food, whilst the children have also been drawing caterpillars and butterflies on whiteboards, using closed shapes and purposeful marks to include details like the number of legs and patterns on wings.
Creative expression has flourished as the children explore the theme through art and free play. They’ve been making their own caterpillars and butterflies using loose parts such as bottle tops and corks, combined with chalk, allowing their imagination to guide their creations. Additionally, the children have been colouring ‘Very Hungry Caterpillar’ sheets, making thoughtful colour choices while developing their concentration skills and mark-making abilities.
