All About Caterpillars and Butterflies

It's spring and that means it is time to learn all about caterpillars and butterflies. Teaching about the lifecycle of the butterfly is one of my favorite science units. There is something magical about watching how a caterpillar can transform into a butterfly. Best of all the students get to watch this process as the metamorphosis occurs.

Caterpillars and butterfly activities for kindergarten

Where to Buy Caterpillars

To kick off our study of caterpillars and butterflies, I have to order caterpillars of course. This year I found that I could save money on shipping and order them through Amazon. They are still the same caterpillars from Insect Lore, but I am ordering through their Amazon store. If you have Amazon prime, it is free shipping. Order Caterpillars.

Books About Caterpillars and Butterflies

Over the years I have collected many books, both fiction and nonfiction to use during our butterfly week. I've linked several of these below. One of my latest finds is the companion book to The Very Impatient Caterpillar, called The Butterfly that Could. Just like the first book, this too is a great story for a read-aloud. It depicts a little butterfly who demonstrates perseverance. It sends a great message to the readers, keep trying and you too will persevere.

Caterpillar and Butterfly Activities

Some of my favorite in-class activities involve making butterfly lifecycle headbands and mobiles. The students always enjoy the mobiles as I let them use watercolors.

We also read an emergent reader about the butterfly.

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Videos About Butterflies

I also like to share different videos with my class. The videos below range from cute stories, to songs about migrating to Mexico and the lifecycle of the butterfly.