We have been observing the children inspecting the classroom and playground spaces for bugs, so we thought it would be a good idea to bring the Butterfly Conservatory to increase our understandings.
The visit from the Butterfly Conservatory provided a rich opportunity for hands-on, inquiry-based learning. The carefully arranged environment allowed children to engage their senses and concentration skills, sparking curiosity and fostering a deeper understanding of the natural world.
As part of the experience, the children explored the life cycle of the Darkling beetle. They observed how it begins as a worm-like larva, transitions into a pupa, and eventually transforms into a large black beetle. This exploration supported early scientific thinking by helping children make connections between different insect life cycles, including comparisons to the well-known metamorphosis of butterflies.
Our entomological journey continued with the introduction of “Millie,” a friendly millipede with 400 legs who enjoys eating fruits and vegetables. This encounter provided an opportunity to expand our vocabulary and knowledge about invertebrates and their unique characteristics.
We were also introduced to a Thorny Devil Stick Insect from northern Australia. The children learned that this fascinating creature is nocturnal—resting during the day and becoming active at night—prompting discussions about animal behaviors and adaptations.
Throughout the experience, language development was strongly supported. Children were encouraged to ask questions, make observations, and share new knowledge with their peers. These conversations fostered critical thinking, collaborative learning, and expressive language skills.
To conclude, we gathered for a calming, interactive story about a caterpillar. This storytelling session helped reinforce key concepts about insect life cycles while also supporting self-regulation and emotional well-being through a soothing, shared group experience.
