Friday, September 12, 2008

Caterpillars, Chrysalises, and Butterflies -- Oh, My!

What an exciting week!  The science center has definitely become a popular spot, as the children are eager to watch all of the changes occurring inside of our butterfly house.  This week, we found another caterpillar crawling on a milkweed plant, saw one of our chrysalises turn clear, saw our first butterfly emerge, found our first egg on a milkweed leaf, and we set our first butterfly free.  

I am so proud of how well the class has been taking care of the caterpillars and soon-to-be-butterflies.  When we set our first butterfly free this afternoon, it was a touching moment.  We sang a "Good-bye, Butterfly" song and watched it fly up and land in a nearby tree.  The children waved, blew kisses, and were hugging each other with delight -- all spontaneously.  It brings a smile to my face as I write about it!  We have such a great group of kids!

This weekend, ask your child about what changes they've been seeing in the butterfly house.  Ask them what they are hoping will happen next week.  I will try to post many of my science pictures some time this weekend, so check back soon for a butterfly slideshow!

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

We heard all about the butterfly that was released today as soon as Carstyn jumped in the car. She has so loved raising the butterflies and loves sharing class stories. Thank you!!!!!
Michelle Klosterman

Stacie Cooper said...

This is so awesome and something that even I have never seen before from start to finish. Miles has been telling me about the caterpillers and chrysalises and how they let the butterfly go. what a beautiful lesson and experience for all the kids. Thank you!

Becky Leland said...

Thank you so much for your informative blog. I love to read and see what Miles and his class mates are doing.

Thank you again, Miles' "MaMa"
Flat Rock,N.C.

Anonymous said...

Portia told me all about the butterflies!! This has been a wonderful experience for her, and has helped with her bug phobia, too!