How to Teach About a Butterfly Garden
Butterfly gardens provide a natural classroom for children. Kids can learn about the amazing way that nature performs during the life cycle of the butterfly with its many interesting steps. Teaching about a butterfly garden in the right sequence can ensure a positive learning experience.
- Obtain a butterfly kit that provides live caterpillar larvae. The kit must also have the right environment for the butterflies to grow as well as the nutrients they will need. Be sure to time the delivery close to the actual lesson. These are live creatures you are dealing with and you want to care for them properly and have them in the right stages for an effective lesson.
- Compile several books, magazine articles and Internet resources ahead of time with information about butterflies.
- Have worksheets and idea charts with butterfly designs and information available to supplement the lesson.
- Understand all the materials you have and how they work.
- Read all of the material you will use. After reading it, narrow it down or expand it depending on the age and ability of who you will be teaching.
- Run through the pace and materials of the lesson on your own.
- Recruit a trusted co-worker or friend to allow you to practice the lesson one more time. Be willing to take constructive criticism to improve your lesson.
- Enjoy the lesson while you give it. Students will feed off of your energy and learn more when they know you are excited about it. Your proper preparation will also have you ready of most questions making you the expert on butterfly gardens.