Where do these caterpillars come from?:
An investigation of Metamorphosis
At Smart Start, we give children many opportunities to witness and observe the life cycle of many animals. We are fortunate to be adjacent to a nature trail. Spending time on the nature trail and outside emerged into the children noticing many caterpillars climbing the trees and on the fence. They began asking questions. The teachers encouraged the children by bringing in these animals and observing the life cycles in the class. Children began to discuss their observations, and were encouraged to reflect, represent their ideas. Soon the children collected many caterpillars from home, the nature trail and the playground. Below is an example of one class's experience with the life cycle of a butterfly and its extension to other animals that have a life cycle change. Each experience required children to make predictions, identify through color, and examine the reasons for change.
A three year old student illustrates the “chrysalis” stage of the butterfly she observed in her class. She is also seen here explaining the life cycle of a butterfly using educational cards.
The children also predict what the caterpillars will become. The class has seen so many examples that they have used the internet to help them predict the type of butterfly or moth their caterpillars will become. They name all of their animals.
Spending time observing the children in the back corner, teachers listen and notice the extensive vocabulary and complex ideas conveyed by the children. Why does it seem that early childhood books teach that children are not capable of developing these concepts? Our teachers learn to shift their paradigm knowledge of children's developmental stages.
Our activities involve the deep and inquisitive interests of the children and deepen with their naturally occurring endless questioning.