Butterflies' Banquet

This activity is designed for preschool and primary school levels. Children will have the opportunity to contribute to nature’s cycle by learning about the feeding habits of butterflies. By hanging various fruit slices on tree branches, they support the nourishment of butterflies and observe the beauty that nature offers up close. Through this experience, they not only gain an understanding of ecological balance but also develop a sense of responsibility towards nature.

Objective of the Activity:

 To encourage children's interest in nature.

 To raise awareness about "Nature" and "Environment" in children.

 To help children understand the balance of nature and the importance of ecosystems.

 To provide children with knowledge about animals and biodiversity.

 To increase children's sensitivity to nature and support the development of environmental consciousness.

 To encourage children's curiosity and discovery by allowing them to observe nature.

 To help children understand that all animals have a place, a role, and a purpose within the environment.

 To support the development of children's fine motor skills and enhance their hand-eye coordination.

First the Story

Ruka and Tako took a few fruits from the kitchen and went out to the garden. Their plan was to have a small picnic while enjoying their snacks. Since it was springtime, the garden was filled with flowers of all sizes and colors. Just in front of where they sat, a beautifully colored butterfly landed on a flower. Ruka, mesmerized, started watching the butterfly in awe.

Materials

Activity

Children are provided with various soft fruits such as oranges, bananas, watermelons, and pears. First, they work together to cut these fruits into small slices. During the slicing process, a brief discussion can be held about the inner structure and scent of the fruits.

The sliced fruit pieces are carefully tied with string and hung on tree branches. At this stage, children can be taught that butterflies can taste with their feet and smell with their antennae. This information helps them better understand the feeding behaviors of butterflies.

Once the fruits are placed on the branches, children can observe the butterflies and experience the natural food chain in action. They can carefully examine how butterflies approach the fruits and which types they prefer. During the observation process, it can be emphasized that every living being in nature has a role and that maintaining the balance of the ecosystem is essential.

After completing their observations, children can share their experiences with each other, making the activity even more enjoyable. They can try to identify different butterfly species they have discovered and discuss their findings about fruit consumption. By the end of the activity, having helped the butterflies and contributed to nature, the children will have gained environmental awareness and formed a stronger bond with the natural world.

Attention!

Sharp tools such as knives or scissors should be used under adult supervision.

Ensure that the fruits being hung do not contain any chemicals or pesticides.

It is important to use natural string for hanging the fruit slices and to avoid leaving plastic or harmful materials in nature.

Keep in mind that over time, the fruit slices may rot and attract insects and bees. Children should be informed and cautioned about bees.

The activity should be conducted in a way that does not harm the natural habitat of butterflies.

During the observation period, children should remain quiet and avoid disturbing the butterflies.

After the activity, check the area for any leftover fruit residues and ensure that nature is kept clean.

Evaluation Questions

 Why do butterflies drink nectar from flowers?

 How do butterflies contribute to nature?

 Why is a clean environment important for butterflies to survive?

 Which butterfly species did you observe during the activity?

 Besides butterflies, which other insects showed interest in the fruits?

 If you were a butterfly, which fruit would you like to eat? Why?

 How do you think living beings in nature are connected to each other?