Classroom Butterflies

Have you ever wondered how caterpillars transform into beautiful butterflies?

Butterflies are more than just a fluttering insect in the spring and summer months. These creatures provide great pollination for flowers, trees, and gardens. They also provide us with the knowledge of knowing that spring and summer are approaching.

Illinois 4-H in Alexander, Johnson, Massac, Pulaski, and Union Counties partnered with Illinois Ag in the Classroom to send out 100 butterfly kits to local schools. During the course of four weeks, over 2,000 youth across five counties have been able to witness this amazing transformation first hand. Over 500 butterflies will be released to help pollinate the growing spring flowers and gardens.

person holding yellow flower with monarch butterfly

Ms. Thomasson's first grade class at Jefferson Elementary School in Massac County enjoyed watching the transformation of the caterpillar into a butterfly. They were able to release the butterflies and watch them start eating nectar outside.

butterfly net on ground in middle of youth

Ms. Sheridan's Kindergarten class at Cobden Elementary School enjoyed observing the life cycle of the butterfly from start to finish. They were able to release their butterflies and watch them start their new life outside.