Insects are one of the most diverse groups of animals on Earth with thousands of known species. They play an essential role in our ecosystem, helping to pollinate plants and making the world a colorful place. Here are five reading and learning activities designed to engage your child in an exploration of butterflies, bees, and other bugs.
1. Read The Mysterious Neighbor
A new family has moved next door to Lily’s family. She wants to make friends with their daughter, Ana, but there is something mysterious about her. Why is Ana acting so strangely?
- Download The Mysterious Neighbor
Discuss the book: What are some things that Lily and Ana have in common? How does Lily feel when she thinks Ana keeps changing her mind? What is the solution to the mystery?
2. Watch Zoom In
Watch the video Zoom In to find out what three kids learn when they observe a small area closely.
Discuss the video: What did the kids observe outside in the patch of grass or in the tree? What did we see in the doorway? Name something you’d like to observe outside.
You can extend the fun by choosing a spot in or near your own home to observe. What do you see? You might want to create your own video to show your observations.
3. Write a new ending
Think of a different way that Lily might have solved the mystery. Write a new ending for the story.
You can extend the activity by designing a new book cover. Make sure to include insects as part of the cover art!
More to read!
For more reading about insects, download The Smart Swarm.
4. Learn more about insects
- Look in nonfiction books or online to find information about a bug or insect. What do they look like? What do they eat? How do they move?
- Write a brief description of your bug or insect.
- Draw a picture of the insect and label its parts.
You can extend the activity by creating a presentation of your findings.
5. Use symmetry
- Cut a butterfly shape and fold it in half.
- Paint a design on one side.
- Fold your butterfly again. What happens to the paint?
You can extend the activity by doing it again with another bug shape.
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Find more language arts activities for Grades 3-5.
This blog, originally published in 2020, has been updated for 2025.
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