Grades K-4 Activity = Math, Art

Materials Needed: Colored construction paper (for headbands); White paper (for the butterfly templates); Crayons; Tissue Paper; Paints; Pipe Cleaners; Scissors; Glue/glue sticks; Stapler; Tape Measure.

How about wearing butterfly headdresses at this year's party? They can be easily made from white and/or colored construction paper, and can be a further exercise in practicing symmetry.

Using the butterfly model as a template (found on page 16), cut butterflies from white or colored construction paper. Have students decorate with glitter, crayons, paint, or tissue paper. You can pre-cut or tear the tissue. Paper-tearing gives it a soft edge.

Then, using a measuring tape, measure around each child's head. Cut a 2-inch wide headband from colored construction paper that measures 2-inches longer than the distance around his/her head (for example, if the child's head measures 14 inches around, cut the length of the paper to 16 inches). Have kids pair off and measure each other, then do the addition of 2 extra inches themselves!

Staple the center bottom of the finished butterfly to the middle of the headband. Put the headdress on the child's head, and staple the loose ends together, so the headdress fits snugly, but can still be removed. If you're feeling especially creative, attach pipe cleaners to the butterfly's head as antennae!

Party favors:
butterfly blowers
All ages Activity = Art

Materials Needed: Party blowers; Variety of wrapping papers or construction paper; Scissors; Tape.

We think the part of a party blower that "uncurls" looks like a butterfly's proboscis! By following these instructions, your class can make imaginative, butterfly blowers for party favors.

1. Go to a party supply store and purchase party blowers in bulk, one per student (with a few extras in case of blowouts).

2. Using wrapping paper or construction paper, have students cut out wings for their butterfly (use butterfly template on page 16 or design your own!).

3. Fold butterfly in half along the body, and make two small cuts - parallel to each other (teachers can make the cuts, or have older students help younger children).

4. Slide the stem of the party blower through both holes, with the decorated side up (facing the curled "proboscis").

5. Secure the butterfly to the party blower using a piece of tape.

Now have fun helping your butterfly drink nectar with its proboscis!