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Introducing life cycles to young learners is a perfect way to introduce science concepts to children. Life cycles allow for scientific inquiry, curiosity and growing the appreciation for life, growth, and change.

You can easily connect animal life cycles to a child’s own growth and development. You can ask your class who has lost their teeth, have they outgrown shoes/clothing, etc. Children recognize and are able to identify the changes they go through which can help them understand all living things change and grow.

Often, teachers think of teaching life cycles through worksheets, videos, etc. If you are able, I highly recommend tracking down a way to either hatch your own chicks, butterflies, etc. It is really not as hard as it seems, and the children are super engaged while observing real animals in the classroom.

Some activities that are useful no matter if you are hatching animals or not able to are as follows:

• Life cycle crafts: This is a hands-on way to create memorable experiences for your class. Also, don’t forget the fine motor skills being developed while young learner’s craft!
• Life cycle easy readers: Reading decodable words while learning about the science topic being taught in class is an amazing way to hit multiple learning goals at once!
• Themed writing prompts: Children typically enjoy writing creativity-especially about animals. Students can develop their writing skills and deepen their learning about the life cycle of animals.
• Visuals: During units of life cycles, I always display posters of each stage to give students a visual to remember. Some students remember clip-art better, while others remember real photographs. I am always sure to offer both to reach all types of visual learners.

If these types of activities sound like exactly what you are looking for your class, check out the below resource! It is made up of 3 different activity sets and some free resources, so be sure to check out everything included as I am sure there is something for everyone!

Happy learning and growing!

-Meredith (Human behind all things Miss Meredith Made)