National Trust: Ben Plants a Butterfly Garden
National Trust Out And About Series
What’s inside...
Ben is a bear who loves butterflies, and he wants to grow some flowers that will attract them to his garden. As Ben's garden grows, the life cycle of the butterfly is explained in simple terms by Worm and Ladybird. This lift-the-flap picture book allows children to follow Ben's journey as he plants his seeds and watches them grow. By lifting the flaps, children can also see the changes happening under the ground.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
16 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think butterflies need to be happy in their garden?
How do you feel when you see a butterfly? Can you describe it?
Why do you think Ben wanted to plant a butterfly garden?
Which flowers would you plant in your butterfly garden and why?
How can we help butterflies in our own backyard?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, reinforcing their understanding and empathy.
Relate the story to personal experiences, such as a time you both spent outdoors or encountered wildlife, to deepen the connection with the book’s themes.
Ask your child to imagine and describe their ideal butterfly garden. This can boost creativity and personal investment in the topic.
Discuss the importance of caring for the environment as depicted in the book, drawing parallels to everyday actions that make a difference.
Use expressive reading to bring the story to life, using different voices for characters or emphasizing exciting parts to make the reading experience engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Ben takes on the task of planting a butterfly garden, demonstrating the responsibilities involved in caring for nature.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to take care of their own small garden or help with household chores, understanding the importance of consistent care and effort.
Example Lesson: Patience
Explanation: The book shows that planting a garden and waiting for butterflies requires patience as nature takes its course.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child’s everyday life by teaching them to wait patiently for outcomes, whether it’s growing a plant, waiting for their turn, or achieving a goal.
Example Lesson: Environmental Awareness
Explanation: Through Ben's journey, children learn about different plants and butterflies, highlighting the importance of biodiversity and ecosystems.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore local flora and fauna, participate in recycling, and understand the impact of their actions on the environment.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: Designing and planting a butterfly garden allows Ben to use his imagination and creativity.
Real-World Application: Kids can be prompted to engage in creative activities such as gardening, crafting, or drawing, which stimulates cognitive growth and problem-solving skills.