This simple butterfly craft is fun to do using nature's own materials - no glue required! I can't think of a better way to make a butterfly than with materials found in its natural habitat.

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When we see butterflies fluttering through the air in spring, we often see kids running behind them. These delicate insects are colorful, very agile, and able to soar across the lawn faster than their pursuers! 

The green butterfly is one of many different butterfly species. Our version of the green butterfly starts with a chestnut tree leaf. The wide span and individual leaflets of the chestnut leaf resemble butterfly wings. They inspired this nature craft.

Explore butterflies in books and videos to extend your study of these delightful insects. It's fun for kids to make as they learn about butterflies and their habitats.

Green leaf butterfly

We have a wooded area behind our house where we are able to collect natural materials, including chestnut tree leaves and small twigs. 

You can easily substitute other types of leaves, even artificial ones, for this craft idea. Kids can make butterflies using any materials you have on hand.

If you are using a chestnut leaf for this activity, remove the middle leaflet, leaving two on either side for wings.

Lay the wings over the twig. Secure the leaf to the twig by wrapping the leaf stem around the twig. The stem is flexible and strong, and can be easily twisted around the twig.

Wrap another stem around the top and tie it once to make the antennae. 

This is the under side, showing the end of the stem tucked through the loop after it is wrapped around the twig.

It was a windy day when I took this photo. You can see the wings of the green butterfly lifting in the wind. Kids can help their butterfly wings flutter by waving the stick up and down gently. 

This is a fun outdoor activity using only natural materials. Although I said no glue required, go ahead and use string, white glue, or a glue gun at any time if it will help secure the leaf or stem to the twig.

The fun part is the process of exploring nature (taking a nature walk), gathering materials (choosing just the right leaf and twig) and creating a butterfly together.

For gross motor play, kids move their butterflies up and down to soar like the other butterflies.

More nature crafts!

Decorate small rocks to make Mud Kitchen Food from The Gingerbread House.

Gather flowers for a gorgeous Flower Petal Suncatcher from Play & Learn Everyday.

Create faces with this Nature Inspired Portraits activity from The Resourceful Mama. 

 Spring and Summer Activities for Kids