Butterflies fascinate kids. There is just so much to learn about these winged creatures. From the metamorphosis of a caterpillar to its many contributions to nature – these books provide all the information children need to know. With brilliant pictures and simple text, these books are ideal for toddlers, preschoolers, kindergarten kids.

Butterfly Picture books -toddler, Preschooler, Kinder

butterfly books for kids

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Our Top 3 picks:

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A funny read-aloud about a small caterpillar’s transformation
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Fascinating story about the migration of Monarch butterflies
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Learn all about different species of butterflies

Check out these 16 amazing reads about butterflies for toddlers, preschoolers and kindergarteners.

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Ten Little Caterpillars introduces children to the fascinating world of caterpillars to the moth or butterflies they turn into. Kids will read about buckeye, yellow bear, mourning cloak, and other types of caterpillars.

The information provided is scientific, and the story helps practice counting for kids. Each page has one large captivating illustration along with a single line of text. Suitable for Toddlers to kindergarten kids. (Ages 2-8)

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The Very Impatient Caterpillar is an amazing book on the metamorphosis – caterpillars transforming into butterflies. The story is narrated through the dialogues of an impatient caterpillar who is not happy about the long waiting time to transform.

The text is hilarious, complemented by whimsical art. The book packs in enough scientific information for children to understand the basic process. (Ages 3-6)

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Where Butterflies Grow narrates how black swallowtail butterflies grow from caterpillars. The pictures are detailed, and the explanation provided helps children learn about the process. (Ages 5-8)

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Caterpillar to Butterfly by National Geographic Kids takes kids through the journey of a Monarch butterfly. Each page has one big picture with different stage and just a line of simple text explaining it.

This nonfiction board book works as a good introduction to butterfly lifecycle for toddlers.(Ages 2-5 years)

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Waiting for Wings narrates the life cycle of four common butterflies. Be fascinated watching tiny eggs transform into huge caterpillars and then to beautiful butterflies. Different parts of the butterfly are labeled for easy identification.

The book works as a complete guide with flowers facts and tips on starting a butterfly garden. Simple rhyming text and breathtaking pictures make this book popular with young kids. (Ages 2-6 years)

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Gotta Go! Gotta Go! tracks the migration of Monarch butterflies from the central and eastern United States to the mountains of Mexico. Every autumn, millions of butterflies this journey.

The text is simple, and the pictures are bright and captivating. The sing-song repetition of “I gotta go, I gotta go, I gotta go to Mexico” will stay with the kids long after the story is over. (Ages 2-6 years)

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The Little Butterfly That Could by Ross Burach. This fictional story delivers a very powerful message to impatient young kids. Read the comical story where a little butterfly thought it could not make the long journey of migration.

But then, really it could. The comical dialogues are sure to strike a chord with preschool and kindergarten kids. (Ages 4-8 years)

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CRUNCHING MUNCHING CATERPILLAR The caterpillar is tired of just munching. And can not wait enough for the day it can fly. Finally the day comes when it transforms into a beautiful butterfly with wings.

The lifecycle of the butterfly explained from the perspective of a preschooler. A perfect book to remind kids to put in the work. Things always works out in their own time. (Ages 2-4 years)

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Elmer and Butterfly by David McKee. Elmer, the elephant, found a butterfly stuck behind a fallen branch and rescued it by moving the branch. In return, the butterfly promised Elmer to help when needed.

The big elephant chuckled to himself at the thought. But soon, one day Elmer finds himself in danger. Can the butterfly help?

The distinctive artwork makes the picture and story stand out. It is a perfect read-aloud book in a preschool or kindergarten classroom.(Ages 4-9 years)

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Bob and Otto by Robert O. Bruel (Author), Nick Bruel (Illustrator). Bob, the caterpillar, and Otto, the worm, are best friends. They play together on the grass.

Read how their friendship takes shape once they grow up. Bob becomes a beautiful butterfly and flies up, while Otto the worm digs the earth and lives underground.

A charming story with real-life lessons for small kids. (Ages 2-4 years)

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The Butterfly Alphabet Book Dive into the fascinating world of winged creatures with this nonfiction picture book. And learn A to Z of butterflies while practicing alphabets.

Each page details one particular species of butterflies, starting with one letter of the alphabet. So read about Apollo, Baltimore, or Cracker butterflies, and see the images of them in their natural habitat. (Ages 4-8 years)

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Born to Be a Butterfly Read the exciting journey of a caterpillar from the cocoon to the sky. With simple text and stunning images, this book is suitable for beginner readers. (Ages 5-7 years)

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Butterfly Park A little girl moved into a new town and was thrilled to find a butterfly park nearby. But as she ventured inside, there were no butterflies.

Determined to get butterflies, she tries her best and finally engages the local community in her endeavor. Read this charming story about making a difference, community, and friendship.

The paper cut illustrations by Elly MacKay are extraordinary. (Ages 3-6 years)

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From Caterpillar to Butterfly A caterpillar comes to a school in a glass jar. Children watch the insect transform as it eats, grows, and metamorphoses into a beautiful butterfly.

A book encouraging kids to explore hands-on experiences. (Ages 2-6 years)

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Moth & Butterfly: Ta Da! is a charming story of two caterpillar friends. They spend time together growing. However, one ends up turning into a moth, and the other transforms into a butterfly.

Read how their friendship continues despite differences. The illustrations are elegant and engaging. (Ages 3-7 years)

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Not a Butterfly Alphabet Book Read about Atlas Moth, Green Lips Moth, and more – there is one type for each one of the alphabet. This one is an entertaining page-turner.
(Ages 3-7 years)

Also check out these simple butterfly craft projects for kids.

Watch this amazing video about how to raise Monarch butterflies at home.

Curtesy: urbanecologycenter