Dear Parents and Child Care Providers,

This month, we’re celebrating the beauty of patience through the vibrant and uplifting story Señorita Mariposa by Ben Gundersheimer. As families follow the monarch butterfly’s incredible journey, children discover that growth, transformation, and resilience take time. The story gently reminds us all, little ones and adults, that patience is not just about waiting, but about trusting the process and finding wonder in each step along the way.

With its rhythmic bilingual text and colorful illustrations, Señorita Mariposa opens the door to conversations about nature, perseverance, and appreciating the small moments that lead to big change. Join us as we explore this joyful celebration of transformation and the mindful patience it inspires.

STORY

Señorita Mariposa by Ben Gundersheimer

ACTIVITY

This month, we’re creating a Butterfly Rest Stop, a small, welcoming space that honors the patience and perseverance of monarch butterflies on their long journey. As children build their rest stop, they’ll learn that even the smallest acts of care can support big transformations in nature.

Materials You’ll Need for the activity:

1. Cotton balls
2. Sugar
3. Water
4. Flowers
5. A container for the rest stop

SONG

“Señorita Mariposa”

This month’s featured song, “Señorita Mariposa” by the book’s author Ben Gundersheimer (Mister G), brings the magic of the monarch butterfly to life through joyful music and rhythm. Just like the story, the song celebrates patience, transformation, and the incredible journey that unfolds when we pause to appreciate nature’s wonders.

With its upbeat bilingual lyrics and lively melody, Señorita Mariposa invites children and families to move, sing, and explore the beauty of waiting, growing, and trusting the process, one fluttering wing at a time.

Play the song, dance along, and let the music inspire conversations about patience and all the small steps that lead to big change.

We’ll see you at the next First Fridays!