Finding Symmetry in Nature

Symmetry Is All Around Us

Symmetry is all around us in summertime. Children are fascinated with insects, flowers and other natural objects that are symmetrical.  This is an opportunity to talk about some math concepts and make beautiful symmetrical objects in nature.

  There are two main types of symmetry: rotational and reflection. When children point the top or bottom of pine cones at their nose they can see that both sides of the swirl or rotation are the same.  If children look at a butterfly and cover one half going north and south, they will see both sides are the same (reflection). If they place a little mirror down the center (going north and south) they will see the reflection is exactly like the other half.

Collect Nature

  When families go on car trips or hikes they can collect symmetrical clam shells, leaves, flowers, rocks, insects, or take close up pictures of them.

Two Main Types of Symmetry

Point out to children that their bodies and shadows are symmetrical, too. Is their house symmetrical? Look at family pets. When they are observed at certain angles are they symmetrical? 

 This easy art project is another way to play with symmetry. Gather some drinking straws to use as eye droppers for colors of poster paint, markers, sheets of paper, small stones, or art jewels.

  Help children fold a paper in half either the long way or short way. Open the paper and drop several colors of paint from the straw “eye droppers” onto one half of the paper next to the fold line. Children can now fold the paper over the paint. Rub gently over the paper to blend the colors. Open the paper and talk about the “blobby” shape that has appeared. Point out that what is on one side of the fold is also on the other side of the fold. Look for the symmetry.

Symmetry Search

  While the paint is drying, search for symmetry in leaves, flowers, pine cones, insects, and other objects in your own back yard. Children often enjoy taking 

 Close-Ups of Insects on Flowers

close up pictures of colorful insects on bright flowers that are also symmetrical. Use a magnifying glass and study some insects or spiders you find. Talk about what makes them spiders and insects the same and different.

  Once the paint is dry children can use markers to add antennae, wings, eyes and legs. To make the new insect even more beautiful children may want glue on craft jewels. They can name the new insect and put it on display.

  Some books about symmetry include: “What is Symmetry in Nature?” by Bobbie Kalman and “Is it Symmetrical?” by Nancy Allen. 

Photos: Fran Darling - fdarling fotos

  For more science and math STEM adventures go to -  grandparentsteachtoo.blogspot.com and wnmufm.org/Learning Through the Seasons live Tuesdays at 4:30pm and Saturdays at 8:30 am and pod casts archived on the site.