Learning About Bats
Kids are naturally curious about bats—they’re mysterious, a little strange, and tied perfectly to Halloween themes. Talking about bats in the classroom is also a great opportunity to weave in some science learning, build vocabulary, and strengthen writing skills and explore non-fiction texts.
Bat Craft
This bat craft is simple enough for preschool and early elementary students, but still engaging for older learners who enjoy hands-on projects. The resource includes a bat template that can be used with a large piece of black construction paper to create a bat. I recommend creating a few templates for students to trace.
Next, students will add eyes and a smile! This craft can be used with any fiction or non-fiction book about bats.
Bat Books
This bat craft and writing activity can be paired with any bat book! Here are a few of my favorites:
Non-Fiction Bat Books
DK Super Readers All About Bats
Fiction Bat Books
Stellaluna by Janell Cannon
This classic picture book tells the story of Stellaluna, a baby fruit bat who becomes separated from her mother and is raised by a family of birds. As Stellaluna tries to fit in with her feathered friends, she learns about differences and similarities, and ultimately reunites with her bat family. A heartwarming tale of friendship, identity, and belonging.
Fiona the Fruit Bat by Dan Riskin
This sweet, lyrical story introduces Fiona, a young fruit bat who is nervous about flying for the first time. With encouragement from her mother, Fiona learns to trust her instincts and discovers the beauty of the night sky. It’s a reassuring tale about courage, independence, and trying new things.
Bat Writing Activities
The bat craft can be paired with any kind of bat writing. This is a great way to make a fun craft educational.
Story Sequence Writing
This is a great craft to pair with story sequencing. Students can write or draw a pictures of what happened at the beginning, middle or end of any fiction book. Next, students can cut out each part of the story and glue them in the correct order on the bat’s wings.
Bat Non Fiction Writing
Students can also pair this bat craft with non fiction writing. Young students can complete a circle or bubble map with words or phrase.
Older students can also write write facts about bats using these writing pages.
More Halloween Fun:
Looking for more Halloween learning activities to add to your lesson plans? Here are a few seasonal favorites:
Halloween Rhyming Words Worksheet and Activities
Free Printable Spider Craft to Teach Kids Math
Bat Craft and Writing Activity
October is such a magical month in the classroom, and this Bat Craft and Writing activity is the perfect way to capture that excitement while keeping students engaged in meaningful learning. With its simple prep and multiple writing options, it’s an activity that both you and your students will look forward to year after year!