Outdoor Learning: Build a DIY Bee Watering Station and Learn About Pollinators

Activity Description:

Help support local pollinators by building a simple bee watering station! This hands-on outdoor science activity teaches kids about the importance of bees, their role in the ecosystem, and how small actions can help protect them.

How to Do It:

1. Gather Materials

• A shallow dish, plate, or small bowl

• Small pebbles, marbles, or glass beads

• Water

• A few flowers or leaves for decoration (optional)

2. Assemble the Bee Watering Station

• Place pebbles or marbles inside the dish. These provide landing spots for bees so they don’t drown while drinking.

• Fill the dish with water, making sure the pebbles remain above the waterline to give bees a safe place to rest.

3. Find the Best Location

• Place the watering station in a sunny, quiet area of your garden, near flowers or plants that attract pollinators.

• Make sure it’s in a spot where bees can easily find it but away from busy pathways.

4. Observe and Learn About Pollinators

• Watch for bees, butterflies, and other insects visiting the watering station.

• Teach kids about why bees need water (to cool their hive and mix with nectar).

• Discuss the role of pollinators in helping plants grow and why they are important for food production.

5. Keep the Water Fresh

• Check the station daily and refill it with clean water.

• Remove debris like leaves or dirt to keep it safe for bees.

• In very hot weather, add water more frequently to prevent it from drying out.

6. Expand the Learning

• Research different types of bees and their roles in a hive (worker bees, queen bees, drones).

• Learn how flowers depend on bees for pollination.

• Talk about why bee populations are declining and how people can help (planting wildflowers, avoiding pesticides).

7. Encourage More Pollinators

• Plant bee-friendly flowers like lavender, sunflowers, or wildflowers.

• Create a small bee hotel using hollow plant stems or drilled wood for solitary bees.

• Learn about butterfly gardens and how to attract other pollinators.

8. Make It a Fun Challenge

• Keep a log of how many bees or butterflies visit each day.

• Try different water sources (plain water vs. slightly sweetened water) and see which attracts more bees.

• Draw or take pictures of the insects that visit and identify them with a field guide.

Bonus Tip:

If it rains, let kids see how much water naturally collects in the dish and discuss how bees find water in the wild.

This fun outdoor learning activity encourages kids to appreciate nature, develop a love for wildlife, and understand the critical role of pollinators in our environment.