This classic story of a hungry caterpillar munching through lots of different types of food is a great starting point for an adventure about how things change.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a much-loved story that offers lots of opportunity for learning.
As you read point how how the caterpillar is transforming along his journey.
Can you use the book to wonder what the most delicious food would be for the caterpillar?
Set up a tunnel to enter the magical world of the caterpillar.
Make or find a magnifying glass, and get some map making supplies ready.
Have some butterfly wings ready to go.
Leave some special caterpillar foods about the garden.
At the end of the trail, leave some fabric to be able to cocoon the caterpillar so he can transform.
Make a recording saying:
'Help! This is the hungry caterpillar! I am very hungry and can’t get to the delicious food because a hungry bird wants to eat ME. Can you help find me a safe path?
Enter the playworld and imagine that you are all as big as a caterpillar.
Play in the garden. Imagine all the different things the caterpillar might need to think about.
Play is such an important way that children develop their imagination and they love it when an adult is involved.
When you are in the middle of your adventure, play your voice recording. How will you help?
Can you help make a safe path through the garden to all the delicious food?
Exit your PlayWorld and get to work. Draw your safe route.
Do you need to build some obstacles to stop the birds like a cover for the caterpillar or some shiny things to distract the bird?
When you are ready, go back into the PlayWorld with your map and mark out the safe path.
Then as caterpillars follow the path, munch the food and transform into butterflies.
You have used problem-solving skills and empathy to map a safe path for the caterpillar. You’ve also learned about a butterfly’s lifecycle.