This activity promotes development and learning by encouraging children to develop increasing care for self, others, and the environment.

Materials Needed:

• “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle
• Paper and writing implements
• Prepared fruit, such as cut apples, oranges, kiwis,
  strawberries, or grapes
• Toothpicks

Participants: This activity is intended for independent play, or adult/child interaction.

Directions:

1. Read the story “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” or watch an online version. Point out the beautiful colors of the fruit.
2. Draw a graph on a piece of paper. Title the graph, “Our Favorite Fruits.”
3. Help your child interview family members, asking them what their favorite fruit is. Complete the graph, using the information you gain.
4. Use the prepared fruit and the toothpicks to make structures, such as pyramids and squares. Place fruit at each end of a toothpick to make a building piece. Use toothpicks to put the building pieces together.

Learn More: Try writing your own version of the story. Maybe it’s “The Very Hungry Panda” or “The Very Hungry Chicken.” What would those animals eat? Explore the life cycle of a butterfly or find out how fruit grow. What is the difference between a stone fruit, a berry, and a vine fruit?