Counting Caterpillar
Eric Carle's Very Series
on Goodreads (530,367)
What’s inside...
Counting Caterpillar is a delightful story that follows the journey of a curious caterpillar as it explores the world and learns to count. With the help of a finger puppet embedded in the book, young readers can engage in interactive play while developing their counting skills. The book also includes die cuts and is a beautiful board book edition, perfect for teaching the days of the week, offering readers an interactive experience.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
1-3
Length
26 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the caterpillar will do after it finishes counting all the items?
Why do you think the caterpillar likes to count things?
Can you imagine what the caterpillar might count next?
How do you feel when you count along with the caterpillar?
What other things would you like to count with the caterpillar?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to count along with the caterpillar, reinforcing the numbers and improving numeracy skills.
Ask your child to predict what objects the caterpillar might count next, fostering imagination and anticipation.
Discuss the various colors and shapes in the book, enhancing their observation skills and vocabulary.
After reading, encourage your child to count items around the house or in a park, turning a simple activity into an educational experience.
Relate the counting to real life situations, such as counting apples in a basket, to make the concept more tangible.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Counting and number recognition
Explanation: Through the journey of the Counting Caterpillar, children are introduced to numbers as the caterpillar counts items it encounters, which helps in understanding and memorizing numbers.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by counting objects in their surroundings such as toys, steps, or snacks, enhancing their numerical skills in everyday situations.
Example Lesson: Sequence and order
Explanation: The story illustrates the concept of sequence as the Counting Caterpillar counts from one to ten, teaching children the order of numbers.
Real-World Application: This can be applied in a child’s daily life by encouraging them to follow sequences in tasks like arranging their books in order or setting the table, which helps in developing their logical thinking.
Example Lesson: Patience and persistence
Explanation: As the caterpillar encounters challenges but continues to count, the story conveys the importance of persistence and patience.
Real-World Application: Children can mirror this behavior by staying persistent in completing their homework, learning a new skill, or during playtime activities which may require extended effort and focus.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of nature
Explanation: The Counting Caterpillar interacts with various elements of nature throughout the book, fostering a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to explore their own environment, take interest in plants, animals, and overall ecological awareness.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The caterpillar frequently faces small problems or puzzles that it needs to solve through counting, which showcases basic problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children can use similar problem-solving approaches when facing puzzles, games, or challenges in their life, building critical thinking and analytical skills.