Merry Christmas from the Very Hungry Caterpillar
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Series
on Goodreads (225)
What’s inside...
This festive book follows the Very Hungry Caterpillar as he celebrates Christmas and all the excitement that comes with it. It's a book that captures the joy of the holiday season through the eyes of one of children's literature's most beloved characters. Christmas is about sharing with others and giving gifts with love. The book features Eric Carle's bright and distinctive artwork of favourite things, from sparkling stars and snowy scenes, with The Very Hungry Caterpillar making an appearance alongside each one. It is the perfect gift for Christmas, celebrating the magic of the season and the various ways to wish loved ones a wonderful holiday.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
0-5
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
The Very Hungry Caterpillar
Discussion points
How do you think the Very Hungry Caterpillar feels about Christmas?
What are some ways the Caterpillar shows his excitement for the holiday?
Can you think of any traditions your family has that might make someone else feel as happy as the Caterpillar?
What is your favorite part of Christmas and why?
If you could give a gift to the Very Hungry Caterpillar, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, match your child’s enthusiasm with animated expressions and voice modulations to make the story come alive.
Encourage your child to relate their personal experiences with Christmas or other family celebrations to the story.
Ask your child to draw their favorite scene from the book, then discuss why they chose that particular scene.
Create a festive reading nook with holiday decorations to make reading this book a special Christmas tradition.
After reading, encourage your child to think about how they can spread joy like the Caterpillar during the holiday season.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Generosity
Explanation: The Very Hungry Caterpillar shows the act of gift-giving without expecting anything in return, highlighting the joy of generosity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to share toys and snacks with their friends and understand that giving can be as rewarding as receiving.
Example Lesson: Gratitude
Explanation: Throughout the book, different characters express gratitude for simple, heartfelt gifts, showcasing the importance of being thankful.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice saying 'thank you' for meals, help, or gifts, fostering an attitude of appreciation from an early age.
Example Lesson: Celebration of Traditions
Explanation: The book features elements of traditional Christmas celebrations, reinforcing the value of cultural and family traditions.
Real-World Application: Children can participate in family holiday preparations and rituals, helping to strengthen familial bonds and cultural identity.
Example Lesson: Joy of Anticipation
Explanation: The narrative builds excitement towards Christmas day, conveying the magical anticipation that surrounds festive seasons.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to look forward to and prepare for significant events such as birthdays, festivals, or school events, enhancing their emotional development.
Example Lesson: Colors and Counting Education
Explanation: Eric Carle uses distinctive, vibrant colors and a variety of items to count through the pages, which can teach color recognition and basic counting.
Real-World Application: Engage children in counting everyday objects and recognizing colors in their environment, supporting their cognitive and observational skills.