Caterpillar Friends : A Tutorial

Our caterpillar friends have been visiting us quite frequently lately. I can't get over how often we are finding them in our woods. We celebrated them and our summer season (caterpillars and butterflies are some of the first things that come to my mind when I think of summer) by making our own caterpillars for the nature table and imaginative play. I thought I would share how we made them with you. It's a very simple craft, easy for your child to make.



One thing I really like about this project is that it helps to teach patience and discourage instant gratification. It was completed over the course of two days. We painted them on our painting day (Friday) and then finished them on the following craft day (Tuesday). I didn't tell the girls what they were when we made them. When we painted them they were excited that they were painting something they never had before. Then when we started putting them together on their craft day, they figured out what they were. I was happy we did it this way because they were like a big surprise gift to them.I think it made them even more special.



Caterpillars

Materials Needed:
- paper egg cartons, cut into 2, 3, or 4 sections (your choice!)
- paint brushes
- paint
- pipe cleaners
- colored paper
- scissors
- glue





Start your caterpillars by first painting the cup sections (C's favorite part) and then set aside to let them dry. If you choose to, you may add eyes, too. We left ours without.





Cut a strip of colored paper the same length as that of the cup section,and about two inches wide or so. Snip along one of the long edges making feet. Glue the painted cup section to this strip, cup side up.

Bend the pipe cleaner to a 'V' shape. Using the tip of your scissors make a tiny hole where you want the caterpillar's antennas to be. Stick the point of the 'V' into this hole and glue it on the inside.



Let them dry and then watch your child's imagination take flight as they play with their new caterpillar friends!

Also, for anyone that might be local:

The Search and Rescue K-9 Unit that Kevin volunteers with is having a garage sale to help raise money. They are asking for any donations you may have. If you have any questions you can contact me or the person listed on the flyer. Thanks for your help!!

See you tomorrow for our weekly rhythm post.

Caterpillar Friends : A Tutorial