The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Introduce children to growth, healthy eating, and the magic of transformation with The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle, a timeless favourite in early childhood programs. This beautifully illustrated story follows a tiny caterpillar as he hatches from his egg and munches his way through a week’s worth of foods—growing, learning, and eventually transforming into a vibrant butterfly.

Perfect for infant, toddler, and preschool settings, this book is a powerful teaching tool for:

• Early literacy development – predictable text, repetition, and simple sequencing

• Emergent numeracy – counting foods and exploring the days of the week

• Science concepts – life cycles, growth, and healthy eating habits

• Language expansion – rich vocabulary and opportunities for open-ended discussion

Whether you’re using this story during circle time, planning an activity, or enhancing your theme-based curriculum, The Very Hungry Caterpillar supports key learning objectives in a fun and engaging way. It’s an essential title for any ECE program or childcare centre looking to nurture curiosity and early learning through storytelling.