It’s easy to see why kids love Eric Carle’s books; the art is colorful and inviting, the stories are exciting, and there’s always something new to learn. These fun kid crafts make excellent companions to Carle’s well-loved books: everything from The Very Hungry Caterpillar to 10 Rubber Ducks.
Balloon painted caterpillar
Balloon painting is a great way to teach early learners about the many different methods and mediums that can be used to make art, plus what kid doesn’t love balloons?
Painted mixed-up chameleons
This is a great craft to get your kids experimenting with texture and technique in paint, and it pays homage to Carle’s own special collage technique that’s made his books so distinct.
“The Very Quiet Cricket” I spy jar
These “I spy” jars are a cute companion craft to The Very Quiet Cricket, plus they’re a very quiet activity, too! Kids can put all kinds of goodies in the jar and then spin it round to find what they’ve hidden.
Firefly suncatchers
Made of contact and construction paper, this firefly suncatcher is a pretty durable craft and one you’ll be able to hang on to long after your kids are ready to move on from their beloved board books.
Mixed-up creatures
Having your child create their very own “mixed-up creatures” will get their little imaginations firing on all cylinders, and you’ll be amazed by the combinations they come up with.
Pasta bead caterpillars
For the kinetic learner, these poseable caterpillars are a real treat. The pipe cleaner is so much easier to thread through beads than string, which means littler hands can get in on the action.
“Lonely Firefly” lanterns
These jars are just plain pretty, and they make great nightlights on dark evenings. Remember, the more you make, the less lonely the firefly!
Paper plate duck
For the much younger crowd, this paper plate duck inspired by 10 Rubber Ducks is a great way to get toddlers in on the crafting action inspired by a book they love.
“Very Hungry Caterpillar” necklace
This very hungry caterpillar craft uses small shapes, dyed noodles and yarn, so you’ll want to save it for the older kids, since it’s a little tricky. Long live the noodle-bead necklace!
Handprint flower craft
The Tiny Seed is a favorite among older Eric Carle fans, with its story about a triumphant little seed growing into a beautiful flower. This neat flower craft will make a great keepsake for you, too.
Construction paper spider
This paper plate spider is the kind of spider you’ll want hanging around the house, and little hands will stay plenty busy learning how to cut and glue.
Egg carton caterpillar
This egg carton caterpillar is a great way to use up some recyclables after storytime, and give kids something special to hold on to after they read through one of Carle’s best-loved books.
Paper plate hermit crab
This little crab craft will go great with a discussion about A House for Hermit Crab, a Carle book about a friendly crab who carries his home and his friends with him wherever he goes.
Butterfly and caterpillar puppets
These finger puppets make a great kinetic accompaniment to The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Kids can use these construction paper caterpillars to make The Very Hungry Caterpillareven more interactive by following along with their puppets.
“Mister Seahorse” window hangers
Mister Seahorse is a fantastic tale about loving dads, which makes this window hanger an absolutely perfect craft for kids to do after snuggling up with Dad and reading all about underwater life.
Eric Carle Crafts For Kids
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