The Grouchy Ladybug Activities I like bring the story to life. The Grouchy Ladybug by Eric Carle is one of my favorite books to read during our Bugs & Insects unit. Preschoolers love this simple story about a combative ladybug who is really too afraid to fight. This book teaches so many concepts I hope I can remember them all. Time, size, ladybug diet, ladybug habitat, and emotions to name a few. This book is a must for every early childhood classroom, and a must for your bugs unit!
The Grouchy Ladybug Activities : Whole Group Discussion
I like to talk with my class about what it means to be ‘grouchy’ after reading this book. I always ask “what does it mean to be ‘grouchy?” and “What makes you ‘grouchy’?” Because children love to talk about themselves, a great conversation always ensues. I’m constantly surprised by how many kids say that nothing makes them grouchy. When I open up about what makes me grouchy…the conversation gets going and everyone opens up! Additionally, Bringing activities together with a book is fantastic for building foundations in literacy.
The Grouchy Ladybug craft
After reading the book and discussing it at length, we head to our center time. For this book I have created a literacy/art center craft that helps the kids talk about the things that make them grouchy and also create a beautiful ladybug to take home and enjoy!
Supplies needed
- plain white paper plates
- red paint & paintbrushes
- black dots cut from paper or black price stickers
- 4 inch black circles cut from construction paper
- Circle template with “I feel grouchy when…” printed inside. (included in my lesson plan, or make your own in Word or Powerpoint)
- glue
- google eyes
- red glitter (optional)
In small group centers, let children paint the entire plate red. While they are painting, ask each child what makes them grouchy and write their statement sin the circle. The circle will be glued on the underside of the ladybug when it is finished. Add the black dots to the wet paint, sprinkle a bit of glitter if desired, add the eyes to the head and the head to the body.
This is a class favorite year after year!
If you like this craft and want to simplify your bugs and insects unit click the link below for a fantastic complete 5-day Bugs & Insects Lesson Plan!
All About Bugs & Insects 5-Day Lesson Plan for Preschool, PreK, K & HomeschoolEnjoy!
