Very Hungry Caterpillar Footprint Art
A fun and engaging art activity for kids inspired by Eric Carle’s beloved caterpillar character.
Ingredients
Materials Needed
- 1 bottle Washable tempera paint (green, red, yellow, purple) Choose washable paints for easy cleanup.
- 1 sheet Large sheet of white construction paper or canvas This will be the canvas for the footprint art.
- 1 roll Paper towels or washcloths for cleanup Keep nearby for easy cleanup.
- 1 plate Plastic tray or plate for paint Use this to hold the paint.
- 1 each Aprons or old t-shirts Protect clothing from paint.
- 1 each A sponge or paintbrush (optional) For adding additional details.
Instructions
Setup
- Lay down newspaper or a plastic covering to catch any spills.
- Pour the washable tempera paint onto a plastic tray or plate, using green for the caterpillar's body and red or yellow for the head.
- Help your child put on an apron or old t-shirt to protect their clothing.
Creating the Caterpillar
- Have the child step into the green paint, ensuring their entire foot is covered.
- Instruct them to press their foot down on the construction paper, creating the caterpillar's body, making several footprints in a row.
- Clean the child's foot with a washcloth or paper towel, then repeat the process with the red or yellow paint for the caterpillar's head.
Adding Details
- Allow the footprints to dry completely before adding details or decorations with paintbrushes or sponges.
- Encourage your child to decorate their caterpillar with googly eyes and additional colors.
Notes
Ensure adult supervision during the activity, manage the mess effectively, and encourage creativity by allowing children to express themselves.