Faith Theme: On Easter we celebrate the new life of Jesus.

Book title:  The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (Philomel, 1981)

1.    Set the Environment

Invite the children to sit on a rug or carpet squares, arranged so each child can see the pictures as you read the book, but with sufficient space around them to minimize distractions. Since the story will be followed by prayer, the children might be invited to sit near the Prayer Center, arranged with items related to the faith theme. If needed, remind the children of the rules for listening to storybooks: “Everyone listens to the story and allows others time for quiet.”

2.    Introduce and Read the Book

Introduce the storybook and relate the story to the lesson:

“Today we are learning that we celebrate the new life of Jesus at Easter. Butterflies are one of the signs of new life we see in springtime that remind us of Jesus’ new life. This book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, describes how a caterpillar becomes a butterfly.”

Invite the children to listen carefully as you read the story. You might hint at the kind of reflection that will follow by indicating something that the children should listen for as you read:

“Look carefully at the pictures as we learn how a caterpillar becomes a beautiful butterfly.”

Read aloud the story.

3.    Encourage the Children to Reflect and Respond

Invite the children to reflect on the connection between the faith theme and the story. Ask one or more of the following questions:

“What did the caterpillar do before he became a butterfly?”

“What other signs of new life do you see in the springtime?”

Remember to allow enough time for the children to arrive at well-considered responses. Encourage all the children to answer each question quietly for themselves before inviting them to respond.

4.    Invite the Children to Pray

Invite the children to prepare for prayer, encouraging them to become as quiet and still as possible. Give directions such as the following:

“Be sure you have space around you to be comfortable and not distracted by anyone. Place your hands quietly in your lap. Try to keep your feet very still. Listen for the sound of your breathing.”

You might suggest that the children close their eyes for prayer.

When everyone is quiet, make a simple suggestion that connects the faith theme and the prayer:

“As we pray, let’s thank God for all the wonderful signs of new life we see in springtime.”

After a few moments of quiet, pray aloud a simple prayer:

“God, we thank you for the gift of new life. Fill us with the joy of Easter.”

Bring the time of prayer to a close with a simple prayer gesture, such as inviting the children to place their hands together as they say, “Amen. Alleluia!”