Preschool children at the University of Missouri–St. Louis Child Development Center performed a reenactment of the iconic children’s book “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” last Thursday as the center celebrated both National Campus Children’s Centers Week and the 50th anniversary of author Eric Carle’s beloved book.

An earlier celebration of “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” planned by UCDC teachers, had to be postponed last spring because of the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. That made last week’s celebration of both the book and the week more exciting. In addition to the reenactment, children crafted Hungry Caterpillar puppets and crowns, played Caterpillar bingo and matching games, math and counting games, fine motor activities, outdoor activities and even made Hungry Caterpillar fruit salads.

This photograph was taken by UMSL photographer August Jennewein and is the latest to be featured in Eye on UMSL.