Do you remember the very first book you read to your child or class of children? For me, it was Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed by Eileen Christelow. The first day I brought my oldest son home from the hospital, he got to listen to this lyrical book. Fast forward five years and we are still enjoying the book today.
I created five little monkey puppets and we have used them a couple of different ways. To make your own set, just print out the FREE monkey puppets I created. Cut them out and glue each one to a large craft stick. For activity number three, you will also need to print and cut out the number word cards. Presto, you are ready to have some literacy fun.
Idea #1: ACT OUT THE STORY
Read Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed by Eileen Christelow. Then, grab the puppets and act out the story. If you are at home, play on a real bed. If playing in the classroom, use a baby bed or another makeshift bed.
Idea #2: RHYMING MONKEYS
Play a rhyming game with the kids. Say a word and have your children name five different words that rhyme with the first. Each time a word is generated, the kids can hand over one of the monkeys from their hands.
Idea #3: NUMBER WORD MATCHING
Finally, match each numbered monkey to the correct number word card. Lay each monkey on the correct card.
There you go! One set of puppets and three ways to play and build literacy skills with them.
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Heather H says
What an adorable activity for Five Little Monkeys! My monkey-loving girl adores these. Thanks for sharing with #EverythingKids.