Discover the magic of camouflage!
Recommended for: Grade 1
Estimated time: 15 minutes
Transform into American Robins and test your eyesight as you search for camouflaged food… caterpillars!
Materials Needed
10-15 “caterpillars” of different colors using any of the following items:
- pipe cleaners
- crayons
- scraps of paper
- colored pencils
- LEGOs
Helpful Information
- Place “caterpillars” no higher than your child’s eye level.
- Use a variety of colored “caterpillars” to show how green “caterpillars” blend into green grass and how red “caterpillars” stand out.
- Remember how many “caterpillars” you hide!
What is Camouflage?
Camouflage is how living things hide in nature. They do this by blending in with their environment based on their colors and patterns.
Activity Steps
Step One:
Show participants a “caterpillar” and explain that they can be different colors. Set up the “caterpillars” in your space by watching the video provided.
Step Two:
Slowly and quietly lead your child through the hiding spots as they keep count of how many “caterpillars” they see. Ask: How many did you see?
Step Three:
Lead your child through the space again and invite them to crawl. Ask: How many did you see?
Step Four:
Finally, invite your child to collect all of the “caterpillars”. Ask: Which colors were easier to see? Which were harder to see?
Step Five:
Introduce camouflage and consider what other creatures may be hiding around you with camouflage!
Indoor Modification
This activity can be done inside without modifications.
For Further Discovery…
Put your skills to the test by playing Camouflage-and-Seek! In this version of Hide-and-Seek, choose a hiding spot to blend in with that best matches the color of your clothing. Put on different clothes and find a new spot!