Chariton Preschool staff recently participated in an engaging Lunch and Learn session led by GPAEA's Special Education Consultant, Paula Leach, highlighting how to bring the Creative Curriculum to life through intentional, hands-on instruction. Using The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle as the anchor text, Paula modeled how one well-planned lesson can support learning across multiple developmental domains—all while keeping young learners captivated and engaged.
From the moment she opened the book, Paula demonstrated how to foster language growth, participation, and inclusivity. She provided staff with practical strategies such as pre-teaching wait time ("This book is very big, and you are very small…") to manage group engagement, and showed how to encourage vocabulary development using prompts and cues like “but he was still…” (cue: “hungry!”).
Inclusive instruction was front and center as Paula modeled the integration of AAC tools, signs, and gestures to support students with communication challenges. She guided staff through a week-long plan that incorporated large group readings, small group retellings with story-themed manipulatives (like a creative Hungry Caterpillar Pringles can), and fine motor, social, and cognitive skill development.
What truly brought the training to life were the simple yet powerful extensions Paula shared:
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Pre-writing activities using visual story connections (helping the caterpillar reach the food with drawn lines)
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Early math skills through hands-on patterning with colorful puff balls
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Turn-taking and collaboration woven into story retells using tactile materials
She encouraged educators to build on student interest by launching author studies—leveraging the unique, recognizable visuals of Eric Carle books to provide ongoing, cohesive instructional opportunities.
Importantly, Paula demonstrated how these approaches seamlessly align with specially designed instruction (SDI). By thoughtfully planning activities and setting up dramatic play areas that reflect story themes, teachers can ensure access, engagement, and progress for all learners.
Chariton staff were highly engaged throughout the session, asking insightful questions and leaving with fresh ideas for integrating Creative Curriculum more intentionally in their classrooms. This professional learning experience is a strong example of how effective training can directly impact teaching practice—and student success.
For educators or administrators interested in learning more about implementing Creative Curriculum strategies or scheduling a similar professional learning opportunity, we invite you to connect with us. Visit gpaea.org to learn more about our early childhood supports and professional development offerings, or contact us directly—we’re here to help you bring impactful instruction to your classroom.