A Spoonful of Frogs
The first feature of October (and spooky season!) is here with A Spoonful of Frogs by Casey Lyall (Author), Vera Brosgol (Illustrator).
The first time I read this book, it was an instant love. The combination of the voice throughout with such a low word count, hilarious illustrations, perfect page turns, plus the surprise ending just made this a brilliant book in my eyes. My kids ask for this story OFTEN and its constant giggles every time! And while I chose to feature this book in October (AKA spooky season), there is absolutely no doubt that kids will ask for this one ALL year long.
When a witch’s favorite treat is Frog Soup, she shares with others how to make it. A pinch of salt, a few carrots and potatoes, and of course the most important ingredient… a spoonful of frogs! But, what happens when you can’t get the frogs to stay on the spoon? Will this witch complete her soup, or is there an acceptable substitute for this ingredient? ;)
After reading this story, I hope your kiddos enjoy these FREE printables below.
Have kiddos find the matching frogs by coloring the pairs the same color OR for a challenge, get out all the shades of green you can find, and color the pairs the same shade of green.
Copy and paste into a word document or download the printable here.
Have children think of their own substitute for frogs in FROG soup. They can write what they choose on the line and draw a picture.
Copy and paste into a word document or download the printable here.
Children can reflect back on the story and color all of the items that are needed to make Frog Soup.
Copy and paste into a word document or download the printable here.
Kids can fill in the blanks to finish the recipe for Frog Soup. Use word bank below to help.
Copy and paste into a word document or download the printable here.
Answer sheet for Recipe
Copy and paste into a word document or download the printable here.
As with every picture book, I also want to offer a fun hands-on activity as an extension of the book.
Well of course, we HAVE to make FROG SOUP (using its substitute ingredient, of course ;)
Having kids in the kitchen and helping with cooking/baking has SO many benefits. From science and math exposure to fine motor skills to tasting new foods, there are so many positives! Could you make a mess? Absolutely. Will you make core memories? Absolutely. So let’s make Frog Soup for this hands-on, extension activity!
Print out this recipe and have kids help cut (with adults help depending on age), add ingredients, and stir this Frog Soup! Once you get to the last ingredient, ask your kiddos, “Uh oh, where are the frogs?” Once you decide that frogs are not available (or tasty) for this frog soup, there is always the substitute ingredient! :)
While this probably won’t be the best tasting soup, allow your kids to try it if they are willing! It’s all edible! :)
Copy and paste into a word document or download the printable here.
Another addition you could do, is have the child make the list of ingredients needed for a shopping trip! Take the child/ren and have them help pick out all the items needed.
*If using this in a classroom, have all the ingredients handy and give each child one job to help make the soup. Sit in a circle (maybe around a pretend fire), and make this soup together as a class!
I hope your kiddos/students enjoy this story, A Spoonful of Frogs, the printables and hands-on activity!
Please considering purchasing this book using links above or checking it out at your local library. After reading this story, PLEASE leave a review on Amazon or Goodreads. :)
Stay tuned for more Picture Books, Printables and Play!—OH MY!
